CHAPTER 30 / Reverberant
March 2nd, 2010
Dear Yukari,
Sometimes I wonder about what our future would have been like. How many kids would we have had? Would you have let me name our kids the ones that we had talked about so long ago? Before we had even started dating? All of that feels so far away from me now…almost as if it had happened to someone else. Now, I am trying to come to some sort of peace within myself. That is not something that is easily done. I mean it isn't normal for someone our age to have to come to terms with the end of their life.
There was another person I knew…that had died before we made it to the end. His name was Kamiki Akinari…I knew he was sick and that he wasn't long for this world. Still there was a story he wanted to write before he passed on. So I helped him. Mostly all I did was listen to him but he always thanked me for my feedback of the story. A story about a pink alligator. I wonder if his story will be published or pick up in popularity.
His death…was one that I couldn't do anything for…he was born sickly and with a short time on this planet. Yet he had found a reason to live all the way until the end. His Mother told me that he had thanked her for giving birth to him…and for his time on this world. Sometimes I wonder…if it is because human lives are limited that we are able to place such importance on them. And how does someone come to peace with their own death?
I have, in a way, come to peace with the knowledge that I'm going to die…or at least no longer exist in a fashion that people would know. Even now I can feel the Seal pulling me towards it…and the only thing I can think about is finishing this journal…so that a complete record of our struggle against 'The Fall' will be here. So that you and all of SEES knows the full truth…so that we can never forget the struggles we faced. And so that you all know, why I had to die. It was my choice…and it was the only thing I could do…for you…and for everyone else. I would do anything to protect you and the world we live on. This just happened to be the price that I had to pay.
I'm sorry I can't be there for you in the future. But I have faith in you…and the strength that you possess. I know that you'll be fine. I love you with all my heart and soul.
Love Always,
Arisato Minato
December 30th, 2009 / Evening
Minato was relaxed on the couch in the dorm's lounge with Yukari lying down with her head on his lap. She was reading a book while they both waited for the arrival of a certain individual. Aigis was returning tonight. It had been a long time since Aigis had to be sent to a facility capable of repairing her. It had been nearly a month since then. Not that Minato was glad that she had to be taken so far away to be fixed. It would have been nice to actually have her closer...Mitsuru was essentially the head of the Kirijo Group...and Aigis' room had more or less been converted to accommodate her...so it wasn't like it would have been difficult to bring tools needed to fix her here. Maybe he was just irritated at why she had been damaged to begin with. Still...Ryoji had only just remembered his purpose and had merely defended himself...he understood that. But Aigis had known the danger that Ryoji had been from the beginning...the initial damage she had ten years ago must have damaged her memory unit so she had forgotten the fight or the details. But there had still been an impression there. Minato shook his head and tried to forget that for now.
Christmas had passed, and his time had spent entirely with Yukari. Christmas Eve was going to be a night he would always remember. He had gone out to dinner and seen a movie with her. All pretty normal stuff. They had even gone to the Mall and seen the Christmas decorations that had been put up. It was such a normal evening…that for a small amount of time they were able to forget everything else and just be a couple.
Then…after returning to the dorm…Yukari came to Minato's room…and they spent the night together, nothing like you would think though. It was just time he could spend forgetting about what loomed behind him, and just being next to her was all he wanted. He didn't have nightmares or rough sleep while she was with him. If anything the only time he seemed to sleep was when he was with her at night. It was a comfort he wished he could get used to. But there were rules and regulations they should be following…but in the grand scheme of things it didn't feel like it mattered. For those brief moments in time when they were together…there was nothing else. He could get so lost in Yukari…her fragrance, her touch…and that smile that he loved so much. All of that…for that time he felt he could claim her all for himself. It was one of the times he felt incredibly selfish…but he just couldn't help himself around Yukari.
The whole situation had gotten to him more than he had realized. It wasn't like he had ever had to think about what decision he was going to make. However…that didn't mean the situation wasn't any less stressful than before. Only that he knew what path he wanted to take…but the obstacles and trials that would be on that path…were still complete unknowns. Strega was still out there…planning something, although he didn't have a clue as to what that would be. Minato couldn't even figure out what the point of breaking Chidori out had done for them other than revealing the fact that they were still around. It would have been smarter to take her and go into hiding. That was his thought on the matter at least. No if anything he might have wanted to do that...but Chidori had been defiant and wanted to settle things with Junpei...or rather her feelings for him. Only for her to realize the truth about what she felt too late.
Yukari sat up from my lap as the front door to the dorm opened. I glanced over with her and saw the familiar figure of Aigis walking in. Mitsuru coming in behind her. Everyone leaped out of their seats and came over to welcome the mechanical maiden back. Minato calmly got up after Yukari and put his hands in his pockets as he walked over behind her.
"I'm back, everyone. Sorry to have worried you all," Aigis said with a slight bow.
"Man, I'm glad to see you. I was getting nervous," Junpei was the first to speak.
"Me too. I was fearing the worst…" Fuuka admitted.
Aigis was somewhat perplexed by that statement, "I'm a machine, so I can be rebuilt. Even if I am completely destroyed, the programming data necessary to recreate me would still exist." Leave it to a robot to somehow find a way to sound like they are being pessimistic about their existence but yet only stating a fact.
"Hey…Don't talk about yourself like that," Yukari quickly said. Obviously channeling the mutual disagreement with what Aigis had just said. Minato could hardly blame Aigis for how she talked about herself…she wasn't 'wrong' by the simplistic meaning of the word…but it has to say something when everyone around you actually 'forgets' that you aren't human.
"They had said another week would be required for a complete recovery, but I had the process expedited. Tomorrow is New Year's Eve, after all," Mitsuru offered a quick explanation.
"I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused. Mitsuru-san visited me at the lab and told me everything. That must have been difficult for you all to hear," Aigis then turned her attention solely to Minato and took a few steps towards him and observed his body as if scanning him for abnormalities. "Have you been well…? I mean…considering the circumstances…" She paused looking unsure of what to say. Minato knew why.
If Minato was going to be honest…he wasn't sure how he felt. It wasn't like Aigis was doing something wrong…and her actions stopped the world from ending back then. "Ten years ago…the circumstances were different…and you had a directive that had to be carried out. My life was altered because my parents died and 'Death' was sealed within my body. You did what you had to…what was the only option available to you."
"But…If I hadn't done that to you, you wouldn't be suffering like this…" Aigis genuine concern caught Minato off guard. How could he ever think he could be angry at Aigis?
"I doubt Ryoji was actually capable of being defeated back then. The only difference now was that because of your actions we have a choice…if you want to look at it a different way…the only reason we are still alive is because of you. And while all it might have done is push back the time a bit…it still gave all of us time to grow up and live our lives to be able to be here today. Despite knowing that it was that battle that killed my parents…I can't get angry at you or even Ryoji," Minato sighed feeling the entirety of SEES looking at him. "In the end it was still my choice that brought me back to this place, not anything you or anyone else did."
"So you have made your choice?" Aigis asked.
"There was never a choice for me. I knew what I was going to do from the beginning. I swore I would see this to the end…and I told Shinjiro-senpai that I would find a way to protect everyone. And I sure as hell can't do that if I just turn a blind eye to everything," Minato stated although he had expressed his feelings before…this time all of SEES seemed to feel the same way as he did.
"I knew you would say that," Aigis hung her head. "So it would be a waste to ask you to kill Ryoji…that I would prefer for all of you to have your memories erased so that you don't have to suffer anymore. At least in your final days you could be happy."
Minato didn't say anything…the rest of SEES seemed to be shocked. Out of everyone…you would figure that Aigis would have no qualms about fighting Nyx. But seeing the conflicting expression and sadness in Aigis' eyes made Minato pause for a moment. It was because of something more than that…it was an inherent contradiction between her programming and the reality of Ryoji and Nyx. Shadows…that can't be defeated…and Aigis who was created specifically to annihilate them. So although her decision was filled with emotion…there was a cold logic to it that was underneath it. She had calculated the possible outcomes…and this…to her…seemed like the best path to take…so she would not have to see everyone suffer. So she could see them die with smiles instead of anguish…but that was only from what they were told. None of them knew exactly what it was they would be facing. And there was no knowing what kind of chance they actually had of defeating Nyx.
"I know what this is about," Minato spoke and stepping towards Aigis. "You're conflicted because we are deciding to go against a foe that supposedly can't be defeated…that based on the data we have, we have no choice. So the easiest and best option that can be calculated is us killing Ryoji and eliminating our memories of the Dark Hour."
Aigis nodded and looked away from Minato, "Why did I come back here? My mission is to protect humanity from Shadows. But now, I know I can't defeat them. So then…why am I here? I'm useless…and I can't even shed a tear for you all!"
"Oh, Aigis," Fuuka wanted to soothe Aigis but that was hardly what needed to happen at the moment.
"Why fight, when you know you cannot win? What is the purpose of that? Why are you wasting your lives?" Aigis was confused. She couldn't understand how we could move forward against an unbeatable opponent. It was understandable to Minato,, which meant this was also an important moment for Aigis.
"We're not wasting our lives. We're just planning for the future. Right, Ken?" Akihiko said.
Ken nodded in confirmation, "Right."
"I don't understand," Aigis sighed looking back to Minato. "It must be because I don't possess a life."
"Is that really what you think?" Minato's eyebrow furrowed. Maybe she still didn't understand what it meant to have a Persona.
Junpei chuckled a bit, "This has nothing to do with having a life."
"I'm a machine, a machine that was created to protect humans from Shadows. But, I can't fulfill that mission with the powers I was given... So then, what is my purpose now? Could someone please tell me?" Aigis was desperate for some answers…but really there was no clear answer. The Kirijo Group scientist that developed the Mechanical Maidens must have been rather dense…or forgot how to live themselves. A machine that can use a Persona…that means in order for them to be able to hold a Persona they would need the capacity to have emotions…to think for themselves. To develop an ego.
Because of the nature of being a machine…there were inherent flaws or rather…contradictions that were likely to occur. Anything with a heart would eventually seek comfort…would want to cry or wish for people to be happy and to be happy themselves. Minato could only begin to imagine the types of problems Aigis would have to face as she went through the rest of her life.
Junpei…was the one to answer Aigis. "We don't know the answer, Aigis. The only one that can tell you what your purpose is, is you. That's why we're having such a hard time making our decision. There's no easy answer. But as long as we're alive, we have to do something. When we see others hurting, we want to help them. So that's our purpose."
"We've fought for our lives and innocent people all this time so far. But now the consequences are clearly defined for us. And when you are told…all options lead to death…well it sure as hell isn't normal to have to decide how you are going to die. And we may decide our purpose specifically in denial to that fact. But it is still our choice and our lives to make that our purpose," Minato elaborated.
Aigis looked around, "Can finding one's purpose really be so simple…?"
"Watching you, Aigis. I come to realize that I want to protect you. I don't want to forget about you," Fuuka said as she walked towards Aigis.
"Fuuka-san…" Aigis was on the cusp of making a realization of her own. She needed more of a push.
"There are times when you will lose sight of your goal, and you will have to search for it. But if you can't find it again, then you must set your heart on a new goal. To truly live, you will need to make changes sometimes," Mitsuru spoke softly from Aigis' side.
"Do you think I can do that? Do you think I can change?" Aigis looked to Mitsuru.
Minato couldn't help but chuckle a bit and with it got him an inquisitive look from Aigis. "Do you believe you haven't changed since we first met you, Aigis?"
"You've changed greatly already, Aigis," Mitsuru supplemented with a smile. "Haven't you noticed? In fact, you're changing even as we speak."
Aigis took a moment to look at everyone in SEES, to which she was given smiles and affirmation that they all thought the same thing about her. This seemed to surprise her but then a subtle change occurred…most likely in her thoughts of the situation. Minato could only grin as Aigis began to talk.
"I know what my purpose is…I'm a machine who is here to 'live'. And the one who has given me this purpose is…me." Aigis nodded with conviction. "This is the promise I've made to myself. I don't know how I will do it…but I guess that is a part of living too. Will you all allow me to join with you all?"
"Of course!" Junpei grinned. "You've always been one of us."
"Thank you! I will be with you all. No matter what happens," Aigis smiled and then they all saw it. Her persona changed. Palladion turned into another Persona. "…Athena."
"This is all the proof you need, Aigis," Minato said as her new Persona faded back into her mind. "A Persona is a representation of the psyche…as you grow and face new challenges, your heart and mind can become stronger so you can face them. The evolution of your Persona is proof of not only your capacity to change but your ability to live."
"I have all of you to thank for this," Aigis said giving a bow to everyone.
With that they would all be ready to give their answer tomorrow to Ryoji. And Minato was not surprised by what they all wanted…they would look straight at death and defy it. Nyx was not something that could be killed if what Ryoji said was to be believed. Minato had to wonder about that though…even if something could not be killed…then what had stopped Nyx from this before? Maybe there was something that kept The Fall at bay…something that they didn't know about? Mitsuru's Grandfather had merely expedited the process…forcing The Fall to come much sooner than it was supposed to. If it was ever intended to happen to begin with.
Minato still had many questions…but the only way to find those answers was to face it head on. And that was what he intended to do…and the first step to doing that would happen tomorrow when Ryoji arrived to get their decision.
December 31st, 2009 / Evening
Minato opened the front door of the dormitory and let Ryoji in. The atmosphere was definitely tense but perhaps not in the way it had been in the past. All of SEES had made their decision. All that was really left was to deliver that decision to Ryoji. And it was one that Ryoji would not agree with.
"Hey, long time no see. Midnight is just around the corner," Ryoji took a moment to take a deep breath and look around at everyone. He smiled but something about it made Minato uncomfortable. "At midnight, I will change from this form into something unrecognizable. So, have you all reached a decision?" Everyone gave him a nod as he took a couple steps away from them and towards the stairs of the dorm. "I'll be waiting in Minato's room until midnight. Come see me when you have your answer."
He took a few more steps then stopped turning back to SEES. "Oh and one more thing. Don't let the fact that you have to kill me influence your decision. As I said before, I'm going to disappear anyways. I won't feel any pain by 'dying'. So there is no need to worry about me." He let his words sink in. "I'll be waiting."
With that Ryoji went up the stairs where Minato could only assume he had gone to his room. It was fitting in a way…it was the place he had gotten to know Ryoji…or rather Pharos. Still to think that it would feel somewhat…inconsequential in the end. What about his relationship with him? He had a social link with him…didn't that have any weight in all of this? Was there really only one way to go through this?
"Has your decision remained the same, Arisato?" Mitsuru's voice brought him back to the eyes of the rest of SEES.
"There is no right or wrong answer here. When both decisions net the same outcome you will naturally want to consider which is the best choice to make. And something like this…both of them have their appeal. After all…all of you considered both options, didn't you?" Minato turned meeting the eyes of his friends and comrades.
"It wasn't an easy choice to make," Fuuka admitted.
"Of course it wasn't," Minato walked over to the front window and looked out into the street. "It isn't natural to know when you will die. But Ryoji is only looking at one aspect of this knowledge. Normal people probably would live in fear as the days grew closer to the promised day. But we're different. We have Persona, a means by which we have fought against horrors that no normal person would be able to face. So even if it is something we can't win…even if at the end of this path all that awaits us is death…" Minato turned back to the others. "It is no different than what we have done so far. Every fight we had was never ensured that we would come back. And we have lost some people along the way."
"That is why I choose to fight. Shinji would never forgive me if I turned away now," Akihiko stated.
"I won't turn away now…not after coming so far to learn the truth about my Father's death," Yukari added.
"Even if this is a fight unlike the ones that have come before it. And maybe there is no hope in winning, but that is based on what Ryoji has said. And the only way we can know for sure is to face it head on," Minato said with a slight smile.
"Then, we are all in agreement?" Mitsuru asked for one last chance for discussion about this topic.
"I wouldn't be here if I wasn't on board," Junpei said.
"I'm with the rest of you," Fuuka added.
"I have made my decision as well," Aigis confirmed.
Even Koromaru added a bark of confirmation in response.
"I guess all that is left is to let him know," Minato said looking up to the staircase.
"We'll wait for you," Yukari was at Minato's side and kissed his cheek. "I know talking to him about this will be hard for you."
"He'll try and change my mind you know. In the confines of my room he is trying to negate what all of you had decided. In the end it's because he thinks he knows what is best for us," Minato sighed heavily. "But he is also part of the reason I need to see this through to the end. Telling me to just forget everything is like saying that our struggles and friendships we forged meant nothing."
"I love you, Minato. No matter what happens," Yukari said in a whisper before pulling away from him.
Minato took a few steps and then looked back at SEES, "I'll be back shortly."
They all nodded and sent him off with smiles as Minato began his way up the familiar stairs and towards his room. They all trusted him with their decision and resolve. In order to fight a battle that can't be won…they had to be united in their resolve…and determined that no matter what happened they would press forward. It was not something that could be taken lightly. Minato was well aware of what could happen…that despite their struggles they would all die anyway. But Minato had made his own promise some time ago to his Senpai. Aragaki Shinji…he had told him during his last moments that he would find a way…a way where no one else would have to die. That he would do anything to protect them all. Minato was more than driven now to fulfill that promise. Maybe more so than he had been when he had made it.
Minato only hesitated at the door of his room for a moment before opening the door and entering.
Ryoji greeted him with a smile and was sitting on his bed, "Hey. It's been a long time since we talked like this in your room. Although back then, I didn't appear in this form, and I wasn't known by this name."
"Well times and circumstances have certainly changed since then," Minato said as he closed his door and walked in towards Ryoji.
"They certainly have," Ryoji said as he studied Minato's face for a moment. "Don't tell me you've all decided to let me live... You're all going to risk your lives on a battle you can't win. But, you're the only one here right now, so...I'll say this one more time. If you kill me, Tartarus, the Dark Hour, and your memories of the battles will all disappear. Tomorrow, you'll wake up a normal high-school student. You'll be able to live in peace until the moment of the Fall. But if you let me live, you'll spend every waking moment until that day in fear of your inevitable death. Nyx cannot be defeated... It's useless to fight her."
Minato wasn't fazed by hearing all of this again. Ryoji got to his feet and took a couple steps towards Minato.
"Are you still thinking? Or have you made up your mind?" Ryoji asked.
"I would like to think you know me enough that you wouldn't even have to ask," Minato stated simply.
"So nothing I say will change your mind then?" Ryoji looked like he wasn't surprised but looked like he hoped that Minato had changed his mind.
"After all the ordeals we went through to get to this point, do you think I would give up now?" Minato asked him.
"But this is a battle you cannot win! You will only be waiting for death," Ryoji was pleading. "I didn't want to show you this…but I have no choice." Ryoji then took a form that was rather familiar to Minato. The form of Thanatos…the same form that Minato's Ulitimate form of the Death Social Link Persona was. "See...? I'm not human. I will bring death to this world until I am finally satiated. Do not hesitate to kill me. ...I want you to think about this carefully. Is facing Nyx really the best decision...? Right now, you are all confused by the truth. But some things in this world cannot be changed. You do not understand this yet. Memories are ambiguous... Old ones can be replaced with new ones, creating a new reality. Don't you want to end all your friends' pain and suffering? ...It's up to you. You're the only one who can make this decision. Now, this is your last chance. Tell me your answer..."
"Ryoji…you are asking me to betray my friends…to betray even you," Minato said looking at the form of Thanatos. "You want me to forget you? The friendship that we have? And to forget all of that is to forget about so much about my relationship with Yukari. I am not going to run away…I am not going to turn away from the truth to just have a few more 'good days'. All of that would be a lie…nothing more than borrowed time that would only delay the end. If it is going to end…then I want to face it head on. And you're right, I don't know what it means to face Nyx. And it might be like you say…a hopeless cause. Still I have to fight til the end. Because Ryoji I think there is something that you don't understand."
Ryoji reverted from his form as Thanatos and back to his human form. He blinked a couple times and gave Minato a confused look. "Something I don't understand?"
"Even if I died facing an enemy that cannot be beaten…I can die without regret. I did everything I could…tried every option available to me," Minato then grinned. "I have an idea. How about a bet?"
"A bet?" Ryoji almost cracked a smile.
"That's right. If I find a way to stop The Fall. Then you owe me a month's worth of karaoke sessions," Minato held out his hand.
Ryoji then started laughing, "Minato…how could I ever question your resolve when you look at it like this? I knew it was pointless to try and convince you otherwise but you know why I did."
"We're friends, Ryoji. You just don't want to see me suffer. I get that. But it goes both ways. Now do you agree to the bet or not?" Minato moved his hand towards Ryoji once more.
"Alright, I agree. What do I get if I win?" Ryoji chuckled.
"Bragging rights? I mean I'll be dead if you win," Minato laughed.
"Oh…so the only one that has anything here to gain is you huh?" Ryoji shared a laugh with Minato. "This is one bet that I hope that I lose."
"So I guess all that is left is figuring out how we're supposed to face Nyx," Minato said.
"Well let's head back to the lounge, I can tell you all how to confront Nyx," Ryoji said as he eased his laughter.
The two headed back down the stairs and to where SEES was waiting for them.
"Yo! What's up, Ryoji?" Junpei asked.
Ryoji simply shook his head, "I should not be surprised with your decisions. Especially Minato's but I had hoped all of you would not have to face this. Still I cannot help but be impressed by all of your resolves. Anyway I must make this quick as midnight is quickly approaching." He took a deep breath and then began. "She will be at Tartarus. You all must reach the top of the Tower before the promised day."
"When is the promised day?" Yukari was quick to ask.
"Exactly one month from tomorrow," Ryoji answered. "January 31st, 2010. Nyx will descend to Tartarus…and the world will end. If you go to the top of Tartarus on that day, you'll be able to face her. The Tower exists for the purpose of her coming. As the appriser, I usher Nyx into this world…and Tartarus welcomes her arrival."
"The tower exists for the purpose of Nyx's coming…that's why it is called the 'tower of demise'. So if we reach the top, we can fight Nyx?" Akihiko more or less wanted to confirm what was said.
"Yes, but remember…From today, you will be fighting against eternal despair. Like I've said so many times before, Nyx cannot be defeated. When you face her, you will finally understand this truth. And then you will finally realize what it is you are trying to stand against," Ryoji was looking at Minato for the last part of what he said.
"…We understand. There's no need to keep telling us. January 31st…we won't forget that date," Mitsuru said.
Ryoji turned away from SEES, "Well I'll be going on ahead of you. I want to leave while I am still in this form."
"Ryoji-kun," Fuuka seemed unsure of what to say.
Minato walked with Ryoji to the door. Ryoji stopped and looked back at Aigis, "Aigis…I'm sorry for all the pain and suffering I put you through."
"I won't forget that you were my enemy…and my friend," Aigis said.
Ryoji smiled sadly as he turned back towards the door, "Thank you. This will probably be the last time I see you all like this. But…" he looked back one last time at all of SEES. "I'll always be watching over you…well, goodbye."
Minato opened the front door for Ryoji and then spoke one last time without looking back, "Best wishes in the coming year. That's what you say on New Year's Eve, right?" Ryoji looked over at Minato.
"I will find a different way for this to end," Minato said.
"If anyone has that potential, it is you. Goodbye, Minato," Ryoji then walked out of the dormitory and Minato closed the door behind him.
Minato could feel a change in himself. And he wasn't referring to the growth in social links he had made with SEES tonight. He knew that there had to be another option. Social Links…Persona…and his ability to hold so many within himself…this had to be what it was building towards…he would need that power in order to make that change…to avert what Ryoji was sure was something that could not be changed. A fool's errand. Well Minato was a Fool and he didn't know how to give up. He would find it…the other choice…the other option so that all of his friends and loved ones would be able to see February, March and the many months and years beyond that.
January 1st, 2010 / Daytime
New Year's Day…well, it had certainly been one of the most important New Year's Eve's he had ever experienced at the very least. It isn't like you vow to save the world as your New Year's Resolution every year. Yet that had been exactly what Minato had more or less done. He had done it with a simple bet. Which now that he thought about it…he had another bet that he needed to collect on. And today would be a pretty good day to do so.
The girls had gone ahead to the shrine so all of the guys were now on their way to meet with them. Minato stifled a yawn as they walked up the steps to the shrine and saw the many stalls that were set up. It was a little horrifying in a way…they knew that there was a lot at stake…that the people here could be celebrating the last New Year…that there could be no more than this. Yet when faced with something like that…these kind of celebrations were the most important. At least that was how Minato thought of it.
"Happy New Year! Let's all do our very best this year!" Yukari emerged and was at Minato's side at a moment and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Hey, you guys are late. We were about to leave."
"Yes because I've been known to be a morning person," Minato muttered sarcastically. "You know you complained about how hard it is to put on a kimono and yet you all got up so early to put them on and come here. What's the deal?"
All the girls did look nervous when Minato pointed this out. All of them were in a kimono…and all of them looked really good in them. Minato would admit that much. But he was suspicious of their motivations for coming here so early. Still it was a good change of pace and it wasn't that hard to find out their motivations. But the fact that it could be their last New Year was probably a deciding factor at this moment.
"Happy New Year! …Hm? What's the matter, Iori?" Mitsuru asked and that is when Minato noticed the major eyes Junpei was giving all the girls.
"Mitsuru-senpai…You look hot…I, um…heh…I mean…" Junpei was stumbling over his speech.
"Stop staring at me," Mitsuru for once look embarrassed.
"Junpei…are you really going to do this now?" Minato groaned.
"Um…I've never worn a kimono before…Does my sash look okay?" Fuuka asked.
"Fuuka…You look…Wow!" Junpei's thoughts were nowhere near being coherent to understand. Unless you knew Junpei enough to realize what he was thinking about.
"You look good, Yamagishi. Just ignore Junpei," Minato quickly stepped in.
"This traditional clothing is quite interesting. However, it's quite difficult to move in," Aigis said as she was looking over her own kimono.
"Well they weren't designed to be easy to move in," Minato commented. He looked over at Yukari and took a moment to take in her appearance. No, it certainly wasn't every day that he got to see her look like this. The time it took to dress and the attention to detail while wearing a kimono gave a certain appeal that was maybe hard to describe. Maybe it was just because he wanted to think that while she put it on she was thinking about him in some small way. And knowing her…she probably did. Still the overall red with the pink flower design made her seem to glow more than usual. Or maybe that was just Minato's biased opinion showing through. "Yukari, you look beautiful."
Yukari blushed in response but Minato could see the smile she could not hide show on her face. "You…really think so?"
"Yes, as a matter of fact, I'm gonna have to pluck Junpei's eyes out if he doesn't stop stealing looks at you," Minato growled with a side glance at Junpei.
"Alright, that's enough," Akihiko stepped in. "The girls look great, can we just leave it at that?"
"In that case let's move on to the next order of business," Minato cleared his throat and got all their attention. Probably thinking he was going to announce some sort of official statement. But no…he had other intentions. "There have been a lot of things going on, but you guys don't seriously think I would forget, did you?"
All of SEES had questioning looks on their faces. "What are you talking about, Arisato?" Mitsuru was the first to ask.
"Oh I see…trying to claim you don't remember huh? That's fine, I guess I can remind you all of a little wager that we had not too long ago," Minato grinned as he saw realizations cross all their faces. "A wager about the Dark Hour."
"You don't mean…" Fuuka started.
"That's right!" Minato interrupted. "Today is the day you all pay up. We are going to karaoke!"
There was utter silence among the members of SEES as they all stared at him. He simply looked back with a look that stated one thing. He wasn't going to let any of them back out. Then Junpei suddenly was grinning as well.
"Hell yeah! Let's do it," Junpei's sudden change somewhat concerned Minato.
"Well it was a fair wager and I didn't speak against it either," Mitsuru sighed. "Alright, Arisato. Looks like out plans have been made then."
"Wait are we going right now? Shouldn't we go back and change?" Fuuka was hesitant.
"I don't think it's a problem. We never get to dress up like this normally," Yukari seemed like she was looking for a reason to stay dressed in her kimono just a while longer.
"Aren't you guys cold?" Ken suddenly asked.
"A little, but I love this time of year," Yukari answered with a smile…but Minato was considered by the origin of that question.
"That isn't what I meant. Junpei-kun said that you guys aren't wearing anything underneath your kimonos," Ken said blankly.
"He said WHAT…?" Yukari's voice got loud pretty quickly and all Minato could do was face palm as Junpei got a deserved stomp on his foot from Yukari.
"Ow! Ken you aren't supposed to mention that," Junpei fell backwards to the ground and grabbed his foot. "God, that hurts."
"Serves you right," Yukari looked like that wasn't where she wanted to leave the punishment off at.
"Ken, what Junpei told you is actually based off traditional kimono wear in our history. Specifically how it was traditionally worn by women," Minato said as he walked up to the younger kid. "In that time, women were expected to be subservient to men…specifically to the Lords."
"But what does that have to do with not wearing any underwear?" Ken asked.
Minato scratched the back of his head, "It was believed that wearing undergarments besides what comprises a kimono brought unattractive lines or creases to it. And argued that because of the way kimono's are that women don't really need to have them on and it increases their sex appeal if they don't."
"So it's so they look better?" Ken asked inquisitively.
"That's debatable," Minato shrugged. "I find it more than likely that the Lords just wanted to believe they had nothing on underneath it. Well supposedly."
"Why would they do that?" Ken was really interested in this topic.
"Because men are perverts," Yukari supplied.
Minato shook his head, "Yeah I think that about covers it." Never mind the fact that one of the actual reasons is that Lords believe that women in their house should be ready to 'serve' their Lord at all times.
"So are you a pervert, Senpai?" Ken made the logical question.
Several other members of SEES started laughing. Minato just gave a smile, "Let me counter that with a question. Have you ever thought about a girl you like?"
"A girl I like?" Ken actually seriously thought about the question for a moment. "I don't think I really have someone like that."
"Then I'm not sure you can understand the answer quite yet. It's a part of human nature…thoughts that will occur before you even realize it. That isn't what makes you a pervert…or gets you labeled as one," Minato turned to Yukari for a moment before looking back at Ken. "Your feelings and actions to the people around you determine how you are perceived…and just because you have thoughts like that, doesn't mean you should be ashamed of it…just watch your words. Basically don't be like Junpei." One could only fight nature so much. Just because you wouldn't act on them, doesn't stop impulses of attraction from happening. Even if you are in a relationship...the biggest deciding fact...just like everything else in life...was choice.
"Hey! I resent that," Junpei said finally getting to his feet.
"Says the person who can't keep his thoughts of girls in his own head," Minato noted dryly as he looked over at him. "Always consider what your words will do to the ones around you. Respect and caring for others goes a long way. The choices you make of what actions you will take will always carry weight."
"You sure know a lot, Senpai," Ken smiled.
Minato smiled himself, but it was a bit more hallow this time, "Sometimes there are words that you say that can never be taken back. That is why you should always be mindful of your words." More than a couple of members of SEES saw the change in Minato's demeanor. He turned away, "Enough about that, it's time to do karaoke! And each of you has to do a minimum of two songs!"
"Yuka-tan, your boyfriend is a real slave driver," Junpei muttered but seemed somewhat amused.
"Shut up, it'll be fun. Come on everyone!" Yukari smiled and urged everyone to follow after Minato.
Minato was hardly surprised when they arrived and Mitsuru had easily gotten them a room despite how busy the place seemed to be. They got a private room and booked it for a few hours. Everyone, save for Junpei, Minato and Yukari, seemed hesitant on what they were doing. Mitsuru had simply never been to one before and was asking Minato on if there was a certain etiquette she needed to be aware of. Minato and Yukari laughed and told her to just have fun and let loose for once. Being Mitsuru she got hung up on exactly what it meant to 'let loose' and spent most of the time thinking about it.
Minato and Yukari started it off with a duet and then one by one got the others to come up and sing with them. Junpei needed to motivation and, to much surprise, to everyone he wasn't too bad. He could certainly carry a tune, though most of them said Minato was the better singer of the two. Junpei wasn't too happy about that comparison but when the two of them did a song together it brought the atmosphere back to what it was before.
"Okay enough of that. Who is next?" Minato looked as a few members of SEES were trying to hide themselves buy supposedly looking over the options. "What about you Korijo-san?"
"Me?" her face went flush. "I...honestly I don't listen to much music like this that has lyrics...I..."
"Umm...I'll go next..." Fuuka said softly.
"Ooh, what you pick, Fuuka?" Yukari asked helping the girl to her feet.
Minato moved to sit next to Mitsuru and then looked past her to Akihiko, "How about doing a duet with Akihiko this time? You seemed to have fun singing with Yukari a few minutes ago."
"That's fine with me. I have an idea as to what to pick," Akihiko didn't need much prompting and leaned in to Mitsuru and showing her what their options were and briefly discussing the style of the songs. Minato just sat back as he watched Fuuka and Yukari singing together. Despite the progress Fuuka had made and how more comfortable she was with the team, she still had moments she wasn't comfortable with. But he could see it in her...and everyone present...they knew how important this kind of moment was. How the dangers they would be facing could be the last they ever face together...or even the last thing they do while they are alive. Even Aigis...who claimed to be only machine...was smiling.
Soon they had all sung a couple songs…or more. They had to get an extension twice as they kept going. After a few rounds of drinks and singing…smiles could be seen on all of SEES as they continued on to their karaoke session. But it wasn't long before it was time for them to go.
It was a somewhat quiet walk back to the dormitory before Minato broke the silence. It was time to address the anxiety that the whole team was facing in their minds, "The world will never know what we do. Will never know about the dangers of Shadows and the Dark Hour. It's a place of desolation and fear that threatens to end the world as it is. Yet we weren't the only ones smiling today. There are still plenty of people that choose to live and people that choose to smile when they could easily give up. This is why we have to fight…why we have to work together to reach the top of the tower. The Tower of Demise. This isn't a battle that we started…but it is one they we have all decided was ours to fight. But we don't know what we are going to face…we don't know exactly what Nyx is. So even if it is a fight we cannot win. I want all of you to remember why we're fighting. We will aim for victory no matter how grim it gets. This battle isn't just for us…it has never been about us. It is about the future…our children…and our children's children will not come to be if we don't win. So that eventually people can enjoy life just as we did today for as long as they live. And live long lives at that. I will do anything to make it a reality. But I know I can't do it without all of you."
"I will always be with you, Minato," Yukari said taking his hand.
"I will fight at your side, no matter what the outcome," Mitsuru added.
"It will be our hardest and best fight yet. Damn right I'm going to be there with you," Akihiko grinned.
"I don't want to see the world end…to see so many futures taken away. You can count on me," Fuuka added.
"You know I'm down," Junpei did a fist pump.
"And I will do my best to protect you…so that we can all see the future together," Aigis said.
Minato smiled as they arrived at the dormitory and made their way inside. "I'll be counting on all of you." SEES resolve was strengthened today...and regardless of what they might face from here on out...he knew he would trust any one of them with his life. Something they would all have to do if they were going to make it through this. And one way or another, Minato would ensure that they did.
January 12th, 2010 / Evening
Things had moved into an odd rhythm for all of SEES. They had made significant progress on Tartarus and Minato felt that they were really close to reaching the top of the tower. And SEES attitudes and motivation only seemed to get better as they went along. Not to mention Minato had finished many of his Social Links and even started a new one with Aigis. So he had been spending time with the only three that he had social links with outside of SEES activities. And that was Aigis, Mitsuru and Yukari. He had met and gotten close to so many people. Overall he had gotten 21 different social links and only 3 of them weren't maxed…Aeon…which was Aigis, Empress…which was Mitsuru and last was Lovers…Yukari.
It seemed to come so natural with other people…to mature their relationship to a point that it reaches its maximum rank. He wasn't sure how he got to that point or how he knew when something was maxed but he just did. It was something he didn't have a lot of time to contemplate about. Well there was also the Judgment social link that had to do with SEES…but it got closer to being finished as they approached the top of the tower…that growth was directly linked with the fight against Nyx. He would probably max it before the final confrontation…giving him time to create its ultimate Persona.
What concerned him a little was his link with Yukari…compared to others he was much closer to Yukari…trusted her and she trusted him. She had reconciled with her Mother and things were going well. But he could feel something was missing…one final thing that was in the way of the social link being maxed…and while he hated to think of his relationship with Yukari in such a way…he needed to ensure he had all of that power available…so that he had as many options as possible. So that he could protect her and everyone else. So that maybe he could find…that last option that was hiding from him. He knew there had to be another option…something no one had thought of.
Minato, lost in his thoughts, walked into the dormitory and nearly walked right into other members of SEES.
"Whoa, Minato. Good timing. We're all going to Hagakure. Wanna come?" Junpei asked.
Yukari was standing there and approached Minato's side. His thoughts wandered back to social links for a moment before looking around, "Just us? Where is Yamagishi or Kirijo? Or Ken for that matter…"
"There busy tonight. I think Yamagishi went home to have dinner with her parents and Mitsuru is stuck dealing with Kirijo Group business," Akihiko supplied. "Come on, it's on me tonight."
"If you say so," Minato shrugged as he turned back around as they all headed to the Iwatodai strip mall that was close by to the dorm and also where Hagakure was.
"Everything okay?" Yukari had already noticed that something was on Minato's mind. He wasn't surprised by that…she knew him better than anyone else…knew his habits…his thought patterns…it was hard to believe that they had only known each other for only few months…and there was still a couple months away from being able to say a year. It felt like he had known her for so much longer though…and he could never realize why. Maybe it was just a testament to how well they matched each other.
"Yeah…its fine. Just been thinking a lot. We need to do an equipment inventory and get any order we want in by next week so we can ensure it is here in time. We need the best gear we can get and…" Minato stopped when Yukari put a finger to his lips.
"That can wait for later, Minato. And don't think for a minute that I believe that is all you are worried about," she said raising an eyebrow.
He sighed, "Just having problems understanding my powers. I like to think I've done a good job managing up til now…but there is a lot about it I don't understand and…it's frustrating." It wasn't a lie, but explaining the full thing and how it related to Yukari would complicate things when they already had enough to worry about. The only one that needed to worry about it was him.
"Well I can't say I understand when I don't have a clue how you are able to handle so many Persona. I am used to having just one though," Yukari admitted but grabbed Minato's hand within hers and offered a comforting smile. "You still have time to figure it out…just work it out like you always do."
He stopped walking for a moment. They had arrived at the strip mall and just needed to go up the stairs to get to Hagakure. Minato considered Yukari's words for a moment, "Like I always do?" He said more to himself.
"Yep, you'll figure it out," she smiled, and no doubt knowing how her words had stimulated me. "Now come on, let's eat."
Minato probably had been over thinking it. He needed to look at it more logically…the problem was he had been avoiding doing just that because of his relationship with Yukari. Was that it? Was he really the problem here? Maybe he was the reason their link had stopped…but why would that be? As he and Yukari took a seat in Hagakure…the realization hit him pretty fast. Sure, Yukari had made lots of progress with her Mother and things were great…but when was the last time that their relationship had actually moved forward? So then…was that the answer? Did they need to progress to the next level? He had told her he loved her and she the same to him…that wasn't it. How do you go further than that? Of course the answer came quickly…and it made him blush and his temperature go up quickly. There was no greater expression of love…no better way to show how much the two of them meant to each other. The trust and affection needed to come together in such an honest, genuine and unmistakable way. It had to be sex, right? Well…using the word sex didn't feel right to Minato. That seemed to cheapen how important a moment like that was.
It wasn't like he could ever deny that he wanted to…he was a growing teenage boy after all. However…in his life he had seen a lot of what happened when sex was cheapened to just a commodity to acquire. A particular foster father had made it seem like the event meant nothing…that it was just a means to satisfy your bodily urges. And well Minato can't exactly fault that way of thinking…but he had always felt that love should always be a part of the equation. That was why the term to 'make love' was used instead of just saying sex. That couldn't be the real answer to this, right? He had slept next to Yukari several times, but he had never done anything more than that. Never touched her more than he felt was appropriate…no nothing like…the hotel.
That's right…the night of the Full Moon…the night where the Shadow had hijacked them to giving in to the most basic of desires. No, even after all this time they had never been like that again. At that time…they were both compelled simply by lust…the desire to become one with each other. And…Minato got to his feet. "I'll be right back…I need some air." Minato said and quickly made his way outside.
He took in some fresh air and let out a heavy sigh. Now it made a lot of sense. Minato and Yukari had a glaring event that they had not resolved or dealt with. And it was from a time before they had even dated…but it was what most likely stopped them both. A nagging doubt that was most likely in both of their minds. This was why when they kissed or got more intimate it always stopped before it went anywhere. There was no question from either of them where to stop…they both stopped…they never went for pieces of clothing…both became hesitant and then would stop. And maybe…there was a fear that anything closer than that would not be their own feelings…but ones left imprinted on them from their encounter with the Lovers Shadow.
"Hey man, you alright?" Junpei was standing next to him. Minato was somewhat surprised for a moment but then let out a heavy sigh and looked out to the street where cars were driving by.
"These Shadows…Strega…and SEES…they all did quite a number on our lives," Minato said reflectively. "I guess I am just realizing how different things are now than when we started."
"Yeah it has been a crazy year," Junpei agreed. "I know I've changed a lot. Thanks to Chidori."
"Love does odd things to us," Minato chuckled. "I guess I'm not much different in that regard."
"But I was such an idiot. She had to die for me to get the message. I just never knew what to say or do…I only knew that I wanted to spend as much time as I could with her," Junpei let out his own heavy sigh. "Now she's gone and things have only gotten worse. I don't know if you've heard, but there is some sort of dooms day cult going around. It probably has to do with Nyx coming and maybe people can just sense that something is coming. Still…Chidori entrusted me to live in her stead…so we gotta find a way to stop it."
Minato nodded, "Chidori's sacrifice for you…and Aragaki-senpai's sacrifice to save Ken. And who knows how many people have died in history in order to protect their love ones with the thought that they would all have a future…that they would all live on. It is a large burden to carry."
"But we're the only ones that can," Junpei said.
"You're right," Minato agreed.
"Plus we still have Takaya and Jin to worry about and whatever they are up to," Junpei added.
"Might help if we had a quest log," Minato laughed and Junpei did as well.
"Oh man, this is totally like an RPG. Here we are getting ready for the final fight against the big evil. Damn right we're aiming for a happy ending," Junpei did a fist pump. "You know, I never imagined I would make such good friends…people that I would literally trust with my life. Then again it isn't like anyone could expect something like this ever happening. I can't imagine what it was like for you to have that thing inside you for all those years and not know it. Still because of it you got your power and harnessed it and made it your own. I'm glad I got to meet you. It's a bit embarrassing to tell you but that's how I really feel. We'll always be friends, right? I mean, even after all of this is over?"
"Like you need to ask. Just don't try and drag me into any of your Operation Babe Hunt scheme's," Minato chuckled.
"Cool man," Junpei ginned and the two of them shook hands. "We should head back in. Yuka-tan ordered you a Hagakure bowl and they are probably waiting for us."
"Yeah," Minato turned back towards the restaurant. "Thanks, Junpei. You're a really good friend."
"Anytime," he said as the two of them went back in.
Minato say back down next to Yukari and smiled. So there was a hurdle that the two of them needed to conquer…one that they both hadn't really talked about. He could feel that he was right about this…that it was what he needed to do. For now he would focus on just being with his friends, "What I miss?"
"Aigis and Senpai were looking at some magazine…what is it called?" Yukari directed her question to Aigis.
"It's quite a disturbing title. 'Emergence of the Messiah: The Charismatic One Speaks'. Its about the doomsday cult that has surfaced over the last couple of weeks," Aigis explained.
Akihiko flipped open the magazine and then Minato saw as his eyes got big, "What the…!?"
"There is a picture of their leader…" Aigis said as she leaned over to take a look.
Minato and Yukari got up and went to look as well. They all crowded around Akihiko.
"Hey…that's…" Yukari started but it was pretty obvious who it was.
"It's Takaya," Junpei got angry. Minato wasn't surprised considering Takaya was the reason why Chidori had died…in a way.
"Tch, I thought something was up," Akihiko puts down his chopsticks. "I've lost my appetite."
"Listen to what he says... 'Mankind is currently imprisoned by the sins of hate and anger. But soon, a savior will descend upon this world to break the chains that bind us, and lift us to new heights. This great being is Nyx. I have beheld her glory, and she has blessed me with power beyond belief. In Nyx there is no pain... no suffering... But, there are those who do not understand this truth, even though they have also been blessed by her. They have acquired the same power as I; yet they abuse it, using it for their own personal gain. These miscreants are the ones to blame for the recent tragedies that have been plaguing our streets.'" Aigis looked at the others.
"Hm…well its one way to make a cult. Claim you have all the answers and give people someone to blame for the things that have gone wrong," Minato sighed.
"Seems like Jin has been using his popularity on the internet to help get Takaya more attention to his cult. Those two must have planned this through," Akihiko was visibly irritated.
"Brothers and sisters, I shall go forth to make preparations for Nyx's arrival... But, do not fear those evildoers who desecrate their gifts. Nyx shall right their wrongs. May your hearts be filled with peace as you await your salvation. Blessed are those who take joy in the coming of Nyx. The revolution is here!" Aigis finished readin the statement.
"What?! 'Revolution'? People can't seriously be buying this crap, can they?" Junpei was shaking his head.
"Takaya is highly charismatic, people would listen to him," Minato pointed out. "Like it or not."
"Historically, those who have changed the future were this kind of individual. Hmm…it seems after the article that Takaya and Jin have disappeared again," Aigis reported.
"Well, there is only one place they could have gone. Tartarus. They must've been planning this all along," Akihiko sighed.
"Still Takaya's words have changed the mood of the entire city. Even though most won't admit it, they are all afraid," Aigis stated a simple truth. Minato had observed the behavior in nearly everyone in town. It was disheartening to see.
"Can we forget about this?" Yukari suddenly said and only now did Minato realize how she was clinging to him.
"Yeah, we already made up our minds, so we can just leave it at that. Our objective is Nyx. And if Strega gets in our way, then we'll just have to deal with them then," Junpei said.
They all nodded.
"We'll probably run into them in Tartarus anyway. However you look at it, we're the obstacles standing in their way," Akihiko noted.
"The promised day will be here soon," Yukari said as more of a whisper.
"Yeah, and that is why we need to put in all we can to be ready for it," Minato said as he gave a comforting smile to Yukari. Yeah…there was a lot going on…but they needed to handle it one step at a time so that they could truly face anything. And Minato knew they could…because one way or another…he was determined to win.
Author's Note
We spend the whole chapter in the past, but its the main focus at the moment. This is a pretty meaty chapter sitting just over 11k by itself. But some of my favorite moments and discussion are in this chapter. This is about SEES resolve being strengthened as they come closer to the end confrontation. Next chapter we wrap up the final Social Links...Empress, Aeon and of course...Lovers.
Not too much I want to say today so...read, review and spread the word if you like what you're reading.
Before I forget, I do have a Persona 4 fan fiction that I will begin posting here after I finish with this one. It isn't quite complete yet, so I may release it a couple times a week instead of every day like I have this one. Anyway, I hope you continue to enjoy it...and if you don't...well you can't please everyone, lol. See you all tomorrow with the next chapter.