Chapter 32

?/?

In some obscure location outside of Inaba.

"So… that's why we couldn't get anything on him."

"You were right, Sho. A shift in perspective was all it took to acquire the information you needed." An all encompassing voice echoed around him.

"Alright. I got some scheming to do. It may take a bit, I think we can create an even more favorable situation than before."

"You have much at your disposal now. Are you sure you need more?"

"Against those schmucks, I'll take anything and everything. That pretty boy is one tough customer. I'll make sure he won't get the jump on me this time!" Sho assures his ally. "Now… how to break that Imposter and remind him why I am the one in the right…"

12/31

Inaba in the night brought the snow earlier compared to last year! Only half an hour until the end of 2012, and over half an inch of snow has already piled onto the streets, paths, and everything else you can think of. The bell at the Shrine would ring, counting down until 2013 would finally arrive. The boys were already gathered at the front of Kanji's home, waiting for the girls to arrive. They're almost late.

"Ugh, it's just like last year!" Kanji groans, hands tucked into his pockets.

"Last year?" Masato asks, completely out of the loop as one would expect.

"Oh, that's because the girls barely made it before the new year began. We had to book it to the Shrine to celebrate New Year's before the rest of the crowd funneled in." Yosuke elaborates.

"Yeah. I remember you all getting way too excited for them wearing Kimonos." Souji remarks, getting all their heads to turn, but only one was due to bewilderment.

"Wait, what? They wore Kimonos!?" Masato didn't expect all of them to wear one. Well, except for Yukiko.

"No, they didn't. These three convinced themselves that they would be wearing some." Although in Souji's case… that changed come the first afternoon of the new year. His friends don't need to know that.

"H-Hey! Don't imply we wanted to see them in those kimonos that badly–!" Yosuke stammers, poorly attempting to save face in front of the new guy.

"...I wasn't implying."

Suddenly, all three guys stiffen up and are silent. Masato looks around and feels a chill.

"Wow, did it… get colder all of a sudden?"

To the rest of the guys, it was Deja vu. To Masato… ignorance is bliss. At least this time.

"Sorry about the wait!" A feminine voice reaches out to catch their attention. All the boys look and spot the group of ladies that have kept them waiting for quite some time.

"Our apologies. Heating packs still seem to be in high demand." Naoto bows quickly, aware this happened last year as well.

"Heya, everyone. I hope we didn't keep you all waiting for so long." Rise shakes her head, looking at the time on her phone. It wasn't super close like last year, but still they were supposed to meet up earlier than now. "We got some time. Why don't we all go into the Shrine? We might get a better spot this time!"

"That would be wise. We barely got inside last year." Naoto concurred, lowering her cap. She wore her more androgynous clothes this time around. The public setting was keeping her anxious. Even if no one will be focusing on her. She lowers her cap to feel a bit warmer.

"Yeah, we should get goin'. It's looking more packed now that the murder is old news." Kanji observes, keeping himself a bit closer to the Detective; she herself finds some comfort in his presence.

The group steps forward, entering the shrine as the bell rings once more. Everyone chats away as they await the new year together. Now… only minutes remain.

"Jeez, it's cold…" Yosuke shivers, feeling it now since the boys have been standing and waiting for these girls for quite some time. "Next time, let's just meet up inside Kanji's house if it's this cold again."

"H-Hey! You'll disturb Ma if you all just barge in like that!" Kanji protests, some of the girls giggling at his endearing reaction.

Souji pulls out his phone, realizing the final minute has arrived.

"Guys. Get ready." The leader causes a chain reaction of everyone pulling out their smartphones and flip phones, seeing it is indeed almost time to greet the new year.

"10… 9… 8… 7… 6…

5… 4… 3… 2… 1…!

Happy New Year!"

All of them, in unison, welcome in the new year, exchanging greetings with one another.

"Happy New Year, Souji-kun."

"Happy New Year to you as well, Yukiko."

"Oh, Masato-kun…! Happy new year!"

"And a Happy New year to you too, Rise!" Couples and friends all exchanged greetings, enjoying the late night together, but elected towards heading home shortly after to be done with the cold; at least for tonight.

01/01

A cold morning greets everyone who awakens, the television airing the marathon that airs every New Year's day. While some make early trips to the shrine for the first visit of the year, others are enjoying varying spreads.

In different parts of Inaba, the Dojima and the Apartment complex where Masato resides, both he and Souji get text messages at the same time.

{Happy new year. I hope we'll continue to get along well this year too. If you would like, perhaps we can go pay our first visit to the Shrine? I don't mind if Nanako-chan and Dojima-san wish to join us.} Souji gains a sense of Deja vu, feeling like he's read half this message already.

{Happy new year!~ Let's keep getting closer and closer, okayyy? Hey, how about we go for our first visit of the year today? I got a little special surprise for you if we go~} There were a lot of emoticons at the end of that. A wink, a heart… she's serious about this.

"That girl…" Masato shrugs to himself.

But in Souji's case back in his place, he immediately replies.

{Sure. I'll see what time they plan to go and let you know.}

As for Masato…

{I can't exactly say no when you're that enthusiastic. What time works for you?}

Souji must descend down the stairs once more to ask Dojima if he and Nanako plan to pay their respects today. Masato, on the other hand, gets his answer from Rise.

{How about in a couple of hours? I need some time to get ready.}

{That's fine with me. I'll get ready too. Looking forward to seeing you again.} And, sent!

He only has to wait a few minutes to hear his phone buzz on the table for her response.

{Awww, I'll make sure your wait is worth it, hun!}

While that happened, Souji in his home went back to his room, taking his phone off the charger and texting Yukiko the time he had in mind.

{How does 1PM sound to you?}

Of course, he didn't need to wait for long to receive a reply from Yukiko.

{That's perfect! I'll meet you there!}

And now, the times are set. Rise is to meet her boyfriend two hours from now, while Yukiko is to meet her beloved at 1PM. The shrine was about to get busier! No doubt that sly Fox will be pleased.

The afternoon comes faster than Souji could expect, and he finds himself waiting, alone, by the gate; facing the Shrine as he waits for word on his beloved's arrival.

"Sorry if I kept you waiting for so long… oh!" He could hear her recognizable voice as well as her steps catching up to his position.

Turning around, he sees her in a Kimono that is even more detailed than before. Flower patterns line the arms. Her hair is down compared to before, but this hair band also has similar patterns, and she is even carrying a fan in hand to complete the set. The Obi wrapped around her is a bright yellow with laces of green.

"Where is Dojima-san and Nanako-chan?"

"He had to stop by work real fast. They'll be here soon to make their offerings and take us home, but they said we could pay our respects first." Souji explains.

"Hm, well… let's do it then." Yukiko nods with a beaming smile. Ever the opportunist, she steps beside him, instinctively wrapping her arm around his.

"Hm, I wonder if Uncle was just expecting you to want to be close like this… give us the moment."

"Well, I'll be sure to thank him for it later."

"Haha, you brat… let's get going then." Despite his "protests", he didn't attempt once to create even a centimeter of separation.

The two enter the Shrine area, arm around the other and make their way to the offering box, the freezing temperature not phasing them at all.

"You know… this year felt like it had zoomed right by us. Especially when we actually are together."

"Then should I wish for us to be able to spend more time with one another?"

"Souji-kun… I want that… but it would interfere with our, and your studies. Don't you want to do more after high school?"

"...If it's with you, then sure. But I'm fine with just being by your side, Yukiko. I don't need some degree to be your right hand in the business, do I?" He was confident in his skills. Perhaps… he's underestimating how ruthless the business can be.

"Well… I'll wish for us to do well with our goals." In terms of their relationship staying on great terms…. She was more than confident enough to accomplish that goal with her man.

"Then I'll go with my wish. For us to be able to spend more time together. It's a bit selfish, but… I want to support you like how you do for me."

"Souji-kun… very well. Let's make our wish." She appreciates his unbreakable resolve. The two make their offerings and bring their hands together, offering a prayer. A moment of silence occurs next, with the two opening their eyes and seeing one another.

"I hope our wishes come true."

"Let's work together to make sure they do come true." She too has her own resolve that refuses to bend. Their year together helped shape them into strong individuals, but even stronger as a pair. Their bonds with each other and all they know around them are a source of strength that they draw upon. It will be needed for the times ahead.

"Shall we draw fortunes?" Yukiko asks, getting a quick nod from the Wild Card. The two shall enjoy this time they have to the fullest. Last year they both pulled a great blessing. Can they repeat it?

"Shall we draw at the same time then?" Souji suggests, hand ready to find his fortune for the year.

"Mm. Ready when you are, Souji-kun."

"Let's do it then." A mutual nod from both of them in unison, following up with the two reaching forth and grasping what they believe will be their fate for the year.

Yukiko and Souji pull their fortunes out at the same time as well. But it was the Heiress who opened hers first.

"I got a small blessing. I suppose going back to back great was too tall of a task." Despite this, she wasn't displeased at all. "Let's see… 'Trying times are ahead, but do not be afraid to step up and lead the opposition against adversity. Facing such battles will strengthen you in many ways. You have all you need to succeed.'... Hm, I'm not sure if I could classify this as a blessing."

"I would. I mean, it means believing you can handle whatever the world throws at you." Souji answers with unshakeable faith in his beloved.

"Thanks. I wonder if it's about the Shadow Operatives…"

"Who knows. It might have to do with what's going on soon. Or maybe something after." He ponders, but a growing feeling wells up inside that maybe they're looking too much into this.

"Well, what does yours say, Souji-kun?"

"Oh, right." He almost forgot about the closed fortune in his hand. Opening slowly, his expression is a giveaway.

"Small curse."

"Oh. Um… what does it say?"

"Well… 'Trust is vital. For things to continue harmoniously, you must discard the walls that surround you. Break them down.' Huh…" Yukiko stares at his puzzled expression, like he's trying to comprehend this quick enough to form an opinion for her.

"Hm… I feel like you already are breaking those walls. What does the romance portion say?"

"It says, 'Support your partner and allow their support to reach you. Failing to do so could damage the bridge between you.' Wondering if this wasn't supposed to be a Great curse…"

"It's okay! As long as we confide in each other whenever we need to, I'm certain your luck will turn around."

"If Yosuke somehow gets a better fortune than me, I'll know I hit rock bottom. He's got the worst luck I know."

"Ahaha… that's true. I'll definitely ask Chie when I get the chance."

"Well… no matter what, I'll make sure things go well this year for us."

"And I will too." The two share a quiet resolve together as they start to make their way back to the Shrine gate; the sound of a little girl getting their attention. Looks like the Dojima family is here too.

New year's passes in relative peace. However, the next day is when this year's worth of serenity begins to turn.

01/02

Late morning hours. The snow was coming down today just like on New year's eve. Quietly and slowly, a perfect example of Inaba's midwinter season. Tokyo rarely matches, and not for long anyway.

Masato was waiting for Rise to arrive, but the idol was here at the train station with ten minutes to spare! The two were waiting at the side. No one was around, so it made for a nice moment to be just a little intimate.

"I bet you're still swooning over yesterday, huh…?"

"I would be lying if I said it wasn't a sight to behold."

"Heehee, I knew you'd love it! It's a look I don't go for often, but it was a special occasion after all. Next year I'll go cutesy like I usually do."

"Looking forward to it." His sheepish smile gives way to fueling Rise's self-confidence to absurd new heights. She has someone she wants to impress and win over now. Even if it's something she no longer needs to do now that she's with him properly; in her mind, it's simply her taking any little way she can to prove she has a relationship, something that is absolutely not allowed in her world. Her own defiance towards the norm.

"Oh, I forgot to tell you this sooner, but the other day Inoue-san called me. He said that apparently someone took a picture of all of us at the train station. You, me, both of my Senpai… and it was the same tabloid from before."

"Oh, wonderful. Should we cancel our plans then?" A groan almost escaped, but he refrained.

"Mm-mm… Inoue-san says it wasn't anything too serious. Just something for fans to chew on while everyone is on holiday breaks. They didn't imply anything romantic this time, so Inoue didn't go after them. However…" Here's the catch. "Inoue-san officially listed you as part of my security detail. So the internet might be having a field day wondering what we're up to."

"...I'm really glad forums aren't my thing." This time, that groan of frustration could not be held back.

"H-Hey, it's going to be fine. You won't be hounded by reporters or anything. But you might have to be a little more wary when you're out in public."

"Sounds fun." His tone deepens, hoping this doesn't lead to unwanted attention.

"...You know. I was wondering if maybe one day, we could be like this anywhere. Not just here in Inaba." The tone shifted. His expression didn't quite sour in response to that, but it certainly lost its positivity.

"I'm a bit of an outsider to this, but… I don't like that you can't really live any personal life that isn't to the fans or sponsors' satisfaction. I… shouldn't be all that surprised though." His tone reached a level of jadedness Rise had not heard before. Was this cynical side always there?

"Do you think it can change?"

"...If I'm being honest? I don't think so. At least, not within the next decade. Fans need to realize it on their own first, but…"

"Yeah. I don't want to admit that you might be right…"

"Rise-!"

"O-Oh, yes?" His sudden callout caught her off guard.

"Even if that is the case… as long as we care for each other; then it can all work out."

"...Mm. Yeah, you're right." Rise perked up just a smidge, but he was far from done with his point.

"I too would love nothing more than to tell everyone that you, the kindest, most compassionate woman I know chose me, despite all my flaws, despite hiding things from you out of fear… that Rise herself chose to have me be by her side… I couldn't be a happier man right now."

Rise, on instinct, pulls him closer.

"Y-You're being so…" Her eyes were a dead giveaway on what her plan of attack was. She wanted to kiss him so bad.

Grabbing her man by the collars of his coat, she was centimeters from locking lips when a loud ringing noise was heard from his pocket.

"Agh-" She knew it. She felt it. The moment was ruined. Tarnished by his phone ringing.

He had no choice but to reluctantly pull himself away from her; but when he saw the number, his eyes widened."

"Yoshida speaking."

"Greetings, Agent H-A0905. It is Aigis. Are you with your friends?"

"Well… just Rise. Did something come up?"

"Ah, please put your phone on speaker. It will be easier if you both hear this."

Masato obliges and taps the speaker button on his phone.

"Okay. Rise can hear you; go ahead, Aigis-san."

"Good day, Rise-san. I bring urgent news." Her tone is still as stiff as ever, but for this occasion it may be justified. "We are en route to Inaba as we speak. ETA under two hours. I must request you two to go and gather your friends so we can assemble and discuss the concerning situation. We have reason to believe Sho Minazuki is plotting something."

"S-Sho…?" Rise starts to tremble at the mention of his name. Masato offers his hand if she needs the comfort, to which she obliges, both of her gloved hands clench around his own left.

"Indeed. I suggest gathering your friends so we may plan this properly. I apologize for telling you this while you are all enjoying your break, but he appeared to be active in Inaba once again.

"I understand. We won't just let him run amok in our home… right, Masato-kun?" She tries to assure that he is every part of this community like she and all her friends are.

"Yeah…" Now it is he himself wanting to hold her hands tight.

"I comprehend. I shall leave you two so you may gather everyone. May I suggest we meet somewhere more discreet? Perhaps the Hill overlooking town that you showed us could work. Is that acceptable?"

"You're not coming in a limousine again, are you?" He shakes his head instinctively.

"No, we are not. A black, four door." Right. Totally not conspicuous at all. Next they'll be dressed in black suits, shades, and carrying devices that erase your recent memories.

"Then that should work. The Inn is likely still packed so we can't request a meeting room there."

"I calculated that to be the likely case. Junes can serve as an alternate location if need be. I shall make contact once we are closer to the vicinity."

"Alright. We'll contact you once we are closer. Signing off." The call ends as abruptly as it began.

"Rise… are you-"

"I'll be fine. I'm not going to be afraid of him. We need to stop whatever it is he has planned. I have you to keep me safe if I need help this time."

"Yeah…. Alright, then let's call up everyone. I'll start with Souji himself."

The two remained by the train station, making calls to everyone and texting the few that didn't pick up like Teddie.

By the time they were done, their train had come and gone already. The two didn't have to worry about many people anyway, so their conversations didn't need to be so discreet. But now that all the other individuals were informed about the situation, it became apparent to them both it was time to go.

As Masato was stepping forth to go down the stairs, the idol got a hold of his sleeve.

"Hey, wait. Before we go…" Her head was drooping down slightly.

"Yes? What's wrong, Rise-Hmph!?"

Surprise! The Imposter is caught off his guard again. Rise locked lips with him the moment he turned around to face her. And she hit him dead center too! The young man willingly stands his ground, but she pulls back almost as quickly as when she made her move.

"Hmhm… that was for before. Didn't forget; now let go!" She drops that first sentence in such a smooth, buttery tone; while her enthusiasm returns like nothing happened when she suggests they move out.

"I… you're so… you, Rise." He's stunned by her brazen action. Thank the gods no one was around to witness that. No ace attorney could bail them out and beat the dating allegations.

With her winning this moment, the two now begin their trek to the Hill. It'll be a decent length of wait time, so perhaps they can get some food before making their way there.

As the meeting time drew closer, Naoto and Kanji sat together at the back of the bus on each side. The back was empty and few people remained towards the front.

Kanji was nervous; feeling like he should have gotten some training in. The time gap between Sho's first appearance and now… was quite big. The gap alone from after they defeated Izanami until the P-1 Grand Prix made him realize that keeping your Persona battle ready was a constant struggle. Naoto, aware of his demeanor looking tense, offers her own words of encouragement.

"Kanji-kun, we can handle this. Whether it's Sho or merely shadows acting up, we can best them."

"...Yeah. Thanks, Naoto. I'm just nervous we might not perform as well. It's been a long time since we got some training in. Or at least, I didn't get any done."

"A valid concern. Considering the stakes last time… I cannot fault you for your anxiety about the meeting." Naoto was wearing her blue peacoat, albeit without her bindings.

"That's exactly it. The guy must be ready for us this time. But… we still got those Shadow Operative guys with us too."

"Yes. Mitsuru-san and her comrades are powerful allies to have. We should trust they have a plan. If not, we can prepare together."

"Yeah. You're tight." Kanji nodded firmly, now getting fired up with his doubts put at ease. "We'll kick his ass and keep Inaba safe!"

"Now there's the Kanji-kun I know." Naoto softly giggles to herself. It won't be long until they reach the rendezvous point.

Ten more minutes on the bus and they reach their stop. Disembarking, they notice everyone sitting around the gazebo, talking to each other as the youngest members of the Investigation team arrive at last.

"Hey, guys. No sign of them yet?"

"Kanji-kun! Naoto-kun! Masato-kun just got off the phone with them. They'll be here in a couple of minutes or so." It was Yukiko who greeted them first.

"Excellent. While I hope it isn't anything major, it has been a while since Sho openly challenged us through the Midnight Channel." Naoto wanted to keep an optimistic view, yet she knew better than to assume that it would come true.

"We're all here then." Souji declared; with the third years, second years, Teddie, and the Imposter all present and accounted for. "Hey, is that… Yes, I think that's them." Souji ascends from his seat partially, leaning with his hand pushing on the table to see the black car that had parked to the side. Yes, no doubt about it.

"Ooh, it's Labby-chan and Ai-chan!" Teddie spots the two standouts right away! Both were dressed in inconspicuous black trench coats. The last person to emerge was Fuuka, wearing a white mid winter jacket, same color gloves, and a long skirt.

"Good afternoon, Investigation Team. All is well, I presume?" Aigis calls out to everyone with brisk steps.

"Ai-chan! It's beary good to see you again!"

"Hello, Aigis. We've been well. I'd prefer we skip the pleasantries for now." Souji suggests. It is pretty cold, after all.

"Brrr! It's colder here than Tokyo!" Fuuka shivers. "Yes, let's get straight to it!"

"Y'know; I kinda wish we could understand what you guys go through with extreme weatha." Labrys speaks with a trivial envy. "This ain't botherin' me at all!" It would take much colder temperatures to phase her or her sister.

Everyone all got settled and shuffled around. The three sat on one side of the table, with Fuuka pulling out her laptop. Pulling up all she needed, she started with her point.

"As Masato-kun was informed earlier, we have reason to believe Sho Minazuki may appear again. Shadow activity has picked up here, but also in Sapporo and Tokyo.

"Is that why Mitsuru-san and Akihiko are not here with you all?" Yosuke questions.

"Mhm. They're checking out the other areas. While he isn't likely there, the levels were concerning enough to have an Operative lead an operation against these activity spikes.

"My sister, Fuuka-san, and I are here to assist you all. We are ninety percent certain he will target Inaba once more. His declaration of war towards us gives me a high probability of this being the case."

"It's as Aigis says; we are here to help track down the location of where he is hiding."

"You don't think he's going to attack us first?" Yosuke again wants clarification.

"No. He said it himself; he will let us all know when he plans to attack. We believe getting the jump on him first may be better."

"That's a risky move. Do you have an idea of where inside the TV world he might be in?" Now Souji speaks up, unsure of if this strategy is the correct one.

"Ah, yes. Please take a look at the screen." Fuuka turns her laptop to face the residents, where they see an image of a doppler radar-like view of the area. "So this area here is marked in yellow." Using the opposite end of her pen, she points to a specific part of Inaba. "I have a theory. Have any of you ever looked inside your TVs? I mean as in, stuck your head in by itself to see what was on the other side."

"Ha… I may have gotten curious." Yosuke scratches his cheek. "Hey, Souji… you almost fell in back then. Did you get a good view?"

"No. I did not want to risk it after that first time." He bluntly replies.

"Huh…"

"I may have… tried it once." It was Kanji who raised his hand.

"Oho! Well, I shouldn't be that surprised-"

"What was that?"

"Enough. Kanji, continue." Souji nipped that argument between the Emperor and the Magician in the bud.

"Oh, uh, yeah; so anyway, I looked inside one day during Summer. And I noticed that I could see that Sauna place nearby, but when I turned my head… I could see the club Rise was trapped in farther away from me."

"What!?" Yosuke and some of the others seem surprised by this, yet Naoto merely nodded her head.

"I think I follow Fuuka-san's logic. Kanji and Rise live on the same street; practically neighbors. So if you two were kidnapped by Namatame then and there… then it makes sense both locations would spawn close by."

"Ah, so it seems I am onto something after all." Fuuka nodded, fiddling with her pen while they were talking. "My theory is that we can travel to the location where the Shadows are using the map and know where we start. Junes is here and the location is to the Southwest. We simply must calculate the distance, navigate accordingly, and we'll find where the Shadows are at."

"That's an interesting method you planned, Fuuka-san. We had to track an individual target like a kidnap victim. Teddie could smell them and Rise could search them out… This just might work. What do you think, Senpai?"

"...I'm not sure, but it is the best course of action. I say we go for it. Are we going in today?"

"We could if you wish. But going in hastily might be a mistake. I would rather give you the entire day and night today to prepare accordingly."

"You're the Leader here, Souji-kun. You got more experience there than any of us." Labrys elaborates. "Mitsuru-san trusts ya with making the call on what to do. We can go today, tomorrow, or later if need be. We trust ya too."

"I appreciate that, Labrys." Souji rises from his seat and looks to see everyone around him, who all nod accordingly. "Then tomorrow it is. We'll all make sure to have everything in order by then."

"I'm glad to hear that. I'll keep an eye on the radar. With updates from HQ, we'll know if things get better or worse so we can adjust our strategy accordingly."

"Very well. Then is there anything else we'll need to know before disbanding?"

"Only that you should be ready for anything." She speaks with stiff words.

"Then we'll be ready. Isn't that right?"

"Yeah!" All of his local friends declare in unison. Fuuka only smiles back, joyed by their unity, proof of their strength as a team. Tomorrow will be their first mission with the Shadow Operatives properly. Now it's best they rest up and prepare for battle. The River's flow is at risk of being interrupted once more. How will things move? Will objects in place return to the flow once more? Or will some be removed entirely? Only the Future knows…

01/03

Noon had just passed on this slow day, snow descending from the sky being the only thing slower than the clock's ticking down of seconds. Everyone was gathered at Junes. Most opted for their winter uniforms, a habit at this point, with thicker coats put over them.

"So, we all know what we're going to do." Souji speaks nonchalantly.

"Yeah. Find those Shadows, confirm if Sho is there, and either bring him in or wipe out the Shadow threat." Yosuke reaffirms the goals.

"Hm… we sound like secret agents." Naoto giggles quietly to herself, reminding her of the media she watched when she was younger. What a bizarre way to make this girl's dream come true.

"You're all pretty relaxed, eh? I figured youse guys would be a lil' nervous." Labrys chirps.

"We've done this so many times now. It's been a while since we were all concerned about actually pulling it off." Souji shakes his head, downplaying his obvious confidence in his team.

"Objectives established. Let us proceed together as one."

"Right, Ai-chan! I checked and there's a sale in the fridge aisle! So everyone will be in the grocery section of the store; we should be good!"

"Then this is where we'll part. I shall keep you all informed while I find the location of where the Shadows are located here in the real world. You'll still have my support."

"I understand. Best of luck to you, Fuuka-san." Souji nods while Yukiko steps forward.

"Then let's go, everyone." Yukiko corrals the team as all make their way to the Electronics section, entering one at a time while keeping a lookout.

Once inside, the cleared up entrance was all they could see. The Leader wasted no time, immediately pulling out the slab hiding their weapon stache with the help of Izanagi. It would not be long before Fuuka got into contact with them telepathically.

"Souji-kun. Are you all ready to move out?"

"Yes. You said we should go southwest, yeah?"

"Mm. Aigis will lead the way."

As he turns to Aigis, she seems already focused on the direction of which they will go.

"Everyone, please follow me." Her sense of direction should be impeccable. The perks of being an android.

Fuuka had traveled slowly by car, comparing both the geographical map of the town and its overall layout to the streets and buildings to the radar of where Shadow activity was encircling to find a focal point. Meanwhile, everyone in the TV world continued to follow Aigis and Labrys, adjusting accordingly to the natural layout of said world as it was much more… dynamic compared to the real world.

Fuuka had at last reached Fuji Street, a much more spacious area that had some empty and corroding buildings, likely once a residential area from days of old. It also led to a nursery school. Here, she requested to be parked by an empty lot, so as to not inconvenience other drivers. Once confirming her location, she waited for her allies and friends to reach this spot on their own; as they were walking, it would naturally take longer for them to reach the point of interest.

As for how that group was doing, they were coming up on the location at last.

"Masato-kun; how are you holding up? Nervous?" Yukiko was the one who asked this question. Rise, surprisingly, was focused on the task at hand.

"A bit. This is what I've been training for; for months, actually. I think I can keep up with you guys." He has to. There's no trying when it comes to the real deal; you do it or you don't.

"I'm glad to hear. Let us know if you ever need help. You're our friend, after all."

"Right… friends. I won't fail you guys." His tone is much more concentrated. Yukiko assumes it only to be nerves flaring up. How can she assure him to relax?

"Guys, I'm sensing something!" Rise calls out, stopping place.

"I sense it as well, Rise-chan."

"Shadows?" Souji asks, keeping an eye on his surroundings with alternating glances in different directions.

"There is… something unusual. I'm scanning something unusual."

"Unusual? So it's not a Shadow?"

"It might be what is attracting them! Please, keep moving forward. It's not too far from your location."

"Any sign of Sho?"

"No. I detect no other life forms besides all of you. But he might be concealing his presence, so be careful."

"Very well." Souji nods, turning towards everyone. "Let's proceed with caution."

It was time to uncover the source of whatever has these Shadows acting up. But how will they react to the answer they seek? And is Sho involved? They must keep moving forward. The answers will not come to them on their own.

A/C: I've been busy with work, yet it's still not enough. I'm seeking somewhere else to work so I can make more money and get enough hours to get by. We're still on pace to reach the end of the first half of the story by Chapter 36. This climax will begin now. Notions and Preconceptions will be challenged; Sho's new trajectory will begin here compared to his canon counterpart. We'll have waves of action and the fallout afterward. After I get to that point, I'll take a short break from writing. About a month or so. Just so I can focus on writing up the outline. I want most of that narrowed down before I pick up my "pen" again. Oh, and some of you may be thinking where Rise and Masato's New Year's visit is. Trust me, you're not ready for it yet. It's meant to come into play later as a flashback. You'll understand why when the time comes. For now, trust me.

Today's Musical Reference was tough to choose, but I went with "Little Lies" by Fleetwood Mac. Great band. My old man had one of their albums actually.

Next time, the action begins. This is just the start. The warmup, if you will. Do pay attention, however; you might pick up on something sooner than everyone else.