Chapter 1.5: Taking care of Masamune

*TWO WEEKS BEFORE GOLDEN WEEK*

After the whole "moment" back at the Inn. Yukiko had an Idea that all of her friends should take care of Masamune, this strange pet.. Of course at first no one wanted to take a creature that looked dangerous into their home's, but then Chie was the first to take Masamune back to her home. And dangerous as it looks, it's actually cute. The long green hair, big green eyes, and even the holes on its legs look like cheese. And the horn as well. Chie recalls what her friend Yukiko had said to her and her friends as she was walking home. "I have an idea. Why don't we all take care of Masamune? That way, he can be friends with everyone here. And besides. I think the staff has been planning to remove Masamune away from me to this day.. I don't want to be separated from him. I love him. I love him so much. So, can anyone take him? Or her, was it?"

*CHIE'S POV*

"Dad, Mom, I'm home!" Chie said as took off her shoes near the entrance of her house on the inside. "That smell… *sniff sniff* Meat…" Chie said as she went to the kitchen. "Hey dad. Hey mom." said Chie as her parents were making tonight's supper. The smell of meat, the grease jumping and dancing around, that's the smell of meat all right! "Hello Chie supper is almost-" Chie's mother looked at her, realizing that Chie was holding an unfamiliar creature on her hands. It made her shake in fear. "Ch-chie… What is that.. Thing in your hands?" Chie's mother said as then her father looked at Chie and then too saw what Chie was holding. "What in the?!" Chie's father used the spatula in his hand and waved it around towards the creature Chie was holding. All the while protecting his wife, who had grabbed a nearby knife and kept it close to her. "H-hey. It's not what you think! It's a. I mean… I promised Yukiko to take care of her pet!" Chie explained holding on to Masamune tightly. "Your. Friend's pet?" Chie's mom asked. "Yeah. it's her pet." Chie answered as she continued on. "I assure you guys, that it's not the devil. It would've eaten me alive by now would it?" Chie said hypothetically. After some talking, Chie got her parent's to calm down. But doing so got the meat Chie's dad was cooking, to burn in a fiery crisp. Oh well Chie thought as she retreated to her room.

When Chie entered her room, Muku, Chie's dog, woke up from its nap on Chie's bed. "And so. Chie Satonaka, has returned to her master, dojo, room!". Chie says proudly as she sets down Masamune on the floor. "Yo Muku. You have a new friend. Say hi to her? Him?" Chie questioned herself wondering what gender Masamune is. Muku went up to Masamune and looked at it, before walking away and exiting Chie's room. "Guess Muku isn't like that huh?" Chie said as she then closed her door. The room inside was just Chie and Masamune, alone with each other. "Hmm. If Yukiko said that it's like a dog. And can possibly fly. Maybe…Hmm" Chie wondered before a lightbulb went off on her head. "Hey Masamune. Sit!" Chie commanded, and the black creature did as it commanded. "Now roll over!" Chie commanded, as the black creature rolled over left and right before stopping in the middle. Chie commanded Masamune to do basic tricks like a dog would do after bonding with it for some little time. 8 more dog tricks would suffice, according to Chie.

After Masamune did 8 more tricks, fit for a dog, Chie got on her knees and told her one last command. "Alright Masamune. Now come here." Chie commanded as she opened her arms in an attempt to hug the creature. Masamune looked at Chie for a few seconds before tackling her to the ground. "Whoa!" Chie finds herself on the floor, until Masamune suddenly licks her face, like how a dog would sometimes. "H-hey. That tickles Masamune!" Chie said, trying not to laugh and giggle. She let a few out until she couldn't take the tickling sensation anymore and started to laugh playfully.

20 seconds passed since Chie let Masamune lick her face, until Chie commanded Masamune to stop. "Okay, okay Masamune. You can stop now. Or My face is going to be slimy." Chie said as Masamune stepped off of her, allowing Chie to sit up. "Well that was something. I guess you're not bad of a pet to keep after all. I don't know why I doubted Yukiko. But I'm glad my doubt is gone from her. You're a wonderful pet Masamune. Now it's my turn." Chie proudly says as she begins to cuddle Masamune. "Who's a good boy. Who's a good girl. Who's a… Well you know what I mean…" Chie awkwardly said as she continued cuddling Masamune. "H-huh? Why do I feel… Dizzy?" Chie wondered as she stopped cuddling Masamune and began to slowly stand up. Her legs wobbled, but Chie tried to keep her balance. But this dizziness, to Chie it felt like the world was spinning too fast, and her eyelids were becoming heavy. "W-what's… Going… On…." Chie asked herself before collapsing on the floor of her room. Being put into a heavy sleep.

*11 days until golden week*

At Yasogami high, everyone at school talks about basic things to each other. Some would talk about Golden coming in two weeks. But for the 2 friends waiting by the school entrance, they wondered where Chie was. It's almost time for school to start. "Chie, where could you be?" Yosuke wondered until Yukiko spotted her friend. "Look she's over there!". Chie's eyes were dead tired, and was walking very slowly, zombie-like as a matter of fact. Yukiko greeted Chie, but she went past them. Not noticing their presence, she greeted them back in a tired voice as she yawned. "Goooooood. Morning. Y-yuki.. Ko." Chie blinked a few times as she nearly collapsed on the floor. Luckily, Yukiko and Yosuke were there to stop her from falling. "Chie? Are you alright? You're dead tired" Yosuke said, until the girl in red, and boy with brown hair heard their friend snoring. "Crap class is about to start. Come on. Let's get to our classroom fast!" Yosuke said as Yukiko nodded in agreement.

For the rest of the school day, Chie was extremely tired. She could barely even do her school work. Infact, she fell asleep in all of her classes. When the school day ended, Yukiko woke up Chie, and even after sleeping through the whole day of lectures. Chie was still tired. So then, Chie went home immediately when the school day was over, not even making eye contact with her friends, she just went straight past them. Yosuke and Yukiko helped Chie walk her home, encountering their other friend Teddie who was in his bear costume, happily waiting for them near the school entrance. Just so Yosuke can buy him ice cream.

In the end, Yosuke, Yukiko, and Teddie helped Chie back to her home and in return. Give back Masamune to Yukiko, but since Yosuke and Teddie were there with Yukiko. Chie gave Yosuke, Masamune. "H-here. Here it is. Masa.. M-mun…" Chie fell asleep before she could finish saying the black creature's name. Yosuke hesitantly takes Masamune while Yukiko helps her friend get to bed. In her own house.

*YOSUKE'S POV*

Yosuke was still hesitant on letting some creature out of the ordinary enter his home. He isn't sure if the thing is potty trained or not. Well it doesn't matter. It's Yukiko's… "Pet" and if she expects him to take care of it. Then so be it…

The sun goes down as Yosuke enters his home, with Teddie following him. His parents aren't home yet, and for once he is glad that he isn't called into work. Yet..

Once Yosuke and Teddie entered the bedroom belonging to Yosuke, he set down Masamune carefully on his bed while Teddie took off his bear costume and into his human form. The black creature looked at his own surroundings, seeing that the room it's in is very different from the one Chie's room was. It started to walk on its four legs, inspecting and smelling everything Yosuke's room had. "What's it doing Yosuke?" Teddie asked Yosuke. "I'm not sure. Bringing it here is already giving me more trouble than it already has. That thing is not normal at all!" Exclaimed Yosuke as he let it continue what it was doing. "Come on Yosuke. Yukiko said to treat it as if it's a dog." Teddie reminded. "Pretending it to be a dog is the least of my worries!" Yosuke explained. "Come on Yosuke. Give it a try." Teddie wants Yosuke to give the whole "pretend it's a dog" thing a try. Yosuke sighs as he does and attempts to pretend it's a dog, by calling it out to him. "Here Masamune. Over here." Yosuke called out to Masamune. The black creature heard Yosuke's call as it stopped looking around and looked at Yosuke. "C-come on. You may look strange. I mean. You are strange. But not in a bad way. You know. I wonder if I can feel fur on you, you know?" Yosuke nervously chuckles as he attempts to pet Masamune with his right hand.

As Yosuke's hand was almost near Masamune, the black creature looked at its hand. To the creature, it was unfamiliar to it. So in response, the creature opened its mouth and attempted to chomp Yosuke's hand. But Yosuke quickly moved his hand away before it could get bitten off by Masamune. "Gah!" screamed Yosuke as he rubbed his right hand with his left hand, feeling that he really did chomp it off. "Son of a bitch! It nearly bit me!" Exclaimed Yosuke as he was still rubbing his right hand. "Come on Yosuke. You need to do it gently. Like this." Teddie explains as he attempts to pet Masamune. "Come here Masamune. Teddie's hands are clean." Teddie says as his right hand was near Masamune, and he successfully pets Masamune. "Oh my. The hair is soft like butter. I wonder if Yuki-Chan's hair is like that" Teddie says, smiling. Yosuke can only sit in the sidelines, staring at Masamune. He still has doubts about Yukiko's "pet" if it were him, he'd throw it back into the wild where it came from. It was clear that Yosuke had no intention of watching over Masamune. He just wants to get it over with so he can take it to Kanji.

Just as he silently watched Teddie play with Masamune, his phone started vibrating. It was a text message from his Manager. "Yosuke-Kun. We need you here at Junes right now for your night shift. Don't be late okay?" The text message from his manager says. "Hey Ted, can you take care of Masamune? My night shift is up." Yosuke asked Teddie. "Yes sir! Will Teddie get a reward?" questioned Teddie. "Just make sure nothing bad happens to Yukiko's pet alright? If you can, I'll buy you ice cream." Yosuke said. Teddie nodded in agreement while Yosuke grabbed some clothes and then left the room to exit the house. Leaving Teddie by his lonesome.

As Teddie was home alone with Masamune he started rummaging under Yosuke's bed. "Hey Masamune. Let's read Yosuke's magazines! I'm sure they are under his bed somewhere." Said Teddie as he searched under Yosuke's bed. Masamune went somewhere else as the creature's curiosity was piqued. The creature used its small wings to flap into the air looking at the various images on the wall. "Is there a fly in the house? Can you eat flies, Masamune? Wait, don't answer that. I think you do." Teddie says as he was still trying to find the magazines under Yosuke's bed. Masamune looked around at the room, spotting a picture that had Yukiko in it. It was a photo from last year, Narukami, Yosuke, Chie, Yukiko, Kanji, Rise, Teddie and Naoto. Masamune looked at Yukiko before looking at Yosuke in the photo. Masamune wondered as its horn started to glow.

20 seconds passed and Teddie finished scrounging under Yosuke's bed. "Strange. I can't find them. Oh well. I guess. We have to- '' Teddie turned around and saw Yosuke standing in front of him. "Y-Yosuke?!" Teddie yelled out, as he was standing there with a blank face. "N-no no! This is not what it looks like. My. My button fell off and rolled to your bed!" Teddie said, trying to make an excuse. But Yosuke said nothing, just looking at Teddie. As Teddie tried to make more excuses within his first excuse, another Yosuke opened the door. "Yo Ted. Have you seen my…" Yosuke said as he saw there was another Yosuke in his own room.

As soon as Yosuke saw himself in his own room. He panicked and left his room in a hurry, closing the door behind him and holding it closed while Teddie was inside. "What the? Another Yosuke? But who is that Yosuke?" Teddie said to himself before the Yosuke he saw in front of him glowed green and turned into a black creature revealing to be just Masamune. Teddie was amazed by this strange magic Masamune did. While Teddie commanded Masamune to transform into many things in Yosuke's room, Yosuke called one of his friends. Kanji Tatsumi was what was in his mind at the time, so he called Kanji, and hoped that he answered his phone.

*KANJI'S POV*

Kanji was in his room working on a doll that resembles one of his friends. A doll with a blue jacket and cap, was what he was working on, and was almost finished. All he needs to do now is to sew in the last stitch carefully. Unfortunately his concentration was ruined by a sudden ring from his phone and accidentally went over what he wanted to sew in, and pierced the eye of the doll, ripping it out, as it was ruined. "Dammit!" Kanji said angrily as he looked at his phone to see who was calling and see that of course. It was Yosuke. He answered his phone anyways, "Yeah what?" Kanji asked angrily and annoyed but all he heard was Yosuke whispering "K-Kanji. Listen.. I need you to come over to my house and deal with this mess for me! It's.. There's another me in my room! And Yukiko's pet! Look just come get it!" Kanji was going to hang up on how absurd it was until Yosuke mentioned something about Masamune. With no motivation to fix the doll he messed up on, he told Yosuke he'll be over by his house, and then gets dressed with the intention of "benting" the friend that called him.

Kanji walks over to Yosuke's house and knocks on the door. When the door opened, Yosuke was in a rush. "Thank god you're here Kanji! Teddie will tell you everything I got to head to work, thank you and goodbye!" Yosuke said as he dashed off, leaving behind a confused Kanji, until he went inside Yosuke's house where Teddie in his human form was babying Masamune. "So. What's going on here? Where's the clone Yosuke was talking about?" Kanji said sarcastically until Teddie showed him what's what. "I present to you Kanji. Not Yosuke!" Teddie proudly says as he tosses Masamune in the air unexpectedly causing the creature to fall flat on its face. "Whoops' ' Teddie said as the black creature got up on its hooves and looked at Teddie with a slight anger on its face. Teddie started to sweat by the look on its face as it transformed into Yosuke, surprising Kanji as he stepped back. Masamune then kicked Teddie here it hurts. "Gahhh!" Teddie said with a painful response after getting kicked in the nads as he was on his knees holding back the tears as he placed his hands on his crotch. "Holy…" Kanji said as he had no idea what had just happened. Masamune reverted back to its normal form, back to a small changeling with straight green hair, a black body, with big eyes. "Hey Ted. You don't mind if I-" Kanji was interrupted as Teddie responded quickly "Take Masamune! Let me agonize in peace!" Teddie said as Kanji carefully approached Masamune. The black creature hesitated for a sec before using its wings to fly towards Kanji. "Okay…" Kanji said before akwardling saying "Lets go, bug thing". Kanji walked out of Yosuke's house escorting Masamune back to the textile shop, while leaving Teddie behind as he was, wounded painfully.

The sky was becoming purple as the sun went down and the night started to come up. Kanji made it back home with Masamune. Confident that the creature would follow him back. He made a quick announcement to his mom saying that he is home, all the while keeping Masamune out of her sight. Though It wasn't necessary as his mother was busy organizing one of the display shelves of the textile shop. His mother thought there was a fly in the house, considering how loud Masamune's wings are flapping in a quiet place.

Kanji successfully retreated back to his room with Masamune as the creature landed on his bed. "Alright. Now this is a first. I thought Yosuke-senpai was making stuff up. But now I've seen everything. He can transform. I wonder." Kanji began to think until he snapped out of it. "No, no! I can't do that. I mean. She isn't really here. But at the same time. It feels like she's here with me but…" Kanji circled around in his room as Masamune watched him talking to himself. And even though it was just himself, he lost to himself and the opportunity. " *sigh* Never mind. Someday. But not today." Kanji said to himself defeated as he lay down on his bed next to the creature. He wonders about his life until the creature starts to fly again, slowly moving to Kanji's workbench. Inspecting his craft, the creature saw the many dolls Kanji made. Some are just knitted dolls but some are similar to all of his friends but one, which is the one doll Kanji messed up on. The creature's curiosity increased as it got closer to the messed up doll with the blue hat and jacket, resembling one of Kanji's friends. It thought it was a chew toy considering the eye was torn up as the creature carefully holds the unfinished doll with its mouth, and begins to bite it with joy on its face. Kanji looked at Masamune and saw it was chewing on the unfinished doll, which caused Kanji to jump out of his bed and command Masamune to drop it. "No Masamune! Drop the doll!" Kanji yelled as Masumune did what he commanded.

Kanji inspected the slobbered doll, seeing the two holes on its body. Just how sharp are Masamune's teeth? "Great. It's really ruined." Kanji said expressing his disappointment. "I'll have to start all over again." Kanji said as he leaves the doll on his workbench. "Whatever. I'll try it again another day. Right now, I need to keep my strength up. Don't know what will be in front of me. Thugs, or anything." Kanji then began to do Push-ups quietly in the middle of his room, as Masamune was curious on what Kanji was doing. It began copying what Kanji is doing, using the bug-like wings Masamune has and despite it looking flimsy, the Changeling manages to stabilize itself. Before collapsing on the ground after doing 2 push ups. Or is it called wing-ups since it's using its wings to lift itself up?

No matter, the changeling then shifts into Kanji to suit this challenge. But when the real Kanji looked up from the strange glow in front of him... He became so shocked that he destabilized his form and thud on the floor. "What the hell?" Kanji exclaimed seeing an exact copy of himself but, the copy is wearing his school uniform. And Kanji himself wears his other clothes whenever it's Sunday or when there's no school. Still, it's freaky, and Yosuke wasn't kidding when he said something about... Being "another one of him" in his room…

Wait, if he could shape shift… "If you can do that. Then…" Kanji looked around his room, searching for a photo of Naoto. The photo he took the other day of her. And print it out soon after. "There it is.." Kanji then showed the photo to Masamune. "Transform into this!" Kanji pointed at the Photo of Naoto. So Masamune did, but…

Masamune transformed into the exact copy of the photo Kanji was holding. Kanji looked at the other copy Photo Masamune transformed into.. Stunned silence.. Before speaking again.. "Uhh. I meant the person 'IN' the photo!" Kanji pointed at the Photo of Naoto. So, Masamune did so, and shape shifted into Naoto Shirogane.

Kanji couldn't believe it. It's like, if Naoto came to his room. That blue coat. Those Blue pants, the shoes. Even that hat she wears. But.

Is the chest…

…

"U-umm.. Kanji?" Naoto spoke.. No Masamune spoke.. But the voice. It even sounds like Naoto. Despite not meeting or seeing Naoto for the first time! Or, did it create a voice to match hers in a similar tone? Still. There's one that remains.

As Kanji ignored his name being called by Masamune, he sticks his hands in front and slowly towards the copy of Naoto's chest. It's covered in that clothing she wears and wanted to take it off. But before he could get a button to detach… He backed away

"No no no no no no no no! Switch back! Switch back! Switch back to normal dammit!"

Kanji commanded as Masamune went back to its small four legged black body. And holes on its horn.

"Dammit. I can't do that! I can't!" Kanji said to himself. He looks at the creature and now sees the cute big eyed creature in front of him. "The real Naoto must be at the Police Station." Kanji assumed. "Come on. I'm taking you to Naoto!" Kanji picked up Masamune tightly and carefully as he walked out of his home. Luckily his mom closed up shop and it's night outside, meaning he can get to the Police Station with no problems. Besides, people might give him weird stares if they see him carrying a creature that's not the norm…

Kanji seemed to be walking a bit faster. Probably because he can't stay with Masamune. Knowing Masamune's shape shifting power. And its possibilities with it. He couldn't handle it and decided to give it to that was the plan until he encountered Rise.. "Oh Kanji! What are you doing here alone? Is that Masamune?" Rise questioned. "Uh Yeah.. Yosuke gave it to me." Kanji answers. "So he decided to give it away. That jerk. That's Yukiko-Senpai's pet! And he gives it away to you?" Rise ranted. "What? You want it?" Kanji questioned..

"Yes! I want to have Yukiko's pet! It's so cute!"

"Cute? Well if you say so.. If you want you can take it."

Kanji offers Masamune to Rise.. Once again, the black creature was weary.. Almost don't want to go with another one that's not Yukiko. But it begins to calm down as Rise begins to pet it.. Calming it down… "Oh right. I never got to-" Kanji attempted to pet Masamune but it broke free from his grasp by flying and growling at him. Kanji backed away 2 steps as Masamune stared at him with a growl. "Come on. What gives! You get to pet it but I don't?" Kanji rants.. "Go home, Kanji. I'll take care of Masamune now." Rise says, as Kanji does so, grumbling under his breath… "Alright Masamune. You're with me now. Let's have a slumber party!" Rise exclaimed as she went back inside her home, the tofu shop 'Maryku Tofu"

*10 days until Golden Week*

Chie showed up to school with her energy reenergized, as her friend Yukiko showed up as well. "So uh Yukiko. Had a goodnight sleep?" Chie questioned. "Yep. I feel good as ever. But. I wonder if Yosuke still has Masamune?" Yukiko wondered as right on time. Yosuke showed up. "Yo! Yosuke! You still have Masamune right?" Chie said to Yosuke. "No. I gave it to Kanji." Yosuke answered, which caused a gasp from Yukiko. "Yosuke-Kun! I trusted Masamune with you!" She exclaimed, while Yosuke defended himself why he gave the changeling pet away to Kanji. "It transformed into you? Likely story." Chie finds Yosuke's story bizarre. But just when Yosuke attempted to convince Chie and Yukiko, Kanji showed up.

"Hey guys. What are you talking about?"

"Good timing, Uh Kanji? You have Masamune right?" Yosuke questioned.

"I gave it to Rise." Kanji answered

"How could you Kanji-Kun!" Yukiko gasped

The four get into a back and forth argument about why Kanji and Youske gave away Masamune. But it broke when Rise came all tired. "Rise! You look dead tired!" Chie exclaimed. "O-oh.. Hey guys…" Rise greeted her four friends finding the energy to stay awake.. "Is Masamune alright?" Yukiko questions as Rise answers with a nod. Yukiko gave a sigh of relief. "School is about to start. Uh Kanji. You share the same classroom with her, yeah? Take her. We gotta get to our own classroom" Yosuke said as he, Chie, and Yukiko hurry to class. "Come on Rise. I'm not letting Kashiwagi, bitch about me being late." Kanji Carry Rise to class…

*LAST NIGHT: RISE'S POV*

When Rise took Masamune to her room she took a long good look at Masamune. Examining her further. Masamune was weary of Rise, but didn't do anything, just simply stared. "Your hair is really beautiful Masamune. A bit messy. But Beautiful. Hang on there." Rise went to her drawer to find a brush, as for the next minute. Rise was brushing Masamune's long green hair… Gently stroking down as the green hair was slowly becoming more straighter. All the while humming a tune to herself, possibly one of her songs she sang before. "There we go. See Masamune. Your hair is flowing beautifully now!" Rise showed a small portable mirror that reflected Masamune's image.

But as Masamune stared deeply into that Mirror. It flew up and hissed. Shocking her, she moved back as Masamune began attacking her Mirror. "Masamune! What are you doing! My Mirror!" Rise cried out as Masamune destroyed her small portable mirror. Before turning around to hiss at Rise.

Though she was surprised at the creature's sudden behavior, change. It didn't stop her from scolding it. "Bad Girl! Bad!" Rise yelled out, which caused Masamune to stop hissing, and fell back into a scared turtle look. Rise quickly apologized. "I'm sorry..! Don't be like! I love you.." Rise said, getting back into her cheery self. Which then perked up Masamune, becoming happy.. "Now come're cutie!" Rise gets close to Masamune and begins planting kisses on its face. But after 4 kisses, Rise was seeing the world spin around her. "W-what?.. Oh no… Ugh… H-hang… Over.." Rise fainted and fell asleep on her front. Masamune went over to Rise, and returned a kiss on her cheek, before sleeping next to her..

*PRESENT TIME*

Dead tired as she was. Her friends were even surprised she could get up and get dressed in the morning. But no less, she was seriously tired. Infact, she was so tired, during lunch period, she passed out midway down the stairs, and fell on her right side. Some students who had heard that terrible noise or had witnessed Rise's crash, gathered around like crows to weaken prey. Or vultures.

"Look! Rise-Chan fell down! She fell down the stairs!"

"Wait, the most beautiful, and sexy idol fell down the stairs?!"

"Is she alright? Does she need mouth to mouth?"

"Someone should wake her up.."

"No! I can finally use this opportunity to find out what kind of underwear she wears! So I can give her the right one! And put it in her locker!"

"Alright assholes! Move it!" Kanji pushed his way forward, toward the crowd to move Rise on her back. Then. "Wake UP!" He sits Rise up before head butting her awake. "Aaarrrrrghhhh!" Rise snapped awake, reeling from the pain. "What the hell Kanji!" In retaliation, Rise slaps Kanji in the face. "Hey! It's your fault you decided to take a nap!" Kanji retorts. Before their argument could go further. The school bell ring.. "H-huh? Lunch is over? But I didn't eat yet!" Rise whined. "Ah cram it. You're an idol right? You probably don't eat much.." Kanji scoffs as he then pulls out a granola bar. "Here. This isn't much but it'll get you through.." Kanji gives Rise the Granola Bar. "Wow. Thanks Kanji." Rise says thankfully..

As for the students of Yasogami High…

"He got her to say 'Thank you!' Can't you believe that?"

"For a brute. He does have some sort of charm to him."

"Gah! I should've been the one. Why did I hesitate?!"

Students of Yasogami high murmur between their own friends. For the rest of the day. Rise was wide awake.

*AFTER SCHOOL*

The rest of the day went without a hitch. Rise was able to stay awake for the whole day. As she then meets with her friends at the entrance of the school. "Wow Rise. At the start. You were dead tired as hell. Now. It's like." Yosuke tried to find the right words. "I fully rested? Aww you care for me don't you Yosuke?" Rise smiled, making Yosuke blush a little. "U-umm. Yeah. Like that."

"Well. I'm glad you're feeling alright." Kanji happily says.. "Oh yeah. I should give Masamune out to someone right?" Rise said, disappointed as she wanted to Keep Masamune the next day. But, she's gotta she's gotta.

*SHOPPING DISTRICT*

The 6 friends head to Rise's home, the Marukyu Tofu. It was 7 but Yosuke had work at Junes today.. But nonetheless, they went to her home and waited outside as Rise headed to her room to grab Masamune..

But what was behind her room..

It was suddenly a mess. And.. YOSUKE? He's using her underwear over his head?! Rise was surprised as she yelled out his name, reacting to it. With a raging fury, she grabbed a nearby object, then..

"GET OUT OF MY ROOM!"

Rise throws the object hard, turning out to be a small bottle of perfume. With such precision, it hit Yosuke right between the eyes, as he stumbled back. Tripping and hitting the back of his head on a dresser.

But, when it did.

A green flash of fire consumed Yosuke. Revealing to be.

Masamune…

"WH-WHAT THE FUCK!?" Rise stated at the now unconscious creature quickly going to it, and see what damage she did to it. "Rise? What's going on in there?" It was Yukiko..

Shit!

"Um. Umm.. Everything is fine! I found a mouse in the closet!" Rise lied to avoid the possibility of her coming to her room.

"A Mouse? Where is it? I'll get it out!"

"No no! It's fine. I got it out!"

"Oh.. Alright!"

Yukiko must've gone back. Which is good. She needed to get Masamune to wake up… More importantly, see how much damage she did to the poor creature. "Come on Masamune! Wake up!" Rise panicked. She can't be responsible for killing Yukiko's pet! She can't!

Just then. Masamune opens its eyes. With a sigh of relief. "You're alright.. Thank god.." Rise rubs Masamune's pain in the back of its head.

Some time later, about 2 minutes, Rise picks up Masamune and heads outside. Just as she was about to give it back to Yukiko. "Wait Rise-San" Naoto called out.. "Shouldn't it be my turn to have Masamune?" Naoto reminded me. "Oh right. You were the one who never got introduced to her." Rise realized. "A her? I still think it's a guy" Kanji stated which was ignored… "I got the gist of Yukiko's 'pet'. You found it at the Amagi inn right?" Naoto deduces. Yukiko answered with a nod. "Alright.. I think I know what I should do. Hand Masamune to me." Naoto commanded. Rise does so, as once more, Masamune is wary of the Prince detective. Before it became calm as Naoto laid her hands on the creature.. "oh right. There's something I need to tell everyone but uh.. I'll do it when we're all together at school." Rise realized

"Uh sure… Wait, don't we need to tell Teddie too about it?"

"Oh yeah. Then how about we meet up at Junes? Like we always do?"

Kanji suggested. All agreed to it by a nod.

*YASOINABA: NIGHT/ NAOTO'S POV*

Night has come to Inaba, and like all other nights. It is quiet. As it should be. For Naoto, she went to where Yukiko met the changeling..

The Amagi Inn…

First she searched around, if she recalled correctly, as Yukiko said one night calling her… She doesn't know how she got into the Amagi Inn and wandered into the supply closet…

Still, it is something she needed to solve herself.. Not only that, the origins of the Changelings. Naoto looked around the building, seeing that it was impossible to find an entry way. Unless.. Naoto finds herself next to the walls without a roof. Meaning that she must be at the hot springs area, judging by the steam rising. Perhaps Masamune flew through there..

Thinking… She had an idea. A stupid one. The kind that isn't like her, but it seems to be the only way to know for sure… So she strapped a small Video Camera to the side with tape.

"Now. Masamune, fly over and head into the supply closet of the Amagi Inn."

Naoto commanded. Though she says that this is part of her private investigation. It's not without a few, hiccups…

"What the hell is that?!

"Is that some sort of bug?!

"HOLY SHIT I THOUGHT THE HOT SPRINGS WAS RELAXING!"

Unfortunately for Naoto. She failed to check to see if there was anyone in the hot springs. And what followed after. Was chaos in the inn.. She heard the panic and screaming, caused by Masamune's search for the Supply Closet.

Naoto cringed from what she had done.. She wouldn't be surprised if Yukiko was-

"I trust you with Masamune and this is how you use her like this?!"

Yukiko yells at Naoto. Holding the Camera Naoto strapped to Masamune…

"I'm sorry"

Naoto was all she could say, bowing in her apology. "I was just trying to figure out how Masamune got into the supply closet when you first found her..". Naoto said, with a disappointing tone… "Why didn't you say so?" Yukiko answered, which made Naoto look up. "H-huh?!"

Yukiko explained to Naoto how she found out how Masamune got into the supply closet. Turns out, Masamune chewed through the fusuma walls outside. Which then navigated the halls, undetected by how busy the Amagi Inn was. And one of the staff members, or Yukiko herself must have not closed the supply closet properly, which explains how Masamune got in..

…..

Naoto feels like a dumbass just now. For not thinking of that as another possibility …

*Some minutes later*

Naoto was eventually given back, Masamune, after clearing things up. Soooo, Noato has found out the "How" now she just needs to know the "Why".. If she recalls…

Every Time either of her friends has Masamune. They come to school dead tired.. And she must find out why.. That's why she's taking it to the Police Station to analyze it..

That room should be empty… And there should be no one in the lobby…

Probably….

*POLICE STATION; EVIDENCE RESEARCH*

Turning on the lights, Naoto sets Masamune on a table as she grabs some tools nearby… Naoto obtains a sample from the Changeling's fluid's from its mouth and begins her research.

But during her work, Masamune became curious about its surroundings. Often leaving the table to be curious about the items and objects around the room, whenever Naoto looks away to work away on her personal research of the Changeling. Naoto would then look behind when she heard the slightest noise. Only to find Masamune on the table, sitting there. After 6 subtle noises. She hears a sound of something breaking. Masamune knocked over 2 glass jars, of collected evidence that was for another case…

She dropped what she was doing to quickly salvage the collected evidence into 2 new jars in a cabinet. And placed it back to where it was before it got knocked over… Sighing with relief, Naoto looked back at Masamune who was now sitting on the table where she put the changeling. Naoto looked around and see the many objects and fragile objects in the "Evidence Research room" before groaning…

"There's too many important things in here.. Dammit.. I can't do my research on this thing without it being curious.."

Naoto groaned, face palming herself. Eventually, she sighs and looks to Masamune. "Yukiko's pet. Why are my friends dead tired after taking that thing with them?" Naoto questions herself. Staring at the pitch black creature. For some odd reason, Naoto turned off the lights, and noticed that Masamune's green big eyes glowed in the dark..

"CREEPY"

Naoto turned on the lights again before going back to the table.. "There are a lot of things I want to know about you.. But I can't really do much if you keep moving around.." Naoto talks with the creature.

Like the damn thing could understand what she's saying… Naoto just took Masamune, turned the lights off and left the Police Station. She takes Masamune to her home.

She then sets Masamune to the living room, and retires to her room, to get ready for bed. Setting aside her hat and the school uniform she wore the whole day. And removing the binds that she had wrapped around her breasts. Sighing with relief.. "Finally. I can breathe a bit more properly.." Naoto changed into her blue Pajamas, and was about to head into bed, a noise is heard outside her room. With no time for such thoughts, she went out to investigate the noise. Knowing that she had already locked the doors and windows, no one could have broken in unless they entered forcibly. Who made that noise?

The sound was heard again, this time..

From the Kitchen?

Naoto found the source of the sounds, and it would seem, Masamune raided her fridge and was attempting to chew through packaged meat, courtesy of JUNES.. She calculated how much stuff was thrown to the floor caused by the black creature.. Not much and surprisingly, they didn't break, because all Masamune knocked over was a Toaster, and a milk jug. Surprisingly they made a lot of noise. Probably because of how quiet it is inside her home…

But what catches Naoto's interest is that.. Is Masamune hungry? Yukiko never said anything about its eating habits. Or any special food for the creature… Unless she counts Teddie as a special creature.. But no matter what, Naoto walked up to Masamune. "Masamune. Do you want me to open it for you?" Naoto asked as Masamune looked at her and dropped the package meat. Half covered in its slobber, Naoto removed the plastic packaging and picked up the meat.

"Do you want this?"

Naoto asked as Masamune perked up. See it's behavior. Naoto wonders… "Masamune. SIT!" As commanded, Masamune sits. "ROLL OVER." Masamune followed as commanded. But the third one..

"SPEAK."

As soon as Naoto commanded Masamune to speak. It changed into its last owner after quickly gulfing itself into green flames…

"WH-WHAT THE HELL!?" The sudden change into Rise spooked her as she fell back and landed on her bottom. Dropping the raw meat on the floor. Naoto had many questions going through her head.

Did.. Masamune transformed into… Rise? The thing.. It looked like Rise, it was even wearing the Yasogami Uniform. Could it be?…

"Hello!" The thing said with Rise's voice. Before it looked down at the raw meat on the floor. Picking it up and beginning to eat it with the body Masamune transformed into… Getting over the initial shock of this discovery.. It was..

"INTERESTING.."

Masamune finished eating the Raw meat as Rise. It turned back into the small black creature. It seems satisfied from the raw meat. And surprisingly, it doesn't want more. Usually, when wild animals, are given meat, they want more. Naoto guessed it wasn't part of them… As she tried to think more, Masamune broke her concentration and was right on her lap. Staring eye to eye, Masamune suddenly tackles her. "Wah!" Then it begins to lick Naoto's face. "H-Hey! I.. I wasn't ready..! Stop that! It. It tickles!" Naoto pleaded, trying not to chuckle as she feels Masumune's slimy saliva being licked on her face. Eventually she gave in and chuckled at this tickling sensation, before telling Masamune to stop licking her face. But still, this warrants further study.

It looks like this calls for an Investigation!

Right after Naoto gets some sleep. She would but Masamune wanted her attention, and followed to the bedroom. From the way its acting, it looks like Masamune wants Naoto to play with it. Naoto was unsure what to do but tries to think of something. If it does have dog like behavoirs then.. Naoto crouches down and begins to pet Masamune. It purred from the touch of Naoto's hand on its head. Before Naoto begins to rub her hands on its face. Woah.. It's facial structures.. It reminds her of, horses, more specifically a pony from pictures, Wild West movies, or that one TV show they sometimes air on Sunday, the one with talking colorful horses.. There's no denying it, though to be fair, in some angles one wouldnt be able to know what kind od species is it because of its pitch black body. But when touched you can feel the bone structure around it..

"Ah!" Once more, Masamune continues to lick Naoto, feeling the ticking sensation on her face. She couldn't help but laugh a bit before asking it to stop. Naoto doesn't know why, but she feels, joy looking at the creature. Though it's origins is unknown. She would investigate further in her free time. For now, she would give her time, and love to Masamune. But Like many who had kept Masamune. Naoto begins to feel, dizzy. Confused, she feels like someone slipped her something that is supposedly ment to "Calm her down". And she was offered something like that in the past, but she wold always reject them.

But now, it felt like… It Felt… Like… It…. Felt… Like…

Naoto fell asleep the floor…

*NAOTO'S DREAM*

Naoto had a strange dream. Her dreams are usually something personal to her, something related to her shadow now turned Persona. Or anything in regards to her life. But this dream…

She was inside a cave of sorts.. Alone in the dark.. And only armed with her Gun. She controlled her breathing and try to find her way out of here. Walking around the darkness made her feel a bit scared. But nothing could get worse, right?

She found… Narukami… Dead…

Cause of death… A bullet…. To the head…..

…

….

…..

Around her, green eyes begin to open, and many. Many glowing green eyes begin to open around her. She aimed but couldn't find herself to pull the trigger. Or call out her Persona.. They were all staring at her

And..

And..

And…

"WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!"

The creatures, ate her.

Piece by Piece…

…

*9 Days until Golden Week*

Gasping for breath, Naoto woke up from that insane dream… Just what the hell was that?! Naoto thought… Looking around, she finds herself, on the floor in her bedroom.

"What time is it?"

Naoto looked at her clock, seeing it was Four'O Clock the morning. Specifically, Four Thirty Two…Looking around again, she see's Masamune sleeping soundly.

Just what the hell is Masamune?

*LATER*

After showering for 10 minutes to be alone with her thoughts, she gets dressed into her school Uniform, and put on her blue detective hat. Naoto carries Masamune after wrapping her body to keep hidden from any people who have woken up early. And what Naoto didn't realize til now. She was very light..

Heading towards the Amagi Inn, she was going to ask the overnight staff members to keep watch of Masamune until Yukiko wakes up, but she didnt have to ask further. "Naoto-kun? What are you doing here?" Yukiko asked, wearing her pink Kimono. Naoto was surprised to see Yukiko also up early in the morning.

"Yukiko-san, what are you doing up?"

"Oh, I decided to volunteer myself overnight working with the staff of the inn"

"I see.. Well then. I came to give Masamune back to you."

Naoto offers Masamune back to Yukiko. Which Yukiko happily accepts and puts gently on the ground. "Masamune? Who's an adorable girl? Yes you are! Yes you are!" Yukiko pets Masamune as the creature purrs. Naoto still wonders what kind of creature is. And looking at it. She never realized that it resembles an actual pony. No, Philly to be specific. "Well. That's all I came here to do. I'll be going back home." Naoto turned around to leave. "Alright. Thanks for bringing back Masamune!" Yukiko said waving goodbye to Naoto.

*STREET*

Naoto had some time to think for herself. If she wanted to know what creature or species Masamune is. She'll have to conduct her own research.. She'll have to find books that contain info on the things Yukiko has for a pet… What better way to find that info is..

Yasogami High Library…

*EARLIER*

As the school day begins Naoto stopped by to at least say hello to her friends by waiting at the school gate like any other that waited for their friend. The first friend that reached the school gate was Kanji.. "Huh? Naoto? Uhh. What's up?" Kanji greeted. "Hello Kanji-Kun.. Did you sleep well?" Naoto asked. "Uh yeah. Say Naoto, there's something I needed to tell you. Since you're smart and. You can figure stuff out! Something about Masamune!" Kanji said, but just before he could say it.

"That won't be necessary.. I already knew"

"H-Huh? Wait. Then did you-"

"Yo Kanji-Kun! Naoto-Kun!"

Chie had arrived and approached the two. Breaking the conversation Naoto and Kanji were having… "Senpai? Don't you walk with Yukiko?" Kanji questioned. "Yeah. But I was told that Yukiko was busy with Masamune for the moment. But it's fine. I'm sure she'll make it to school on time." Chie said with confidence… "Well. I should get going. School's about to start." Naoto begins to leave. "But we only have-" Kanji interrupted himself, as he soon walked over himself to the school building… "Yeah sure. Leave a girl by herself.." Chie said with a sarcastic tone.

"Hey Chie!" Yosuke arrived..

"Oh. Hey Yosuke…"

*MUCH LATER*

Naoto had used her Lunch time to head into the library to find certain books relating to Yukiko's pet. Though none matched the description. She found a book and the only book in the Library… And it happens to be in English… Luckily for Naoto, she can read English… The book pertains to the history, and legend of the same creature Naoto had taken care of. "Changeling.." Sitting in a chair next to a table, she begins to read.

Though the contents of the book she read about the "Changeling" had interesting details about its race, myth, and legend about it. She had read in that book that in European Folklore, it is believed that Fairies or some sort of other supernatural being would replace a human child with a Changeling. And that Changeling would appear sickly or deformed oddly while disguised as the same human child that was taken away by the fairies.

Another description of the Changeling in Irish Folklore, it shared a similarity with European Folklore. But the changeling creatures are associated with fairies known as the "Good People" or "Sidhe". They believe the fairies abduct human infants and replace them with a fairy child.

Norse mythology, the concept of "Changelings' ' was known as "Troll Children' '. And believed Trolls would sometimes kidnap human children and leave behind their offspring. These troll children were often described as ugly or misshapen.

Before Naoto could read further.. The school bell rings.. Dammit..

…

"Umm excuse me. Can I borrow this book?"

As the school day continued, Naoto had already have plans on what to do once her teacher at the final class dismissed all students..

*3 DAYS BEFORE THE START OF GOLDEN WEEK*

For the remaining days until golden week Yukiko had graciously given Masamune to her friends so the creature could form a bond with it. But everytime Masamune is given to that same friend. They come to school tired except when it's Sunday, because that's when whoever had Masamune to sleep in…

*EVENING NAOTO'S HOME*

When Naoto finally received Masamune from one of her friends that had the creature. She used the creature, mainly, for the sole purpose of researching what Masamune is.. From the book she was reading, to some searches on the internet.. And from what Kanji and Yosuke had said to her not long ago. Naoto deduced that Masamune was a Changeling. But this one was unlike any other Changeling. From what she had gathered, Changelings have often replaced only infants and children. Interpretations relating to other such creatures, from Fairies, to Trolls… Yet, Masamune… Everytime someone gives it love and attention. The body would be drained of energy and tired. She had experienced it beforehand. And she assumed that it was because her friends didn't get a good night's rest. And though she was tired after giving Masamune her love and attention not long ago... But she had taken something that kept her awake throughout the whole day. Still… She'll need more research..

That means. She has to give what the Changeling wants..

Love…

Looking at Masamune, and the creature looking at her with a curious expression. She picked up the creature and went into her room with it…

And gave it. Her Love…

She felt tired… And fell asleep.. Next to Masamune..

*1 DAY UNTIL GOLDEN WEEK; CHIE'S POV*

Today, it rained non-stop. Throughout the whole day, until thunderstorms begin to strike… The group of friends stayed home, with the exception of Yosuke, and Teddie, who had work Today in Junes.

But as for the one who had Masamune yesterday. Was Chie. Afraid of Lighting, and so was Masamune, she bravely steps outside with a raincoat and boots on. So that she can give back Masamune to Yukiko. For she had promised her back her pet yesterday… But everytime lighting strikes, she cowers into a corner of a building or alleyway to make sure there are no other lighting strikes… And she needed to have a tight grip on Masamune so it wouldn't break free and run away from Chie's grasp.

Finally, she made it to the Amagi Inn, where awaited in the front entrance. Was Yukiko.

"Welcome to the Amagi- OH! Chie, you're here! With Masamune!"

Yukiko said happily at the sight of her best friend. "Hey Yukiko. Like I promised. Masamune is to be returned to you. Right?" Chie hands over Masamune to Yukiko. "Thank you Chie! Thank you! My brave Knight Prince!" Yukiko said excitedly… Chie was curious by what she meant by "brave knight prince"?

Wait…

Chie wonders if…

…

…..

"Umm Yukiko?" Chie spoke up as Yukiko focused her sight on her. She wanted to say something, but.. Drop it.. "Never mind. Have a nice day!" Chie then turned around to exit but the thunder storms struck at the worst timing… Which caused her to turn around and look at Yukiko again. "Actually, can I stay here for a while? If you don't mind! I mean I TOTALLY understand if I'm kinda forcing myself to your place! After all I just came to give you back-"

"You can stay."

Chie was surprised by Yukiko's answer. Though she knew it was kinda wrong to stay at her family's Inn. Considering she was more of a guest in this case. But she's her friend. Her best friend!

"Weelll. Alright!"

Chie happily accepts Yukiko's invitation. Until there's no more lighting… At least..

*HOURS LATER:*

The storm lingered the whole day.. the dark clouds begin to darken. While Yukiko still had work to do, Chie soon volunteered herself to help around the Amagi Inn. Not wanting to see her friend work while she sits around doing nothing. Of course she needed Permission by the Manager of the Inn. Fortunately, she was granted Permission… Replacing her current attire for a White Kimono..

While not many guests have visited to stay at the Amagi Inn. There was still work around the Inn to be done. After all, there are guests who've booked the Inn to stay for a number of days.

*EVENING*

Finally they were free from taking care of the patron guests of the Amagi Inn. Taking care of the needs of all guests was more taxing than what Chie thought… Then again, when has a job ever been easy? Especially back then last year..

Last Year..

Inside Yukiko's Room where Masamune eagerly waited. Chie and Yukiko had talked about their past lives together.. Last Year, Their demons, the friends they made. And…

That Day..

Chie never noticed before, but Yukiko's been giving her some "looks". Was she? Looking at her? She did it multiple times as a matter of fact. But she didn't think anything of it, up until now when they went inside Yukiko's room. She was about to bring that up. Until..

*BOOM*

The Inn was experiencing a Power outage, after that Lighting Strike, Spooking Chie

"Hang on Chie! I think." Yukiko was somehow able to navigate her dark room, and found a flashlight which she turned on, and a small night light. "Ah. Thanks Yukiko!" Chie said with relief. Yukiko only nodded as she began to possibly leave the room…

"Huh? Yukiko where are you-"

"I'm going to restart the power. Though the staff might already be there. But they tend to. Have trouble with it."

"W-Wait! Let me come with you!"

"Alright.. But turn on the night light. Masamune loves to look at it."

"Ah. Right!"

Chie turned on the portable night light which illuminated an orange glow. Which got Masamune's attention.. "Come Chie. With me." Yukiko said as Chie answered with a nod.

And they left the room.. Leaving Masamune alone with the light..

*MASAMUNE'S POV*

Masamune was left in Yukiko's room, with only a portable night light alone. The building a few minutes ago had experienced a power outage.. And It's taking a bit of the staff a long time to restart the power. Or Yukiko and Chie to come back..

But the night light eventually turns off by itself, leaving Masamune in the dark… The creature looked around in the dark as if it could still see its surroundings…

Until another thing captured its attention..

Yukiko's TV turned on, as the rain continued to hit the window.

After 2 static seconds, the picture on the TV revealed a throne with another creature whose body is also pitch black as night, with green hair, sitting. The creature opened its eyelids revealing Yellow eyes. Masamune and the creature in the Tv started, not saying a word or noise. Until, Masamune's head began to hurt as a voice was playing in her head.

"I am you. And you are me. We are one in the same. Queen Chrysalis. Wake up! And do what you are made to do!"

That name.. It ringed in Masamune's head so loudly that it began to whimper before hissing. Then.. Then…

*CRASH*

Masamune charged at the TV, destroying it with a single ram. Glass of the TV screen cracked. Masamune fell unconscious.. And the headache stopped. But what the hell was that?

The lights came up as the power was restored..

No surprise Yukiko was shocked to find Masamune on the ground and her TV screen cracked..

*GOLDEN WEEK SECOND DAY*

Yesterday was the first day of Golden Week, Naoto was Masamune's caretaker. As Naoto was able to get more research out of Masamune at the Police Station. They were about to meet up at Junes with her friends til Yukiko showed up and wanted to pick up Masamune. Naoto gladly gives back Masamune to Yukiko. Holding the creature they both head into Junes. Wait.. Does Junes have a policy regarding pets? It should be fine if it's on a leash. No wait.

"Naoto. Come here." Yukiko went into an Alley way.

"Masamune. Change into Nananko-Chan!" As commanded Masamune changed into Nanako. Now they can enter Junes without suspicion.

*JUNES*

Before Naoto and Yukiko could go see their friends up on the rooftop. Yukiko asked Naoto to help her find a new TV. Since Masamune cracked hers one night with Chie.. The three head towards the electronics department where many TV's were on display.

"So Naoto, what TV should I get? One that's cheap or expensive?" Yukiko asked, shifting her focus on Naoto. Masamune became curious, moving away from Yukiko and Naoto, while disguised as Nanako. Before something catches her eye. Turning to one of the many TV's on display.

Masamune could've sworn there was something on the TV. Something, glowing…

Something…

Something…

Something…

The thing that grabbed Masamune's attention appeared only for the creature's eyes.

In the creature's eyes. There was that figure again. It looked like her but..

What the?

"Now is the time. Now do what you are created to do! Do what your queen says!"

The headache returned, it was unbearable…

"Umm. Excuse me? Little girl? Are you alright?"

An employee of Junes came to Masamune, fooled by the disguise. Until Masamune looked at the employee with anger on his face. Then. Masamune revealed its true self.

"Ggyyaaaaaaahhhhh!"

Masamune has gone berserk..