The following story is a [FAN-FICTION]. Strike Witches are all owned by Humikane Shimada, Kazuhiro Takamura, Project World Witches, and KADOKAWA. Please support the official franchise.
Witch Musume Re:RISE
Loose Ends II - The Finnish Reunion is Tough for a Juutilainen
SPECIAL OPENING - Full Moon, Full Life by Azumi Takahashi ft. Lotus Juice (Persona 3 RELOAD)
*Theme Plays*
The theme starts in a sky blue and white monochrome where Keiwa was seen walking down the streets of Shousetsu, Frankfurt, Yasoba, Tokyo, Gaeta, and Paris through every transitions with every steps he makes as he looked up into the sky to see the single contrail coming from the Witch as the view transitions to show the overview of Helsinki with Eila whispering into Eihn's ears as their mouth on their faces were covered with blue bloodstain as the view zooms down onto the city streets where Aurora was seen on her Tank Strikers as she was pulling a large wagon with the Platoon members, passing through the stoplight until it shows Talon jumping off the building as it transitions into him having black angel-like wings before transitioning to the next scene.
It's full moon again
Crazy how time flies
When I wonder, if the path is in the right direction
The next scene shows Eila sitting alone at the table as she was seen doing a radio talk show as she was casually talking in a room as she looked at the glass to show the reflection of herself where instead of talking though the radio mic, she was seen using her tarot card where she becomes saddened but emotionless where the room is all completely monochrome and bloodied everywhere as it transitions to the other side where the tarot card shows Death on front.
But I do believe
Things come to life by accident
When you and me's on, sounds like it's meant to be
Then the next scene shows Eihn walking down the streets of Helsinki's sidewalks during the light snowfall as he was with Aurora. He had a small smile until he looked at the reflection of himself while Aurora kept walking. But the reflection shows himself all bloodied up and behind him was corpses of fallen soldiers until his eyes blinks in his perspective where he was seen in the other side where all the corpses became undead as they were grabbing his legs, dragging him down into a pool of blood until he falls underwater, closing his eyes.
(Wake Up!)
Mistakes made when things fall apart
(Get Up!)
What matters at the end is how you left a mark
(But Wait Up!)
Fire in my soul, Fire in my heart
'Till you see me on the other side of stars, on point
Then the next scene shows Aulis walking with Eini Luukkanen in the Finnish Air Base where their walk left a trail of cracked glass as it shows the Battle of Helsinki where it shows the Neurois invading the Finnish airspace. Then the next scene shows Talon sitting alone in a dark space as he sat in a chair reversed until Sevens appears from the darkness as she proceed to hug him from behind as Talon begins to have a sinister smirk on his face as it transitions to where it shows the deceased members of the Vartijat on the floor all around him with Sevens was not around. Then the next scene shows Sanya flying through the darkness as she reaches towards the light where Eila was waiting for him as their hands were reaching closer as the scene transitions.
Oh the journey starts but where will it first end?
No one's sure what lies ahead, be bold and brave
(Stand Up!)
Roads may be rough and tough, though it will lead somewhere
(Nothin' Easy! Get up and go get it, go!)
Then the next scene shows Eihn rushing into the battle as he slams his shield to create spikes of ice as next shows Aurora moving forward with her Tank Strikers as she fires her tank cannon as the ground explodes on impact. Then it shows Eila flying through the explosion's smoke as she soared into the air as she fired her weapon. The next shows where Eila shifting her head towards Sanya where she flies past her as she fired her multiple rockets from her Fligerhammer as she shouted at her allies until the scene transitions to show Aulis looking towards the blue skies as the wind's breeze blew his hair as the next scene transitions to show Alexandra, Eini, and the Suomisian Witches standing at the runway as they looked up into the full moon.
Sometimes this journey is about a chance
All the power destiny has all over us
Then the next scene shows the silhouette of Sevens in the black night sky with a full moon behind her as she was carrying a floating cube with a blue glowing crystal inside it until the moon begins to shut itself like an eye as it proceeds to shed drops of blood as it falls into a blood puddle as the puddle's reflection shows Talon appearing in it as he has black wings.
No matter how far (No matter how far)
How you'll go (How you'll go, How you'll go)
How long you may last
(Drop tears, no time to waste)
It's your life
(Gotta get your life, go get it)
Burn Your Dread
Next shows Eihn kneeling on the ground, gritting his teeth as he holds his shield where around him shows corpses of himself until he gets support from Eila and Aurora to help him up. In front of them was Talon where he aimed his magic rifle at him. Then, the two would proceed to dash each other directly with Eila and Aurora following him as they would clash with each other until the scene transitions to the ending part where Eihn stood alone in the empty streets of Helsinki in the midst of snow the moment he had a snowflake on his hand and clenches it. He then saw Eila, Aurora, Aulis, Eini, and Alexandra waiting for him. He then had a small smile as he rejoined them as it was no longer in a sky blue/white monochrome as it switches into full color as it zooms out to show the city of Helsinki with the sun rising as morning begins.
?/?/? Mindscape
Third Person POV
Within the mindscape through Eihn's vision. It was the aftermath of the Battle of Helsinki where Eihn and the other Vartijat members were seen outside of the mall which has turned into a civilian shelter during the midst of the endless blizzard. There was a discussion between Eihn and his fellow member and sharpshooter named Talon who were having a conversation. But not the friendly conversation that Eihn had hoped for… For some reason, Talon has grown doubtful and distrustful of the Vartijat's actions as their deeds were overshadowed by the Suomisian Witches once again…
"Talon… you must calm yourself. We've done what we did best. Protecting the civilians is all that matters." Eihn said to Talon as he had his magic rifle holstered on his back as he tightened his fists as he wasn't too happy about it.
"But it wasn't enough! The Witches, Eihn!" Talon continued as he was visibly mad. "The Witches have become more useful and competent than us humans on the ground! The Neurois were no match for us aside from the Witches of how they can defeat it that easily! We're useless, Eihn!"
"We're not." Eihn continued. "You need to understand! Our role as a Vartijat remains paramount! The people need our help!"
"Well, not anymore!" Talon continued. "They rather rely on the Witches than us. And look at you… You became a Witch's Slave!"
"T-Talon, please… We're humanity's hope and future of all Finland. The Witches helped, yes. But don't beat yourself up-" Eihn was interrupted.
"WE HAVE DONE NOTHING AS WE'RE SENT TO DIE ON THE BATTLEFIELD!" Talon retorted as this made Eihn flinched. "I quit… I'm done being a Vartijat."
"T-Talon! You can't be serious! Please… tell me you're joking… right?" Eihn tried to talk to him the moment Talon turned around.
"I'm not… I only wish to see the Vartijat fall. We aren't bred for combat. In this world, it's about the strong who survives… And I'll prove it to the Witches here that I'm the hope humanity needs. So… don't look after me anymore."
And so, Talon proceeded to leave as this pained Eihn as he failed to reason with him. He looked at his hand as he tightened it as he felt bad for himself. Yet, angry as well. And this proves to Eihn that he couldn't find a way to keep his whole team together as the Vartijat fell in the end as the reliance of Witches are needed more than ground soldiers or elite magic knights. He was ultimately forever an outcast of his own country where he was born and raised in.
1/4/2019 Forus Shopping Centre, Helsinki, Finland Morning - Clear Sky and Snow
First Person POV (Eihn)
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Mystic
I suddenly opened my eyes slowly where I felt some small bumps in the streets. But it turns out… We've already made it here. In the city of Helsinki, where my first battle against the Neuroi began. It also ended in my death because of my carelessness. But through some miracle… Aurora was the one who revived me from the edge of death. The endless blizzard that lasted for a year was finally over. But the people are still suffering as magic heaters were placed all around the city to provide warmth. But it wasn't enough as the cold was too strong because of the results. The endless blizzard was made through some magic anomaly that led to this happening. Buildings, vehicles, and unfortunate people were frozen over in the process. Some died because they had nowhere to go. We truly live in dark times. My name is Eihn… Eihn Juutilainen. I see myself as the descendant of both Aurora and Eila. How we got here in Helsinki was a long trip. From Italy to Poland… Sir Matt and Lady Shirley said they couldn't come with us as we had to take another transport plane that would lead us to the Finnish capital as they had other things to do. Of course… It was just me, Aurora, Alexandra, and Sanya. Sir Keiwa and Lady Mio went on separate paths as they went to France to help deliver a weapon to a certain Witch. However, this was Sanya's request which is why we're heading there. She told me that she wants to see Eila again and help the people that were suffering from the cold. Aurora wanted to check up on her sister, too. And so do I… But the problem is… both Aurora and Eila don't acknowledge me as the member of the Juutilainen. Isn't it obvious that their last name is part of the military lineage? But nevermind that, the APC that the Finnish army owns took us to a certain location where it was a shopping mall. But ever since the start of the endless blizzard as what people call "Fimbulvinter", this place has become a temporary military and civilian shelter where soldiers and Witches were gathered here to safeguard Finnish civilians who were lost and disoriented by the blizzard. The heavily armored vehicle stops as we finally get off. I took my shield with me as I had it holstered on my back…
"Feels strange coming back to our country after we've been away from home for such a long time." I said to myself as I saw the soldiers and Suomisian Tank Witches guarding this place. There were Witches flying in the air as well to conduct daily daytime patrols.
"Well either way, we're back here since this was our intended destination until the detour in Italy happened. But regardless, this is what Sanya wanted." Aurora said as she had the soldiers carry her Tank Strikers to have it stored safely. However, one of the soldiers then approached us. But not me… her.
"Ma'am. Please state your name and affiliation." The Finnish Soldier asked Aurora.
"Aurora Edith Juutilainen. Current member of the Typhoon Coffin Platoon. Affiliated with the Finnish Army Ground Forces 55th Suomus Battalion Unit." Aurora started her name as she managed to secure us an entrance.
"Very well, you may enter, Lieutenant Juutilainen." The Finnish Soldier said as we entered inside.
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Living with Determination -Iwatodai Mix-
As we headed inside the shopping mall… there was no mall music playing as everything here felt silent… There were civilians still remaining here as there were large tents with bunk beds, tables, and closed down shopping stores. Many of these people either lost their homes… or were unable to return because of the blizzard. Sure, the large chunk of ice within Helsinki still lingers but… the city is slowly recovering… albeit at an extremely slow pace.
"Mother? When will I go back home?" The child asked her mother.
"W-We don't know…" The mother said with uncertainty as we all watched to see of what's going on… it was just complete melancholic despair.
"So this is what your people have suffered since the blizzard? Never would I think I'd see it with my own eyes…" Alexandra said with concern as she has every right to do so.
"Sanya." I asked. "I assume Eila is around here?"
"I believe she is somewhere and… Ahh! She's in the plaza area!" Sanya noticed as she ran up ahead as I tried to tell her.
"D-Don't run ahead, Sanya!" We all ran to follow the Orussian Witch as we continued running.
But as soon as we headed into the main plaza area where the large christmas tree was still there and the fountain no longer works. But at this location the plaza has become the main focal point of local trades. From food, goods, and etc. But we did notice a familiar silver long haired girl wearing her Suomisian uniform and white long knee socks as she was seen on the table. But what I noticed is that she had a sign placed next to the table that reads, "The Juutilainen Life Consultation Services". There she was… Eila Ilmatar Juutilainen. She was on her seat as she was talking to an old man with a cane.
"Thank you, Miss Eila. Your insights have somehow broadened my horizons when it comes to my life choices." The old man thanked her.
"Please, pay it no mind. I'm just doing my best to give you better tips on how to live. Take care of yourself, okay?" Eila said to the old man as he nodded and left. That is until she noticed our presence the moment her eyes widened in surprise. "S-Sanya?"
"Eila!" Sanya rushed towards her as the two hugged each other in their embrace. It was a happy reunion, of course. Never would we ought to see them being with each other again for such a long time. "I… I missed you so much…"
"Yeah… I miss you as well. The endless blizzard kept us from leaving but now that it's over. I suppose we have a lot to catch up on, don't we?" Eila said to her best friend as she nodded.
"We indeed do… Even though I've already said before that you already have Aulis and yet… you're still attached to me." Sanya said in a slightly worried tone.
"B-But Sanya… You're all I have… I understand your reason that we can't be together just because I have my descendant. I just… I just wanted to see your face, that's all…" Eila said to her until she looked at us. "Ahh, sis… and you…"
"Hey, Eila." I continued casually. "I see you had your small reunion?"
"Of course, and you had to ruin it." Eila lightly glared at me.
"W-Why me? We only arrived here on Sanya's request!" I tried to explain this reason.
"Wait, Sanya? Is this true? You wanted to see me again?" Eila asked her as she nodded.
"I do. Though, that's not why I'm here… I want to help you in the restoration of Helsinki…" Sanya then blushed. "And go to the sauna…"
"Ahh, right. I had everyone's help in building the sauna on the second floor but… everyone started using it… Damn it… I should have made it girls only…" Eila spat lightly in small arrogance until…
"Need I remind you that building a second sauna will only cost resources, Eila?" The voice of a cool, and yet calm woman as she arrived along with the young man which I'm all too familiar with.
"E-Eini!" Eila said as she stood up as Sanya looked at her.
"Still providing people insights as usual?" Eini said to her.
"Y-Yeah… the people were feeling down so I thought I could try cheering them up with life insights." Eila said to her superior as she seemingly nodded.
"I see… As for you… You must be Eihn… Juutilainen, yes?" Eini looked at me.
"That's me." I replied. "And you are?"
"Eini Luukkanen. The leader of the Luukkanen Detachment Group, affiliated with the Finnish Air Force. Eila is part of my group if you don't know. Just need to keep a close eye on her if she tries any mischief." Eini said as she lightly glared at her.
"Geez… you're such a slave driver, Eini. Can you lighten up a bit?" Eila asked her as she gained her scowling look… "N-Nothing!"
"Eini, yes?" I continued. "I take it that you're volunteering to help the army with the people that have taken refuge here in this mall?"
"I have. The Witches are taking turns on using their magic to warm this place. Half of them have already prolonged their abilities and we're unsure if this cold will end despite there's no blizzard." Eini continued as she tipped her glasses up. "Aulis here has been volunteering in helping the people's needs in this mall."
"I have." Aulis then looked at me. "But I'm glad to see you again. Even if you left your past behind and focused on the present. How were the Platoon treating you?"
"Fine as ever, thank you. I must give thanks to Alexandra for giving me hospitality." I said with my courtesy as Alexandra nodded.
"Think nothing of it. Your skills are definitely needed on the battlefield." Alexandra continued as she looked at Eini. "Luukanen. With the blizzard gone, is the progress in the restoration going smoothly?"
"Sadly no." Eini continued as she sighs. "It'll take a whole year to get rid of the snow in this city. All of the people fear that it might happen again since it's January. Again, it's proven tough that we couldn't get civilian cooperation to restore Helsinki."
"Then let us help. We'll do whatever we can to make your country prosper again." Alexandra then lends out her hand to her as she takes it.
"I'm glad that you're willing to help." Eini said as she stopped shaking hands with her.
"Aulis, has anything happened while we were far from home?" I asked him about it as his expression changed into something that isn't pleasant.
"Yeah… You're not going to like this…" Aulis said as Eila noticed to see her descendant talking as she seemed afraid about it but kept her mouth shut as Sanya watched. "Last night… With the endless blizzard over. Eila took part in doing nighttime patrols to search for criminals. She ran into a certain Witch who proclaims that she's from the Moon."
"Wait… The Witch from the Moon… You mean Sevens?" I asked him as both Aulis and Eila were shocked as if they were aware or something.
"That's right… Sevens! It was her!" Eila continued. "I encountered her last night during the full moon!"
"Sevens… That's what Eila told me her name." Aulis then continued. "The moment she met Sevens… an unthinkable happened…"
"T-Tell us! What happened next!" I asked him as he looked down a bit to pause until looking back at us.
"After she met Sevens… Eila was tricked by her and… her Foresight was permanently taken away from her…" Aulis then revealed the truth of what happened as this came as a complete shock to us. Aurora included.
"Bullshit… That's impossible! You can't take away one's abilities!" Aurora shouted in confusion as Eila spoke in.
"But it's true! She took away my foresight! While I still have my familiar with me and I'm still capable of flight… I… I can't look into the near future anymore. I can't even feel it. None… It's all gone!" Eila cursed as this saddens Sanya.
"Eila…" I asked her as she felt angry but lost. "Please tell us. Please tell us what happened in the full story from your perspective."
"Fine… but listen well…" Eila said as she would begin to tell us her side of the story of how it all happened just last night.
Background Music End
-[Flashback - Eila and Sevens]-
It was the dead of night in Helsinki. Eila soared through the air all alone in order to do her usual voluntary night patrols to search for criminals who would sneak out at night to take advantage of it. As a result, Witches to be deployed at night are to patrol all around Helsinki and apprehend the criminals and rioters in order to keep the streets safe. For Eila, this was a total cakewalk for her. She had apprehended the total of 10 criminals who were trying to rob either people or stores and has proven herself to Finland's best Ace Witches in this world. But when she sees a certain person standing near the rooftops as she is confused of what's going on… she would try to intervene as if the individual is trying to fall off the building.
"Hey, you." Eila said the moment she arrived and hovered on the rooftops. "What are you doing here on the rooftops? Trying to take your life?"
"Taking my own life?" The mysterious person in Witch clothing spoke as she turned around… she had long blonde hair that reached down from her leg thighs as she had velvet red eyes. But she was seen holding an elegant broom on her right hand as well. She the example of what's called a perfect beauty. "I have no intentions of doing so. In fact, I wanted to see the whole world here ever since this whole blizzard ended that you people were forced to endure.~"
"Of course we had to, restoring the city is the only next step for us to do here." Eila then continued as she had her hands on her hips as she had her Holger 26 LMG holstered on her back through the sling. "Why not head straight home and forget this all happened, yeah? I'm really busy with this task, y'know."
"Ahh, you see… I have no home here on Earth. Well, I do have one. It's right there. At the Moon." The mysterious Witch then pointed up the moon as Eila looked at it.
"The Moon? You're serious? Are you? There's no people living on the moon-" Eila was interrupted by her.
"Oh yes, they are. There are people living on this Moon, in fact. But, it's all women. Hence why…" The mysterious Witch then placed her index finger over her lips. "I am a Witch from the Moon.~"
"Y-You're joking, right?" Eila felt like this was all a bluff.
"Oh, silly you. Do you truly think that I'm joking, Eila Ilmatar Juutilainen?~" The mysterious Witch called out her name as this suddenly threw her on edge as her expression changed.
"H-How the hell do you know my name!? Who are you!?" Eila demanded as she was ready to bring out her weapon.
"Please, I bring no harm. Allow me to introduce myself… My name is Sevens… Like you, I'm also a Witch. But I hail from the Moon. And you hail from the Earth. You and I are not the same, you know?~" The witch named Sevens introduces herself to the Suomisian as she tries to stand her ground.
"Weird name… Just what do you want with me?" Eila asked until Sevens proceeded to bring out a cube-like device as it began to magically enlarge itself with various gears and contraptions as it contained a crystal shard inside it but… it wasn't glowing.
"I've come to offer you something that no Witches can never refuse. After all, I've always wanted to share my knowledge and our magic with Earth Witches like you." Sevens said to her.
"Whatever you're offering, I'm not interested. I already have mine…" Eila growled as Seven maintained her composure.
"Now please, there's no need to be hasty. I can offer you a much greater magical power that no Witches can't rival in terms of sheer might. With it, you'll truly become the savior that Finland needs. And perhaps keep your close ones near you. Not a bad offer, yes?~" Sevens continued to offer her something greater when it comes to a magical energy that would come from the Moon.
But when Eila begins to envision and think about Sanya… She was the closest one to her. But ultimately… She ended up choosing Aulis due to their connections. Both Eila and Sanya reconciled as they had talked before. She desired to have Sanya be at her side but she doesn't want to ruin the bonds that involved Aulis. Of course, Sanya only told her that it's better that they're simply friends rather than close lovers. Which led to a separation. Throughout her life in this world, she remained in Finland to help the people and Aulis in restoring Helsinki no matter what. But her mind always returns to Sanya as she would envision her the closest ever since she first met her back in their world.
"D-Does it mean I can be close to Sanya?" Eila asked as Seven nodded.
"Anything that will keep you close. Do you wish for power and knowledge, then?" Sevens asked with a kind smile.
"Yes… I do…" Eila said as Sevens begins to have a smirk…
"Then it's a deal…~" Sevens said as something began to happen… Eila's black fox ears twitched as this alerts Eila. The moment she tries to react… it was too late… She was tricked.
The crystal within the mechanical cube begins to react with a glow as it suddenly takes the "essence" within Eila which it continues to flow into the crystal. As it finally stopped, the crystal was glowing brightly as it was pristine. Suddenly, the cube begins to shift and changes into a smaller cube as it lands on Seven's left hand. Eila snaps back to reality the moment she looks at her. She tries to feel something but… something was definitely wrong with her.
"I… I can't feel something… or anything. No… wait…! My Foresight… My Foresight is gone! You took it away from me! How!?" Eila shouted in anger the moment she brought out her weapon and aimed at her.
"Isn't it simple, Eila?~ What does it feel like to get tricked by a Moon Witch by me?" Sevens continued as she lightly played with her cube. "I've read some extensive research on how Foresight works. You can look into the future. But not too far. But near. You can avoid bullets, lasers, anything. They call you a Diamond Ace. But in the end, you simply fell for one of my oldest tricks in the books.~"
"You… YOU LIED TO ME! GIVE IT BACK… GIVE IT BACK, YOU BASTARD!" Eila shouted with rage as she was ready to shoot. However, Sevens had other plans.
"I'm terribly sorry, Eila.~ As much as you want it back. Someone needs it really badly. After all, he desires to be the personification of justice itself. You can keep flying as a Witch." Sevens said as she put her cube away as she used her left hand to snap her fingers as it created a small mote of light. "But you can't see the future anymore.~ Toodles!~"
"WAIT!" Eila tried to talk to her until…
[FLASH!]
The flash of light blinded Eila as she covered her eyes. The moment she opened her eyes to find her… Sevens was gone from plain sight. Nowhere to be seen. She proceeded to lower her weapon in defeat as she gritted her teeth in frustration the moment her tears were starting to shed from her eyes… This was the first time that Eila was tricked.
-[Flashback End]-
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Troubled
"And that's how I lost my Foresight from that Moon Witch… I should have killed her while I had the chance…" Eila spat as Aurora kneeled down and looked at her sister.
"Eila… I don't understand how this all happened to you… But I can confirm to you that Sevens is a dangerous Moon Witch. As your older sister… I'll help you get your Foresight back, okay?" Aurora said as she petted her hair as Eila looked at her.
"T-Thank you… sis…" Eila said as she finally calmed down.
"To think Sevens would go this far to steal Eila's Foresight. This is merely but surreal…" I pondered. "Though, perhaps it'd be best for you to rely on using your shield rather than dodging, don't you think?"
"Excuse me!?" Eila retorted and scowled. "I've always been used to dodging! I don't mean to brag, but I never use a shield!"
"Well, now you have to use it from now on. After all, I am a Juutilainen-" I was interrupted as Eila became increasingly annoyed more towards me.
"You're not even a Juutilainen at all!" Eila continued. "You're just a damn pretender using our name!"
"My sister is right…" Aurora said with a sigh. "Eihn, I think it's time for you to stop using our last name…"
"A-Aurora! Why!?" I pleaded. "You saved my life! Gave me a new chance to reflect on who I am now!"
"Then prove yourself if you're worthy of the name!" Eila shouted at me as she was still angry at me.
"E-Eila… Aren't you being rude too towards Eihn?" Sanya asked as she was worried as Eila looked at her.
"No, I believe Eila is right. Juutilainen isn't his true last name." Eini continued as I looked at her. "I've already read the files about who you truly are. After all, your full and true name is Eihn Harkonnen."
"Ngh…" I started to feel a small pain in my head as I was reminded of my past during my time working with the Vartijat until I snapped back into reality. "Please… don't go there…"
"Is that your true last name?" Sanya asked me as I looked at her. Eila as well as her expression changed into surprise as she never heard about it.
"That's correct…" I continued as I looked down to look at my hand and clenched it. "I've long discarded my last name when I first joined the Vartijat. Every initiate member requires us to discard our last names. Our oath is to protect and defend Finland at all costs. Even if it'll cost our lives."
"I heard that the Vartijat was disbanded after the Battle of Helsinki, right?" Aulis asked me.
"Yes. It fell apart in the process. Talon left. and the rest followed. And I was the last. That's why I wanted to avoid this pain. To take on the Juutilainen name… a new me." I replied as I remember seeing Talon's face the last time before he left on his own. He was the only comrade I have. We've looked out at each other like brothers. But things changed.
"Hold on! You know Talon?" Eila asked in question.
"A comrade of mine, yes. He became very doubtful after seeing the massacre during the Battle of Helsinki. Too many people died. I tried to reason with him to stay yet, he decided to quit and follow his own path. And I wasn't able to follow him because I was weak… He is considered the greatest marksman who uses a magic rifle, said to be powered by Witch's Magic." I explained who Talon was. That even includes the fallout between us.
"Talon… I believe I've heard of him in the records of the battle. Unfortunately…" Eini then tipped her glasses. "He went rogue and eventually became the traitor to the country."
"W-What!? How!? There's no way he would turn to the life of crime!? Surely he'll never do that!" I retorted in shock as Aulis proceeded to look down.
"I understand your concerns but… He also took the mantle of being an illegal vigilante. That involves Talon killing criminals during both day and night. Worse of all, he even killed a Suomisian Witch, too. Yet, he does it in the name of his own twisted justice." Aulis explained the situation as my heart began to hurt. Like a knife stabbed through it.
"Talon… Why must you walk in a dark path…" I said to myself in pain as Eila and Aurora looked at me as they placed their arms on my shoulders.
"Don't beat yourself up. We'll confront him when we see him. After all… Perhaps I do feel bad for you… I guess?" Eila said as she began to show signs of empathy.
"We'll find Talon for you. And perhaps try to convince him if possible." Aurora said to me as I looked at the two as I began to regain some of my faith.
"Thank you, you two. I'm no longer a Harkkonen but I'll prove to you two that I can move forward and forge a better future for you, Aurora, and Aulis. I want to see the Juutilainen prosper." I said to the two as Aulis joined in as if he was approving it.
"Then that's great. Why not have Eila and Big Sister Aurora accompany you for the night. Sanya can join up as well." Aulis said as I looked at Sanya.
"You can count on me. After all, I just need to look after Eila and everything will be fine." Sanya said with a small smile.
"Thank you, everyone…" I continued. "I promise that I won't let it go to waste. Lady Alexandra? May I confront my former comrade at night?"
"You needn't worry, Har- I mean Eihn." Alexandra continued. "I've already given you a go ahead. Try to reason with him if possible. Got it?"
"Yeah." I replied as I looked at my hand and clenched it tightly. Just what have you gone through this, Talon? Again, the only way for me to do this is to confront him head on.
Plaza Square, Helsinki, Finland Nighttime - Clear Skies
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - The Voice Someone Calls
As time passes on from helping with the people's needs in the mall. It was already time for me, Aurora, Eila, and Sanya to get started in our search for my former ally named Talon. Thanks to Eini's information regarding his whereabouts. I knew there was once a certain place that me and Talon would usually hang around during our time at the Vartijat before the battle. Here, at the plaza square. You could see the statue there but… the head was missing. Of course, the head was still intact until the battle happened which cost the lives of soldiers who died in vain by the Neurois. Eila and Sanya were in their Striker Units while Aurora was in her Tank Striker. We already stood there in one location to find Talon as I looked around. I suppose he wasn't here, after all…
"No sign of him yet…" Aurora said as she looked at me. "You want to head somewhere else based on his second whereabouts?"
"No." I continued. "This is the most probable choice where Talon could be here… or maybe watching us… Talon! I know you're listening. I've returned to Finland to meet you once again!"
I tried calling out Talon to see if it works. Sanya's black cat ears twitched as she sensed something until she looked up at the rooftop building where it was a figure of a young man who was seen wearing shredded robes as he was carrying the same exact weapon that I remember… It was Talon! He started to leap down from the building and landed as this marks our reunion ever since he and I went on separate paths but… Something was clearly wrong with him. He proceeded to take his hood off to reveal his face. And what he has… was a scar over his left eye.
"Eihn… You've returned…" Talon said to me with a slight surprise. "Never would I think we'd meet again since the end of the endless blizzard that plagued this capital into chaos."
"Same…" I continued. "I assume things have changed ever since we parted ways. What happened to you?"
"What do you think? The Finnish Armed Forces and the Suomus Witches have been targeting me that day. Preventing me from taking a criminal's life all for the sake of justice. Or better yet…" Talon then pointed at the three Witches. "Why do you have them with you?"
"Well, it's because…" I tried to talk to him about my reason but… my words fell short on his ears.
"It appears these Earth Witches have brainwashed you. They are truly impure, bred for evil. Is this why you've become so attached to them?" Talon said with his brows raised as I couldn't speak until Aurora spoke up.
"Talon, whatever you're doing… You're not doing our country a favor if you keep this up. Worse yet, you also killed a Witch." Aurora pressed with it as Talon began to scowl in irritation.
"Those Witches were simply in my way of my justice. She should've never involved herself to meddle in my own affairs." Talon said coldly as Eila spoke up, too.
"Then why are you doing this!?" Eila asked in frustration.
"Need I remind you again with that feeble brain of yours?" Talon sighed. "It is for the sake of justice. You know that."
"Justice this… Justice that… Your justice is a complete epiphany of your hubris!" Eila continued as her anger began to slowly rise. "I had it with your stupid fucking delusions of one's justices such as yours! You're no hero… you're a murderer!"
"Hmph. Watch your language, brat. The adults are talking. Eihn…" Talon continued as he looked at me. "For the longest time… I've wronged you. Perhaps, too harshly. Do you remember the days when we had our last talks? The moment we split off?"
"I know… Our whole point of view came crashing down on it the moment you and I left Vartijat… The rest followed in the process as we went separate paths in the process." I said to Talon as he nodded.
"That's right. For the longest time… I strived to become the hero of justice. And the people believe in me that no authorities or Witches can't do. They did nothing but to let these filthy criminals ravage and kill whatever they please. That's why I took the mantle of being their savior. Their hero. I kill criminals to punish them for the sake of justice. They deserve no chance." Talon explained through his life as I envisioned within my mind of how it went… He wanted to be an example of what a hero would be like. Yet, Aulis said that he's doing it illegally as a vigilante.
"But that's not justice at all!" Sanya complained with concerns. "You should have given them a chance to turn themselves in!"
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Shadow
"Turn themselves in? Young girl, you clearly don't understand it at all. Even if they turn themselves in, they would have the intention of doing it again and again as such things repeat without end. To prevent that from happening, killing criminals is the only way to protect the weak. That is justice itself and I aim to bring order to not just Helsinki. But all over Finland." Talon continued. "Do you understand now, Eihn? Be free from the Witches' captivity. With you and me together, we can change our country to steer it in the right direction. No more wars, no more famine, no more suffering nor pain. Everything… will be at peace. So, what do you say? I've wronged you and I knew that those were my faults. But now that I've seen the better of you, you have the potential to rid all of these negativity away. And perhaps…"
"I can't…" I said to him as I looked down as he took notice. "The Witches' task is to safeguard and protect humanity, yes. But removing all the negative things is entirely impossible. We people have those negative stigmas within us. I understand your reasons for making Finland a better country but… look at you now. You've become an enemy to all of Finland. They're trying to hunt you down, all because of your selfishness and desires of justice. But your sense of justice that you've spoken in your words… That has corrupted you. Therefore… I'm sorry. But I know things will come to this…"
"So I'm aware… brainwashed by the Witches to the end. This saddens me. Of course, you and I are the last former members of the Vartijat. I've already killed the others who've served their purpose in life. But times changed, Eihn. I knew I couldn't reason you to join me. So instead… I need you to die for me… In the name of TRUE justice." Talon said as he began to tighten his fists and concentrate within himself as something was stirring with him. "GRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
The scream of agonizing pain caused him to yell with horrific rage as something from his back began to sprout behind him as it spread out… Talon grew feathered black wings… He proceeded to flap his wings as he hovered in the air as he held his magic rifle. The Witches saw it from their eyes as they were composed but somewhat horrified to see it.
"Do you see now, Eihn?" Talon continued. "These wings I received were bestowed by none other than the great Moon Witch Sevens herself! Not only that… She had also gifted me the magic ability of Foresight! My predictions for the near future have never failed me!"
"You… You have my ability! Sevens stole it from me and yet she gave my ability to you!?" Eila shouted in anger as Talon pondered.
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Unavoidable Battle
"Oh? So that ability originally belonged to you, then? Hehehe… Good, you have no need for it but I do. With my wings and foresight… I shall deliver judgment to all evil. And with it, justice will always prevail no matter what! It is time that you perish, Eihn. Don't worry, you'll join your former members in the afterlife once you're dead." Talon then readied himself as we prepared ourselves as well.
"Talon… I refuse to kill you but… I'll stop you…! Whatever it takes!" I said as we were ready.
"Tch… you've grown truly soft. That is the sign of your weakness. But if you truly want to stop me. Then you'll have to kill me for it!" Talon said as he aimed his rifle as it was charging up in the air. He pulled the trigger as it created an energy orb which proceeded to split off and fire rapid multiple beams targeting us. Eila and Sanya dodged as Aurora moved in front to deploy her shield to protect me.
[RATATATAT!]
Eile returned fire at Talon as he proceeded to easily dodge all bullets as if it was nothing. Of course, he has Eila's Foresight. Fighting him is nearly impossible!
[FWOOSH!]
Sanya fired all nine small rockets that were homing on Talon until he shifted his aim and fired a powerful beam from his magic rifle as he instantly destroyed the rockets but she had also protected herself with her shield up. Behind her shows the beams being curved away from the shield as it destroyed some buildings behind her.
"Is this all you can do?" Talon said. "You will never land a hit on me. Never!"
"So this is what it's like tasting my own medicine…" Eila spat.
"Eila! We need to stop him!" Sanya yelled at her friend.
"I'm trying but this guy is a pain in the ass!" Eila retorted as she fired her Holder 26 at him. But, he proceeded to twirl as he shot out black feathers directly at her the moment Eila was forced to raise her shield up.
[SNAP!]
Talon snapped his finger as the feather began to react as it created an explosion as it knocked back Eila the moment Aurora managed to catch her as Sanya noticed.
"EILA!" Sanya shouted as she looked back at him. "How dare you…!"
"No matter what you do, I am invincible. You are next, Witch!" Talon yelled as he was ready to finish her off. But, I won't let anything happen… I quickly slammed down my shield without any chants because of my hesitation… I shot out a pillar of ice that tried to hit Talon but he dodged it completely pretty easily. "Well now… trying to stop me, are you? Very well, I will deal with you personally!"
As Talon was ready to dive towards me of what's to come… Aurora uses her tank cannon to fire directly at him but he dodges it. The moment he was within my range… Sanya flew to step in to deploy her shield to immediately halt and fly back the moment Eila managed to regain her consciousness and fly again.
"Damn it… nothing is working against him!" Eila shouted in annoyance.
"True but… I do have one ace in my sleeve… It should limit his flying but… I need your cooperation. Both Aurora and Eila…" I continued. "I know we're running out of ideas but trust me. Hold on to my shield… We do this together."
"Fine… I hope you know what you're doing… Do you seriously believe in him, sis?" Eila asked her sister.
"I do, and he hasn't failed me since." Aurora replied as the two held onto my shield. Eila in the middle, me on the left, and Aurora on the right… The two begin to transfer their magical energy directly onto this shield as I begin to focus… With enough gathering… it was ready. We three begin to speak in unison.
"Ice Magic…"
"Eleventh Stage…"
"GLACIAL PRISON!"
We slammed the shield once again as the ground began to be frosted as it proceeded to wrap the whole area into a huge wall of ice that proceeded to block his escape as well as above as it created a roof. And just as that, a large ice prison was formed in the shape of a cube. It's huge but it should limit his flying.
"Interesting… Never would I think that you'd do that… But alas…!" Talon quickly swoops down and grabs my neck as I was lifted into the air as I dropped my shield as Eila and Aurora held it for me.
"EIHN!" Eila, Aurora, and Sanya shouted for me as he held me in midair, tightly choking me to death as I tried to break free from it.
"If you're so eager to trap me… Then I might as well get rid of you as quickly as possible. It was a mistake to talk to you out of this. But my justice will make swift work for you!" Talon said as he was filled with anger and hate as if he was blinded by justice entirely. But that's never stopping me, as I knew what I had to do… He hasn't realized my plan just yet.
"I'll do anything to stop you. Even if I can't reason you out of this…" I said the moment I grabbed out something from my back… a flashbang. The moment I pulled the pin with my thumb as he saw it. "There will always be an outcome…"
"What the fu-"
[BANG! SCREEEEEEEEEEEE!]
The sound of the flashbang goes off as I manage to close my eyes as he didn't, he drops me from the air as Eila flies in and catches me. I noticed him screaming and covering his eyes.
"NO! NOOOO! I CAN'T SEE! WHY IS MY FORESIGHT NOT WORKING…!" Talon yelled the moment where everything was ready to end this battle quickly.
"AURORA!" I called her out the moment she readied her charge shot and fired it from her tank cannon into the air. Just as the moment when Talon saw… he was too late…
Background Music End
[BOOM!]
The explosion hits Talon as he was wounded completely as he fell into the ground the moment he crashes into it. Eila lets me down as the ice prison begins to shatter into pieces as I rush towards my former comrade as he was all pretty beaten but… he was bleeding out and his skin became completely pale and slightly wrinkled.
Background Music | Persona 5 OST - Regret
"Aah… So I've lost…" Talon said as he coughed out blood as I kneeled on the ground to look at him.
"Don't speak any further, Talon… Right now, you're about to die! I need you to take you to the hospital and-" I was interrupted.
"Forget about it… I'm going to die anyway… I formed a pact with Sevens to gain these wings… as well as bestowing me this Foresight which was never mine." Talon continued as he looked up to the moon in the night sky. "The pact… comes with a price. I'm cursed, you're seeing my whole body starting to change. I'm going to disappear, erased from existence. It's my fault for driving myself for more power than I could've bargained…"
"N-No! I'm not letting you die! I can't let you die! What more could you ask for but to let death take you away! You were the only person to talk to when we were elite soldiers in the Vartijat once! Again, and again… we would hang out here at this plaza… to talk, eat, chill, and have fun…" I tried to reason with him as he started to chuckle.
"Heheh… Those were the days, Eihn…" Talon said as he proceeds to cough. "Honestly… I suppose you were right all along…"
"H-Huh?" I noticed to see him as his whole body from his legs proceeds to disintegrate into ash as his hair turns completely white.
"You were the small light in the stars… You were the symbol of hope in this mundane world. I'm glad… I'm glad that I met you… And… I'm… sorry… for the wrongs I have done to you… and everyone." Talon weakly then lifted his arm and placed it on my shoulder. "I'm afraid of death but… this is my punishment. Perhaps justice is against me now but… I want you to keep on living… don't be like me. Be who you are. Yourself. Heheh… I guess the time is up for me… Thank you, Eihn… For being real with me…"
And just as that… his body begins to disintegrate more and more as he arms fall to the floor. Then… he had finally passed away, removed from this world. What was left was his magic rifle on the ground as I couldn't take it as my heart began to hurt more and more as I finally let out a scream.
"Talon… TALLLLLLLLLON!"
Third Person POV
"Well now… Never would I think that my little puppet has died. Such a pity, honestly. Truly, this was a meaningless death in the end.~" Sevens had appeared where she was on her broom, hovering in the air as Eila, Aurora, and Sanya looked up to meet her. But, from this moment. This angered Eihn… He had enough of her talking.
"Meaningless…!?" Eihn spoke in angered frustration as he started to grab Talon's Magic Rifle as he hipfires a charged mana beam shot which was directly aimed at her face until she tilted her head aside to dodge it but… it left a small cut on her cheek as it was bleeding a little. Of course, this surprises the Moon Witch.
"Did… did you just hurt me…?" Sevens said in shock. Of course, her anger was about to rise but she maintained her composure. "Usually, I would retaliate by wiping you all out and this pathetic city. But I realized that it is merely a waste of breath and time. After all, my plans are almost coming into fruition very soon."
"You! I want my Foresight back! I'm getting sick and tired of your bullshit!" Eila spat as Sevens proceeded to laugh.
"Ohohohoho!~ Still clinging onto that demand, have you?" Sevens continued. "You are sorely mistaken. Indeed, I gave Talon your Foresight and that led him to be drunk on his power and hubris. When he's dead? He's dead. Which also means that his Foresight is also gone with it in the process."
"N-No… this… this can't be…" Eila becomes saddened as her strikers begin to sputter as the magic propellers begin to give in as Aurora and Sanya help her.
"But as for you… I'll spare you for now.~ But you won't get to live when the world will finally hit the reset button. Until then, toodles!~" Sevens then uses her broom as she flies away into the night.
"Get back here!" An angered Eihn tries to call her as Aurora stops him.
"Eihn! Stop! You need to calm yourself. You're just wasting your breath…" Aurora said to him.
"B-But…" He tried to talk to her but she shook her head. Realizing about it… he proceeded to calm down as he took back the shield from Aurora's hand. "Fine…"
Background Music | Persona 5 OST - Alleycat
"I'm… I'm sorry that you couldn't save Talon, Eihn…" Sanya responded in sadness as she understood his pain.
"No, it's okay… I… I think I found my resolution…" Eihn continued as he looked at the Magic Rifle he was carrying. "He wanted me to live on. As a result… he left this for me… He wants me to use it. To honor it… Wait… Eila? Are you okay?"
"Y-Yeah…" Eila said as she was becoming slightly depressed. "Can't believe my Foresight is gone… I can't get it back anymore…"
"Eila. You must remain calm. As your sister, you need to rest up back at the mall so you can feel better. Understood?" Aurora said to her sister with a stern look. Of course, she would accept.
"Right… Sanya, I'm going to head back…" Eila said to her friend as she flew away.
"Eila! Let me fly with you!" Sanya said as she hurried with her to keep her friend company. Now, it just leaves both Eihn and Aurora.
"Aurora… I…" Eihn had a hard time talking to her as she calmed him.
"I know, Eihn. I'm sorry that Talon can't be saved… But you have his gun. He wanted you to have it. He wanted you to live so he can pass away to live in the afterlife. I'm sure you made those memories with him in the end, right?" Aurora asked him how he would remember those kinds of memories. The memories of Eihn and Talon, hanging out in the plaza.
"Thanks, Aurora…" Eihn said as he continued. "That reminds me. Did I prove to you that I can be a Juutilainen now?"
"That you did, Eihn. You've earned our respect." Aurora said with a smirk. "Let's head back to the mall, shall we? The restoration of Helsinki has just begun."
"You're right… Let's head back and start fresh. The city's been through so much pain. I won't let Talon's wish go to waste. I swear it." Eihn said to Aurora as she smiled. And so, the two would return back and get some rest for the night in order to start the day better.
1/5/2019 Helsinki, Finland Morning - Clear Sky
First Person POV (Eihn)
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Tranquility
It was the next day… The day where everyone decided to join together that the restoration of the city had finally begun as people started to use snow shovels to get rid of the pile of snow that blocked off some parts of the building or the sidewalk was blanketed deep. Vehicles such as the snowplow have been deployed in the city to help clear the snow on the streets aside. The Witches were putting in the effort to help clean the city as well as helping the people. For me? Well, it's simple. I've decided to help the people to restore the city in order to make it lively again. Magic Heaters are still deployed throughout the city but it's working. No longer I decided to wear my white armor that I was given by the Vartijat. I decided to wear something casual once as I wore my white parka jacket and black baggy sweatpants. I was seen shoveling the snow and loading it into the wagon that Aurora had found and thought it's a good idea to dump the snow somewhere. Eila was seen helping with me as well. But as for Sanya… she needed an extra sleep after what happened last night but I'm sure she'll be fine. Alexandra was there with us, too. She's helping as well as she placed a pile of snow with her shovel.
"Honestly, I'm glad that everyone is helping for once. And I can tell you're putting in the work, aren't you?" Eila said to me as I looked at her.
"I am. But are you helping as well?" I asked her as she realizes about it. Yup… she's barely putting in the work.
"H-Hey! I am helping! And be thankful that my sis allowed you to join our family now that you're a Juutilainen! So don't let that blessing go to waste!" Eila yelled as Eini and Aulis arrived to check on us.
"Ease up, Eila. Eihn is doing a great job here. Besides, you don't wanna see Kylli or Heino find out that you're being rude, are you?" Aulis said to her as she felt defeated.
"G-Geh!? O-Of course not! I wouldn't disappoint your siblings! I'll get back to work, see!?" Eila said as she proceeded to start shoveling the snow and loading them up in the wagon.
"Eini. Would it be wise if we could dump this load of snow into the ocean by the docks?" Aurora asked her as she nodded.
"It wouldn't hurt, regardless." Eini said as she looked at me. "How are you feeling, Eihn? Are you feeling any better?"
"I am now. Besides… Talon wanted me to live. So perhaps he longed for death all this time. I wouldn't even realize it by then. Still…" I continued as I looked up at the sky to see the Witches flying. "He was the only friend I have."
"You have them now." Eini continued as she had a small smile. "Aurora, Eila, Sanya… they'll be at your side from here on out. So you're not alone. Keep on living as you intend to. We'll never know what the future holds."
"Yeah… You're right." I replied back to her. Knowing me… All I can say is this… Finland is in great hands. Are you watching Talon? This is the good future we've longed for. And to the person I met named Keiwa Kaburagi… I'm sure you'll be okay with Sakamoto at your side.
[FINLAND'S FUTURE SECURED. SEVENS REMAINS ACTIVE. EIHN'S STEELED RESOLVE.]
[TO BE CONTINUED…]
Author's Notes: Hello all. Thank you for reading this chapter. This one has a special opening that I made specifically for this chapter since the Persona 3 vibe is pretty much kicking in. Or rather, influencing it as I speak. Putting a focus on Eihn in this chapter is a right move since he needed to face that personal struggle since he failed to save his friend Talon. But everyone needs to bear this pain and move forward instead of looking back at the past. I suppose that's the moral of the story involving life. The next chapter will return back to focus on Keiwa as he and Mio are to arrive at France to assist Perrine and the 506th Noble Witches. And yes, it will be much more serious and gritter compared to this chapter where the stakes and high risks are made. As well as testing Keiwa's emotional limit. After all, something terribly bad will happen involving one of the Noble Witches members. So please look forward to it. Until then, peace out!