The sky returned to its usual dark hue, making the previous eerie red atmosphere a fleeting dream. The bright moon shined on us. Labrys and I caught our breath as we took a moment to absorb the tranquil silence. Someone gave us a slow clap as they walked towards us from behind.
"That was a spectacular performance. I did not doubt that you would overcome this obstacle," Elizabeth said.
"Elizabeth, you were here this whole time," Labrys asked.
"Have you already met her, Labrys," I asked.
"Yes, I met her inside the TV World before I understood I was living a false life. How did you know her, Tai," Labrys asked.
"She mysteriously appeared in my dream. It's a long story. By the way, Elizabeth, what were you doing here," I asked.
"I was watching an epic struggle between man's desire for death and solitude and those who choose to walk through the struggle with their bonds. Humanity may forever search for a great fall for those around them. Even the tiniest bonds can generate hope, shatter illusions, and create miracles. I was most satisfied with the conclusion of this epic clash. Why, it even made my heart skip a beat," Elizabeth explained.
"As long as you are satisfied, I am content," I told her.
"Hey, Elizabeth, were you able to fulfill your wish yet," Labrys asked.
"I believe I still have much to learn and much to explore. With the power that you have shown me, I believe I have taken another step to achieve my wish. I am grateful for another wonderful opportunity to observe you and your story," Elizabeth answered.
"That's good to hear. I hope your journey ends with a satisfying conclusion," I replied.
Suddenly, the tower started to shake.
"Oh dear, I forgot to mention. Now that the red fog has cleared and the cursed entity has disappeared, there is no need for the tower to exist," Elizabeth explained.
"You're kidding! Does this mean that everyone in this tower will crumble underneath it," Labrys questioned.
"Elizabeth, can I ask you for a quick favor," I pleaded.
"As long as it is something that I can do. Time is of the essence," Elizabeth replied matter-of-factly.
"Can you bring us and everyone in this tower to a safe location," I questioned.
"Well, it is certainly several people that I must carry, but I suppose it is a doable proposal. The problem is where to put all these people that would be considered safe. Decisions, decisions," Elizabeth pondered.
"Please hurry, Elizabeth. We don't have much time left," Labrys begged.
"I know. I will just put you there. That should be ample enough," Elizabeth declared.
"Where is there," I questioned.
Before I could ask more about her nonchalant solution, Elizabeth created a magic circle underneath us. Suddenly, the world turned white, and Labrys and I had to shield our eyes.
"Well then, until we meet again," Elizabeth said, her voice fading.
Episode 17
By the time Labrys and I came to, we arrived at a world all too familiar to me.
"Hey, isn't this the TV World," I questioned.
"You are right. But why did Elizabeth bring us here," Labrys asked.
We looked around the area for others. We saw a familiar figure lying on the floor.
"Sho," Labrys said, surprised.
Labrys and I looked over to the fallen Sho. Before we could do anything, Sho got up as though he sensed us approaching him.
"I know this place. Is it over," Sho asked.
"It appears so," I replied.
"So, this is what the power of bonds can do," Sho mumbled.
There was something different about Sho. He felt more at ease with himself and not consistently intense. As though he had come to his conclusion, Sho began to leave.
"Hey, Sho, where are you going," Labrys asked.
"Isn't it obvious? Not where any of you guys will be," Sho replied.
"You know, you could just hang out with us. I'm sure everyone will accept you with open arms," I suggested.
"Be real, I tried to kill everyone. There's no way anyone would forgive me that easily. Besides, I'm not listening to what other people have to say. It's time I walk my path and find what I seek. It's obvious our two worlds won't mix, so I'm out of here," Sho explained.
"I hope you find what you're looking for," Labrys responded.
"I tried to go for your throats, yet you are still worried about me. You two are strange people. I should get going. I don't want your sappy reunion ruined by me. See you later, metal scraps and dino boy," Sho replied.
"Anytime you want to fight, you know where to find us. We will fight you until you are satisfied with the bonds you have created," I replied.
Sho let out a wholesome smile and disappeared with a different type of confidence. Labrys and I felt at ease seeing him content before he left us. Soon, other bright lights continued to surround us. One by one, everyone we knew and loved who fought alongside us during this incredible journey appeared before us.
"What happened to us? Where are we now," Junpei asked, quickly looking around.
"Isn't this the TV World," Joe asked.
"Does that mean that it's all over," Matt asked.
"Everyone, you've made it back," I said.
"Labrys, Tai, thank goodness the two of you are safe. I was worried," Yukari said.
"You have no idea the kind of madness we had to go through just to keep you two away from all the Shadow interference," Kanji said.
"Still, the fact that your presence is here and that the red fog disappeared meant that things have finally come to normal," Naoto replied.
"Congratulations, Labrys and Tai. There was no doubt in my mind that you would be able to succeed," Mitsuru replied.
"Way to go, you two. You fought off all that danger successfully. I'm proud of you both," Akihiko said, nudging us.
"Sister, I am relieved you are well," Aigis told Labrys.
"It's good to see everyone in such high spirits," Labrys replied.
"I felt everything that happened up there. It was amazing," Rise said.
"When the Shadows started to decrease dramatically, Rise and Fuuka gave us the good news," Sora explained.
"I wish I could have seen the fight for myself. It sounded like an epic battle," Ken replied.
"Although the shaking and crumbling of the tower did catch us off guard," Izzy mentioned.
"Let's be thankful that everyone was able to escape promptly," Fuuka replied.
"I'm not sure what exactly happened with that bright light, but anywhere is better than that tower at this point, even here," TK sighed.
"Still, it was incredible that you defeated such a monstrous entity all by yourselves," Chie spoke.
"Thanks to everyone's trust, we handled it well," I replied.
"If Tai didn't psyche me up, I wouldn't know if I had it in me to keep fighting on," Labrys replied.
"Look at you two, acting like you've been teaming together for years, yet you've only met each other for a few days," Kari stated.
"It just goes to show how powerful bonds can be as long as you trust in them with all your heart," Yu noted.
"By the way, now that I think about it, if we are not in the tower anymore, where exactly is here," Yukari asked.
"Right, you guys probably have never been to the TV World," Mimi answered.
"That name sounds familiar. I've read about it in the files Mitsuru had mentioned," Ken said.
"So, how do we get out of here and return to the Real World," Junpei asked.
"With this," Teddie answered, summoning a stack of TVs.
"What do TVs have to do with getting us out of here," Junpei continued.
"You just go through the TV to get out to another TV in the Real World. It acts as a door or a portal that connects the two worlds," Sora explained.
"That's sounds pretty complicated," Junpeu sighed.
"That's because you're thinking too hard about it," Matt replied.
"It would be faster if we just showed it to him. Stick your hand into the TV like this," Kanji demonstrated.
Kanji placed his hands and body through the TV, which surprised Yukari, Ken, Koromaru, and Junpei.
"How is that even possible," Yukari asked.
"That's just how the TV works," Teddie said with his head held high.
"It looks incredible," Ken said.
"More like it looks dangerous. Get back in here," Junpei said.
Junpei tried to grab Kanji, but Kanji quickly brought his body back and knocked the back of his head on Junpei's forehead. They winced in pain.
"What are you two doing? It's embarrassing," Kari said.
"Hey, it's not my fault. I saw a security guard patrolling Junes. What if we get caught," Kanji questioned.
"Wait, Kanji, did you say that you saw someone patrolling the area normally," Naoto asked.
"That means the world is safe again. We saved Inaba. We're awesome," Chie shouted.
"All right, this calls for a celebration," Yosuke informed.
"Are we throwing a party in Junes," TK asked.
"It's like you read our mind," Yu replied.
"That sounds like a wonderful idea," Fuuka smiled.
"Count me in," Mimi cheered.
Koromaru barked happily.
"Okay, once I give the signal, we jump into the TV and sneak out of Junes," Yosuke explained.
"Are you sure this is a good idea? I have a bad feeling about this," Junpei sighed.
"It's not like we have any other options. Besides, they've done this before, so I'm sure it will be swift," Yukari replied.
"We better hurry along if we don't want to stay behind them any further," Ken remarked.
"Okay, we jump on three," Yu said.
Once Yu finished his countdown, we leaped through the TV.
It was the last day of Golden Week. To celebrate our victory yesterday, Yosuke suggested a large celebration in Junes. While we were concerned that the number of people attending would crowd the rooftop, it was probably the only logical location the attendees were familiar with. When we arrived at the venue, we were surprised by the lack of shoppers at the store. Because it was the last day of the holidays, we imagined the area would be busy with late and final shopping. It was odd that such a large department store was so barren. Nevertheless, we continued up the rooftop until we reached our destination. When we got up there, we spotted the two groups who awaited our arrival.
"There they are," Chie said, smiling and waving at us.
"We were wondering what took you so long," Junpei remarked.
"Apologies for the delay," Kari replied.
"Why is the store so empty? Isn't it going to be bad for business," Matt asked.
"I was hoping it wouldn't be obvious. My dad is going to lecture me," Yosuke sighed.
"Now that everyone's here, shall we get started," Fuuka asked.
"You can't have a party without an opening speech," Kanji replied.
"Come on, Yosuke, hurry up so we can begin our celebration," Mimi teased.
"I'm thinking. It's hard when you put me on the spot like that," Yosuke complained.
"Getting cold feet," Mitsuru questioned.
"I thought you were better than that," TK laughed.
"You are all making things worse. Yu, tag in for me," Yosuke sighed.
"Well then, cheers, everyone," Yu finally said.
Everyone raised their glass, and the party began.
"Are you the navigator of your group, Izzy? I was curious about your powers," Fuuka started.
"I use a crystal ball as a computer to gather information and track everyone," Izzy replied.
"That sounds incredible. I would have never thought about it like that if I had similar abilities," Rise commented.
"I think your strengths are as impressive. It's not often you see creatures who can easily shift between two different forms. You should be proud," Izzy replied.
"You think so," Rise asked shyly.
"I was also taken back when your Persona was able to fight. It showed your passion to keep fighting even when the odds are against you," Fuuka added.
"Both of you are sweet. Thank you for the compliments," Rise smiled.
"I can't get enough of petting Koromaru. He's just too cute," Kanji said, happily rubbing Koromaru's head.
"Please don't pet him for too long. It can be too much for him," Ken replied.
"Do you mind if I pet him as well," Kari asked, walking closer to her.
"There's enough of Koromaru to go around," Kanji said, moving over for Kari.
Kari began petting Koromaru.
"You're right. Koromaru is very soft and cuddly. I can see why it can be addicting to touch him," Kari stated.
Koromaru whined.
"I think that's enough for now. Koromaru looks like he wants a break," Ken said, picking Koromaru up.
"It's hot today. It shouldn't be this hot at this time of day. Just looking at you makes me sweat, Yukari. Why don't you unzip your outfit a bit," Teddie questioned.
"Hey, watch where you are touching," Yukari said, swatting Teddie's hand away.
"If you're sweating so much, why don't you take your head off? We all know you have another body underneath that silly suit," Matt commented.
"How dare you call my bear suit silly? I'll have you know that I am the cutest mascot here in Junes. I need to keep my image," Teddie remarked.
"There's no one here to show off your outfit to. Take your head off, and stop complaining," Matt informed.
Matt tried to unzip Teddie but pulled on the zipper too hard.
"Oh, the zipper broke," Yukari stated.
"No, I'm going to be stuck here forever. It's all your fault," Teddie roared.
"Stop moving around so I can put the zipper back in place," Matt said.
"Yukiko, you're trying to take over the inn, right? That sounds like busy work," Sora replied.
"It is, but I enjoy every minute of it. Before, I was concerned that this would be what I would do for the rest of my life. Now, I am more content with my future," Yukiko explained.
"It's impressive that you've thought so far at such a young age. Kids these days have such a good head on their shoulders for these things," Junpei said.
"You said you were a baseball coach. Not to be rude, but you don't look like you have any leadership qualities," Sora remarked.
"I get that a lot sometimes. Don't let this cool face fool you. I'm capable of leading young students and helping them achieve their goals," Junpei proudly stated.
"Your face is more foolish than cool," Yukiko replied.
"Is this how I'm going to be treated from now on," Junpei sighed.
"Master, you look cool beating up all those Shadows. Please teach me some of your moves for next time," Chie said.
"You looked pretty banged up. Are your scars okay," Joe asked.
"I'm fine. The scars remind me that I still have some growth to become stronger," Akihiko replied.
"It must be tough to get so strong. Do you have a particular training regimen," Chie questioned.
"Protein is an important source of nutrition needed if you are looking for a buff physique," Akihiko suggested.
"As long as you consume in moderation, a balanced diet and exercise will provide you with the preferred body type," Joe suggested.
"So, Mitsuru, do you have anyone you're interested in," Yosuke asked.
"I did have someone back then, but right now, my focus is on my work," Mitsuru replied.
"Are you looking for someone younger? I'm sure there will be time in your schedule to hang out," TK questioned.
"Well, we are busy monitoring Shadow activities. We also have outside dealings that we have to answer to to make sure everything operates smoothly," Mitsuru explained.
"You seem to be super busy and doing important things. I'm not sure I will have time to do that with my job as a manager for the shop," Yosuke replied.
"Does your work offer internships? I may be interested in working in your field," TK said.
"You just want to get closer to Mitsuru," Yosuke sighed.
"If something blooms, it is a bonus," TK smiled.
"The more I look at you, the cooler you get. How do you operate," Mimi asked Aigis.
"The Plume of Dusks acts as a heart that allows me to function regularly. However, I still need moments to return to a facility for scheduled scans and maintenance," Aigis explained.
"It's like how people go to the doctor for an annual check-up. You seem pretty human to me. Also, I can't believe you are a private detective at such a young age," Mimi told Naoto.
"Well, I have been reading detective fiction at a young age and studying under my grandfather, a famous detective. I did develop some quirks from him, but I was unable to have any time to develop any connections with others," Naoto informed.
"Well, you are hanging out with us. I'd say you're doing a good job making friends with everyone," Mimi replied.
"I agree. You have a warm expression, signaling content in your life. I'm sure your teammates were necessary for your personal growth," Aigis added.
"They are, and I am forever grateful to them," Naoto nodded.
As everyone chatted, I noticed Labrys stepping back to look out from the rooftop. Yu also spotted her behavior, and we walked over to her.
"What's the matter, Labrys," I asked.
"We're here if you need someone to talk to," Yu replied.
"Thanks, you two. I was looking out of town, realizing I've never truly observed everything the last time I was here," Labrys explained.
"What do you see," Yu questioned.
"Individuals living peaceful lives without a care in the world," Labrys answered.
"You helped make that happen. You should be proud," I informed Labrys.
"No, I must thank you two and everyone else who supported me. Without you, I would have slept inside a box this whole time, living my life inside a dream at the Midnight Channel. I only made true friends when I came out of that shell, and the two of you helped me realize it," Labrys continued.
"How do you feel now," Yu asked.
"I'm so happy that I can jump for joy. These events helped me realize that we can still be friends no matter how far we are or how long we have met each other. I hope Sho realizes this and one day reaches out to us when he needs it the most," Labrys said.
"Sho's journey is only beginning. When he needs us, we'll be there for him," I informed her.
"Today is such a great day. I wish for more happy days to come," Labrys cheered.
"Hey, what are you three doing over there," Yosuke asked.
"Come on, the party is this way. Hang out with us," Mimi replied.
"You're going to make us feel lonely if you keep doing your own thing," Junpei added.
"I guess they're waiting for us," I said.
"Shall we get going," Yu asked.
"Yes," Labrys smiled.
The three of us returned to our friends and chatted to our hearts' content. Eventually, it was time for everyone to part.
"Are you guys leaving so soon? There's still plenty of holiday time left to fulfill," Rise asked Mitsuru's group.
"Our helicopter has already arrived. We should get going if we want to report everything that happened here," Mitsuru explained.
"I'm sure we'll see each other again soon. With you kids, I feel like there's always something waiting to happen," Akihiko replied.
"Are you indirectly saying we're a magnet for trouble," Yosuke asked.
"I can see that," Naoto chuckled.
"The train is about to arrive soon. You should hurry and get to Tokyo before the day ends," Fuuka informed our group.
"Everyone is leaving all at once. It leaves an empty feeling in my chest," Yukiko sighed.
"If you want, we could exchange numbers," TK suggested.
"That won't be necessary," Yukiko quickly replied.
"TK needed that dose of reality," Kari smiled.
"I felt that sting plenty of times, so I feel your pain," Yosuke teased.
"Hanging out with everyone again was fun," Mimi expressed.
"It may not have been the most ideal gathering, but seeing everyone in such high spirits made the trip worth it," Sora explained.
"I may have met many of you for the first time, but it was a pleasure getting to know you," Ken stated.
Koromaru barked happily.
"If you guys ever feel like training, the baseball team is always open to recruits," Junpei replied.
"Make sure to greet me if you ever catch me during a photo shoot," Yukari said.
"I might be touring the country in the city near you, so feel free to support our music," Matt stated.
"We may be in opposite directions, but I'm sure we'll meet again one way or another," Joe replied.
"It was a pleasure to meet all of you. I hope to see you very soon," Aigis smiled.
Soon, we heard the train arrive at our platform.
"It looks like our train is here," Izzy said.
"I guess that's our cue," I replied.
"Don't be a stranger," Kanji shouted.
"Come visit us whenever you want, not just during the holidays," Chie explained.
"We'll be waiting for you," Yosuke replied.
We got on the train and waved goodbye as the train departed.
"Tai, everyone, we'll see each other again soon," Labrys shouted.
I smiled, knowing this wouldn't be the end of our story but the beginning of something new.
*The End*