Phantom Files Book 2: Rise Of The Monarchs

by sithlorde1988

The sequel to Persona 5-The Phantom Files. A few years after Ren returns home, the Phantom Thieves find themselves drawn back into the Metaverse once again out of nowhere after a mysterious app surfaces with the powers to access the Metaverse. Can the Phantom Thieves stop a mysterious new group of individuals called Monarchs? Better summary in chapter 1! BOTH STORY AND EDITS DONE!

29. Labyrinth Beaten! Masked Memories part 3

A/N: sithlorde1988 here, with another chapter of Phantom Files, Book 2: Rise Of The Monarchs! If I recall correctly, we ended the chapter part-way thorugh the Yongen Jail, so this chapter should pick up where chapter 28 left off. But before we get back into it, let's hit up the disclaimer real fast.

Disclaimer: I, sithlorde1988, do not own the Persona series in any way, shape, or form ((excluding the OCs Kusa/Draconis, Taichi, Momoe, the OC Personas Albus and Malefor, and the Phantom Thief attire designs for Draconis, Pendragon, and Seraphim. I do not, however own the OC Persona Hester or the Phantom Thief attire design for Flare. Both of these belong to thalassatides (at symbol) bsky on X (or Twitter as it used to be called), who does some pretty solid work. If you happen to be on X, give her work a look.)) and the actual ownership credit for the Persona series belongs to Atlus and Sega (at least for Persona 3, 4, and 5.

Not so sure about 1 and 2. Whoever owns Persona 1, Persona 2-Eternal Punishment and Persona 2-Innocent Sin knows who they are and gets credit for owning them), as well as to a point Koei Tecmo (at least insofar as it pertains to Persona 5 Strikers. Various other companies made and thus partially own Tactica, Phantom X, the 'Arena' games, the 'Q' games, and the 'Dancing' games. Those companies know who they are and get credit for the games they own. I can say that Arcworks Studios gets partial ownership credit for the Arena games at the least.) So yeah, credit to anyone who at least partially owns a Persona game in some capacity!

And with that disclaimer fully sorted out, I think I've kept you all waiting for the chapter long enough! Let's get on with it! I'll try to have a longer A/N after the chapter, so keep an eye out for that! But for now, here's chapter 29!

Chapter 29- Blasts from the Past! Confrontations, Resolutions, and Evolutions! Masked Memories part 3

(Inside the Labyrinth of Memories, in a slightly larger part of the maze, with Panther, Flare, and Skull)

As Panther sat up after coming to, she realized she was in a walled-off area, with hedges as far as the eye could see. As she groaned Panther spoke up.

"Oww, did they really have to make the landing so rough on us?" Panther asked as Flare spoke up from nearby.

"I don't know, but I feel like that could've been a softer landing for us. But at least we only landed on grassy turf, unlike Joker. Remember the time he told us all about being tossed to the ground and landing on Skull's metal spine, Panther?" Flare asked as Panther winced and nodded before speaking up.

"Yep. And that was not a fun experience for Joker, as I recall." Panther said as Skull drew the girls' attention to his presence when he spoke up.

"Not fun for Joker!? What about me!? I'm the one who had Joker laid the eff out on top of me! And you'd be surprised how much of Joker's body weight is muscle, so he's heavier than he looks! But I will concede that metal is not a pleasant thing to land on." Skull said as Panther smiled and spoke up.

"I'm sure you were fine, Skull. Your ego might have gotten a bit of a bruising, but you were fine. But more importantly, where do we go from here?" Panther asked as Flare spoke up.

"Hmm, good question. Judging from the layout of our surroundings, I think the only way we can go is forward. Sure, we could probably try to burn our way through the walls to create a path to the center of the maze, but to be honest? I wouldn't be surprised if these hedges were somehow fire-proofed. So I guess we keep advancing for now. With any luck, we'll find the others closer to the center." Flare said wisely as Skull and Panther nodded their agreement.

However, as they went to take the only available path, the path became walled off as a familiar voice spoke up in a very taunting tone, causing Flare, Skull, and Panther to all exchange shocked looks, not expecting to hear this voice again so soon after the last time they'd heard it.

"Not so fast. What's the rush? You just got here. Surely you're not in THAT big of a hurry to keep going?" Skull, Panther, and Flare all heard, slowly turning to face the person who'd spoken, only for all three of them to go wide-eyed at who they saw standing there. Panther then spoke up in shock.

"Wait, what? KAMOSHIDA!? No way! Didn't we just beat you!?" Panther asked as Flare spoke up.

"Yes, we did! I remember that well, since that was when I awakened to Hester's power." Flare said as Skull spoke up.

"Maybe this is our obstacle for this maze. I could see us being expected to settle things with this disgusting son of a bitch once and for all. What do you two think? We good to face this guy again?" Skull said as Panther spoke up.

"I'd rather not have to look at Kamoshida ever again, to be honest. But I don't think we have a choice here. I feel like we're gonna have to beat him in order to advance." Panther said as Kamoshida's Shadow cackled as he spoke up.

"Very observant, for a lesbian. Shame that you and your girlfriend rejected me, but what're you gonna do? I guess all that's left now is for me to destroy you three once and for all, and then eventually start picking off those other peasants one by one. Heh, I bet I could make those uppity brats suffer if I destroy their girlfriends in front of them after having my way with them. Especially since your actions caused my castle to collapse once again upon my defeat. Don't worry though, I won't touch the one in the white dress at all, since the delinquent did raise a point that she's too young to do anything with." Kamoshida's Shadow said, before his smile slowly morphed into a sinister grin as he kept speaking.

"But then again, maybe I can make that delinquent suffer more if I first break and destroy his girlfriend in front of him, and then end that pitiful little waif in the white dress afterwards for good measure. I got the sense from his reactions to my mentions of her in our last encounter that the delinquent has gotten quite attached to her, so it could be a rather suitable punishment to him for daring to rise up against me.

Of course, I'll deal with that mangy cat and the delinquent's brother later, since they rose up against me too. Either way, you'll all be destroyed in the end. Now, shall we settle things, you three? Maybe I'll save you for last so I can make you watch as I make examples out of Takamaki and Suzui, Sakamoto?" Kamoshida's Shadow said as Panther, Flare, and Skull grimaced in disgust and rage as Flare spoke up.

"EWWW! You would really visit such sick and deranged punishments on us? How dare you!? I think you might actually be beyond redemption, Kamoshida!" Flare said as Panther and Skull nodded their agreement as they assumed battle-ready stances as Kamoshida's Shadow smirked and spoke up.

"Good. I see that you three are ready. Let's settle this, once and for all!" Kamoshida's Shadow said as he glared at the group before he transformed into his demon form as a fight began! As the fight began, Kamoshida's Shadow snapped his fingers and spoke up.

"I don't think there's a need to hold anything back here. So let's cut straight to the killshots! SLAVE! Bring me my ball!" Kamoshida's Shadow said as the cognitive look-alike of Flare that had shown up the last time Skull, Panther and Flare had confronted Kamoshida's Shadow along the rest of the group ran out onto the battlefield with a volleyball in hand, while also giving Kamoshida's Shadow a very coy yet submissive smile, much to the disgust of the real Flare, who spoke up.

"I still can't believe that's how this disgusting piece of shit sees me! And to imagine, he apparently sees Panther the same way! So gross! Granted, I bet the other you looked incredibly sexy in her bikini, but she's still not the real you, Panther." Flare said as Panther blushed and spoke up.

"N-No, she's not. And to be honest, I was too busy being disgusted at how the other me was dressed to really look her over. But now that you say it, I do remember she was incredibly sexy. If nothing else, she sure had Mona wrapped around her finger without trying to." Panther said, giggling as she recalled how shocked and awed the then-feline member of the Phantom Thieves in question had been when the other Panther had come out to embrace Kamoshida's Shadow. At that point, Skull spoke up.

"Look out!" Skull said as Panther and Flare gasped and barely dove out of the way of the volleyball attack that had nearly knocked both of them off their feet as it hit the spot where they'd previously been standing and created a big explosion. Kamoshida's Shadow then spoke up with a scoff.

"Shoot, I missed? Must be losing my edge. SLAVE! ATTACK THOSE PEASANTS!" Kamoshida's Shadow said as the cognitive look-alike of Flare nodded subserviently, walking forward to aim a powerful kick at Skull, sending him backwards to the ground while coyly looking at the real Flare along with Panther as she spoke up.

"Ooh, aren't you two quite the pair of sexy ladies? Very nice. Maybe we should forget about this battle and get more intimate, if you catch my drift." The cognitive look-alike of Flare suggested, making Kamoshida's Shadow frown as he spoke up.

"HEY! I told you to fight them, not seduce them! Sure, I admit it could be interesting to see you seduce the women into a threesome, but not until after you finish off Sakamoto so he can't interfere with your fun." Kamoshida's Shadow said as the cogntive look-alike of Flare spoke up.

"Right, good idea. Sorry, Mister Kamoshida." The cognitive look-alike of Flare said before pulling out a cognitive recreation of Flare's Fukiya and shooting a pair of darts into Skull's arm, blasting him backwards with mixed Ice and Nuclear damage and bringing him to a knee as Kamoshida's Shadow grinned and spoke up.

"Good, he's finally at my mercy. TIME TO FINISH YOU OFF WITH ONE MORE KILLSHOT!" Kamoshida's Shadow said as he was tossed a volleyball by the cognitive look-alike of Flare, which he spiked towards the downed Skull, slamming it into him and taking him to the ground, causing Panther and Flare to gasp as the former ran to Skull's side to heal him after Skull angrily yanked the darts out of his arm while Flare stared down her cognitive look-alike and spoke up.

"While I commend you in having good taste in women, how dare you hurt my friend like that?" Flare asked, tackling her cognitive look-alike to the ground where the two got into a cat-fight, rolling around in a rolling ball of fists and kicks, making Kamoshida's Shadow smirk as Panther managed to get Skull back on his feet in time for him to speak up.

"Thanks, Panther. That one hurt like a bitch. We can't take any more hits like that!" Skull said as Panther and Flare nodded their agreement before Flare looked at Panther and spoke up.

"Skull has a point, Panther. Also, I know she looks like me, but we have to defeat that other me if we're going to cut off Kamoshida's main method of attacking us. I'm sure I'll be fine, so let's not hold anything back." Flare said as Skull nodded and spoke up.

"I agree. And come to think of it, this setting we're in might just be perfect to try out a move I had the idea for while I was talking with Joker when we waited for Seraphim to recover from her awakening." Skull said as Panther spoke up in surprise.

"A new move? You mean like a Triad Special, perhaps?" Panther said as Skull nodded and spoke up.

"Yeah, that. There is a bit of a catch with this move, though. And that catch is that in order to make this move work, it would require you and Flare specifically to help out for it. Can you two handle that, or is it too soon for that?" Skull asked as Panther spoke up with a confused look on her face.

"I'm not against it, but why me and Flare specifically?" Panther asked as Skull spoke up.

"Umm, because part of the move requires a bit of girl on girl stuff to be pulled off? And in my defense, you and Flare were the only girl/girl couple in the group when I came up with this move. Also, it'd be way less awkward asking you two to help than to ask Seraphim and her crush, since not only are they still unsure of if they want to be girlfriends, but they're also a fair bit younger than the two of you." Skull said as Flare smiled and spoke up.

"Exactly what sort of girl on girl stuff does it require, Skull?" Flare asked as Skull spoke up.

"Uhh, kissing and possibly a bit of petting/caressing along with possibly a bit of intimacy? Not fully sure, since I haven't really had time to flesh out the particulars of the move yet." Skull said as Panther frowned at Skull and spoke up irately.

"Wait, WHAT!? You want us to help you try out a move that you've not fully ironed out the logistics of!? And you wait until NOW to ask us about it?" Panther said irately as Flare spoke up.

"Calm down, sexy. I don't think Skull was trying to wait until now on purpose. He probably just didn't have a good opportunity to approach us about the move. Hmm, but even with that being said, I don't really see a problem with Skull's suggestion so far, other than the fact we'd be basically giving that creep over there a free show." Flare said comfortingly while patting Panther gently on the shoulder as Kamoshida's Shadow grinned and spoke up.

"Ooh, a free show, you say? Interesting. Maybe it'll actually be enjoyable." Kamoshida's Shadow said before attempting to stab Skull in the leg with a fork, making Skull gasp as he narrowly jumped out of the way of the attack before glaring at Kamoshida's Shadow and speaking up.

"DUDE! What the hell!? Are you trying to break my leg again, you bastard? Not cool!" Skull said as Panther gave a reluctant sigh before glaring at Skull while she spoke up.

"Well, I guess we DO need to do SOMETHING to get past Kamoshida before he has any more opportunities to try and stab us with that fork or hit us with another of his killshots. Ugh, fine! We'll do it. But this does not leave this area, Skull! GOT IT!?" Panther said as Skull nodded and spoke up.

"Understood. This stays between us until you two say otherwise. That being said, I take it you'll help?" Skull asked as Panther and Flare nodded, both blushing at the idea of what they were about to do. Skull smirked and spoke up.

"Sweet! Let's try it out!" Skull said as Panther and Flare nodded before all three spoke up in unison.

"GO, TRIAD SPECIAL!" Skull, Panther, and Flare said as their Triad Special started! Skull smirked and spoke up after summoning Saiten Taisei.

"SEITEN TAISEI, SET THE STAGE!" Skull said as Seiten Taisei nodded, snapping his fingers and dimming the lighting of the area while also causing rather intimate-sounding music to start playing in the background and dropping a few stray bolts of lightning that hit both Kamoshida's Shadow and the cognitive Flare and left them both paralyzed in place and helpless to do anything but watch as Panther spoke up.

"And that's our cue! Ready, Flare?" Panther said as Flare nodded, blushing slightly even as she spoke up.

"Always, Panther." Flare said as she walked forward to press her lips slowly and sensually to Panther's, making her giggle as she spoke up while returning Flare's kiss.

"Mmm, so naughty. Is it getting really warm right now Flare, or is it just me?" Panther said as Hecate took her unspoken cue and charged up a burst of Fire energy as Flare spoke up with a giggle.

"Maybe it's both? You've always been so very hot and sexy, Panther. So I could see it being both." Flare said as she coyly but eagerly pressed herself up flush against Panther and gave her a very sensual but passionate kiss, making Panther blush and smile at how close Flare was to her while eagerly returning the kiss as Hester started discreetly charging up power as well, causing a burst of Ice energy to slowly charge up in one hand.

As Flare and Panther immersed themselves in making out passionately for the viewing enjoyment of Kamoshida's Shadow and the cognitive Flare, Seiten Taisei crept up next to Hecate and Hester and started charging up a burst of Electric energy in the cannon-like opening on the tip of his sword as Panther and Flare started running their hands all over each other, giving off mixed moans and mewls of enjoyment as Panther spoke up while giving Flare a smile that was a mix of coy and seductive.

"Flare, behave! I understand that you're in the mood to fool around right now, but we do have an audience, you know!" Panther said, as Flare giggled and spoke up.

"Oh, I'm well aware that we have an audience right now. But doesn't that just make what we're doing even hotter, knowing we have witnesses to our love?" Flare said as Panther blushed and spoke up before cutely squeaking as she felt Flare spank her playfully.

"Oh, my! Are you trying to seduce me, Flare? I hope you know that if you're trying to play with me, you're playing with FIRE!" Panther said as Flare smiled and spoke up.

"Oh, I'm fully aware of that, Panther. But just as your element is Fire, mine is ICE!" Flare said as Skull smirked and spoke up with a wry grin.

"Ooh, get a load of all this steamy action! Is it just me, or is Panther and Flare's foreplay getting positively ELECTRIC in here!?" Skull said with a grin, getting giggles in response from Panther and Flare, who merely winked slyly at Skull as Hecate, Hester, and Seiten Taisei all took their unspoken cues and aimed their respective attacks at Kamoshida's Shadow and the cognitive Flare, as all three spoke up to finish the Triad Special.

"AND NOW TO END IT! HAVE A TASTE OF OUR HELLISH ELEMENTAL TRINITY!" Skull, Panther, and Flare said as Seiten Taisei, Hecate, and Hester all combined their attacks together and fired them, causing a giant multi-colored sphere of Electric, Fire, and Ice energy to fly forward and collide squarely into Kamoshida's Shadow and the cognitive Flare, bringing the former to a knee and reducing the latter to a puddle that evaporated into black mist as Kamoshida's Shadow screamed out in agony as he was slowly engulfed in the ensuring explosion. Once the smoke cleared, Kamoshida's Shadow was lying on the ground, who had now changed back to his human form and was now breathing heavily. As Panther, Skull, and Flare advanced on him as their Triad Special ended, along with the battle. Skull then spoke up.

"Look how the tables have turned, Kamoshida. Hard to believe that we were at your mercy at one point. Now, the shoe's on the other foot! How does it feel to be helpless and at the mercy of those you once tormented, Kamoshida!? I bet it effin' sucks!" Skull said as Kamoshida's Shadow winced and spoke up.

"You're not wrong, Sakamoto. It's very unpleasant. But I'm powerless to do much but take it at this point, since you beat me fair and square. And if you decide to exact revenge on me for what I did, I accept that, since what I did was wholly unforgivable. And no amount of apologizing or repenting can take back what I've done." Kamoshida's Shadow said as Panther spoke up.

"I'm glad you're repentant, but isn't it a bit late for you to be remorseful for your actions? After all, not only did you nearly take Skull's future away, but you drove both me and Flare into a dark place. If not for the interventions of Joker and the others, and for the medical staff managing to heal Flare as well as they did, who knows where any of us would be right now? However, as I said when we beat you the first time, killing you is too easy of a punishment for what you've done. No, I'm going to make you live with the guilt of what you've done! Besides, if anyone here has the right to end you, it's Flare!

After all, it's because of your actions that she tried to end her own life! Thankfully, she wasn't able to do so. After all, if she had succeeded, she and I wouldn't be in the relationship we are in right now. So I guess, if you think about it, we actually owe you a bit of gratitude, as unlikely as it seems. After all, had you not pushed her to do what she did, we might never have stood up to you, and in turn, I might never have found the courage to tell Flare that I love her.

More than that, she's the love of my life, and probably even my soulmate. Truth be told, she might be the one I want to spend the rest of my life with. But I won't spring that on her right here, if only because this really isn't the best time or place for that. But I will probably do it at some point in the future." Panther said as Flare gasped and spoke up, not expecting to hear Panther express her true feelings for her.

"Panther? I had no idea you felt that strongly about me. Thank you." Flare said to Panther before looking at Kamoshida's Shadow and speaking up.

"And I agree with what Panther said before. Killing you would be giving you the easy way out. No, instead you have to live with the guilt of your crimes for the rest of your life. Now begone from our sight, and never bother us again!" Flare said as Kamoshida's Shadow nodded once and spoke up.

"I understand. I will do as you ask. Not that you want to hear this from me, but I wish you both the best in your relationship. Farewell." Kamoshida's Shadow said as he slumped over, but instead of flashing in a burst of light or dissolving into black mist, his body split into two, and each half glowed a different color before shifting into the forms of Skull and Panther's Tier 1 Personas, Captain Kidd and Carmen.

To Skull and Panther's shock, Seiten Taisei and Hecate came out at that point, bowing to their respective Tier 1 counterparts. At that point, Captain Kidd and Seiten Taisei resonated and fused together into a new being at the same time that Carmen and Hecate fused together into another new being.

Where Captain Kidd and Seiten Taisei once stood now stood a being who wore mostly black leather like Captain Kidd had, but like Seiten Taisei, the new being was standing on a hover device, in this case a silver rocket-like ship with a ring in the back. If you looked closely, you could see the red and black headphones around the being's neck, just below his skull-like facemask that covered his mouth and jaw, and his upper face was covered by a pair of silver-framed sunglasses with red lenses that looked somewhat similar to a mask, and in the being's left hand was a sword that looked vaguely similar to a chainsaw, but with the orange top part having an opening that is like a cannon.

As the new being posed, Skull noticed the accents of yellow on the inner lining of its coat, as well as its black leather pants and boots that completed his look along with the studded black belt on his waist that held up the black leather pants. Skull grinned and spoke up.

"Yo, wassup, Persona!? Looks like I still had more power in me after all. This is so effin' sick!" Skull said as he smirked and kept speaking, invoking the name of his new Persona which had instinctively come to him in that moment.

"Right on! I think I've awakened to my true power! Ready to give 'em hell with me, William!?" Skull asked as the now-named William nodded once and spoke up.

"Of course. After all, I am thou, and thou art I. So let us continue to raise your banner of rebellion together going forward, Skull!" William said, getting a nod of agreement from Skull before vanishing into Skull's soul as the group's attention shifted to the being that stood where Carmen and Hecate had stood.

Unlike William, this being was much more distinctly feminine, between the twin bright red ponytails that flowed most of the way down her back for a while, making Panther and Flare wince as they noticed what appeared to be a Shadow being squeezed by the right ponytail. And if that wasn't bad enough, Panther noticed that the new being who'd replaced Hecate was standing on another Shadow, her foot standing dominantly on the Shadow's back, forcing it onto its knees to support the weight being applied to it. Panther smirked and spoke up, invoking the name of her newly-transformed Persona much as Skull had done for William.

"Hm? Is this my true power? If so, nice! Hopefully the others won't tease me about this too much when they find out about it. But I'm also not surprised, since this is me we're talking about. Let's work together, Celestine!" Panther said as the now-named Celestine smiled and spoke up.

"I couldn't agree more, Panther. I am the true power of your heart given form. Together, we can bring our enemies to their knees. And as long as I'm around, you never have to fear being unable to protect those you care about. Now embrace my power and let us carry on together as we do what's right and save the world!" Celestine said as Panther smiled and nodded her agreement before feeling Celestine return to her soul as the phones of everyone in the group, minus Nanako who'd not yet been added to the group chat, pinged to signify that Skull and Panther's 'Seiten Taisei' and 'Hecate' Personas had transformed into 'William' and 'Celestine', respectively.

Afterwards, Panther and Skull felt something shift inside them, as they became aware of new potential in themselves. At the same time, they were given new Master Arts in the forms of 'Fighting Spirit' and 'High Energy', respectively. Afterwards, Skull spoke up.

"Well, now that that's done, I suppose now we keep going through that path that just opened up?" Skull said, pointing towards where the wall ahead of them had been relaxed after the defeat of Kamoshida's Shadow. Flare nodded and spoke up.

"Seems accurate to me, Skull. After all, the sooner we reach the end of this maze, the sooner we can presumably find the others." Flare said as Panther nodded and spoke up.

"I agree. Let's get going." Panther said as the trio headed through the opened path, not realizing that they'd walked through a portal as they did so...

(In another part of the maze, with Fox)

As he got up and looked around, Fox frowned as he spoke to himself after realizing no one else was around.

"Good lord! Is this the maze!? If not for the fact I'm trapped in it, this would actually make for quite a dynamic muse for my art. But alas, I haven't brought any of my supplies, so all I can do is try and find a way out. And it would seem that I only have one path available to me." Fox said as he made to walk forward, only for the path forward to become obstructed as a hedge wall popped up in front of Fox, who frowned and spoke up.

"What the heck is this?" Fox said as a low chuckle from nearby drew Fox's attention as he heard a familiar voice speak up, one he'd not heard in a bit over four years.

"Really? I know it's been a while, but surely you still recognize my voice, Yusuke? After all, I was the one who took you in and raised you after your mother died when you were just three years old." Fox heard as he slowly turned around and gasped as he recognized the old man standing before him in a gold kimono with a white and red obi and cream colored robes underneath it. Furthermore, the fact he had his hair pulled into an elaborate white upward ponytail, allowing Fox a good view of the pale face and piercing yellow eyes on the old man currently staring him down.

"W-What? SENSEI!? How are you not in prison right now? And more importantly, how did we not change your heart?" Fox asked as Madarame's Shadow spoke up.

"You did defeat me and change my heart. However, the Monarch of this place, in all of his wisdom and benevolence, saw fit to bring me here as part of this maze. Apparently, he wanted a handful of your group's former foes placed as obstacles in this maze. Unfortunately for you, I think you know what has to happen now." Madarame's Shadow said as he shifted forms into a gaggle of floating paintings, two of which were of eyes, one was of a nose, and a fourth painting that was of a mouth. Fox winced as he spoke up.

"Ah, this again. I guess I have no choice but to defeat you so I can catch up with my friends. Very well, then. I'd rather not fight you, but I don't have any other option. En guarde!" Fox said as he brandished his katana and took a battle-ready stance as a fight began! As the fight began, Madarame's Shadow, or rather the paintings he'd assumed the forms of, spoke up.

"Ready, Yusuke? It's time to show you the error of rising up against me!" Madarame's Shadow said as the mouth painting extended its tongue out to lick Fox, making him recoil in horror as the eyes blasted him with attacks and the nose attempted to hit him with status ailments. Fox then spoke up.

"Disgusting! Sensei, why have you let yourself turn into this repulsive form once again? Surely you have no reason to revert to your old ways?" Fox said as Madarame's Shadow spoke up.

"Yusuke, you naive fool. After losing everything, all I have left is my revenge! Once I eliminate you and then those other brats who turned you against me, then I can start to regain my honor within the art world." Madarame's Shadow said as Fox spoke up with a frown.

"ENOUGH! If you won't listen to reason, I have no choice but to knock some sense into you!" Fox said as he summoned Kamu Susano-o and posed as he felt his Showtime finish charging up.

"Good, it's time for my finisher! SHOWTIME!" Fox said as he started his Showtime by putting his fingers into a frame shape around Madarame's Shadow while he spoke up.

"HA! Such beauty! And beauty, as we all know, is DEADLY!" Fox said as Kamu Susano-o breathed a torrent of ice onto Madarame's Shadow, prompting Fox to charge energy in his sword and speak up as he swung it towards Madarame's Shadow.

"PULL! This is your end!" Fox said as he sheathed his sword epically after he unleashed a wave of mixed Ice and Almighty energy into the array of paintings, which clattered noisily to the ground as the fight and Fox's Showtime ended. After the fight, Madarame's Shadow turned back to normal and spoke up.

"Impressive. You have grown so strong, Yusuke. Could it be that I was the person who was naive and short-sighted?" Madarame's Shadow said as Fox spoke up.

"Madarame...no, Sensei. For so long, you were not only like a sensei, but also like a father, to me. So you have no idea how much it hurts to have to bring you to justice, but I also know you can't be allowed to continue on the path you're on. All that awaits you is greed, corruption, and just all around darkness within darkness. But I know there's still good in you, even now. Prove me right, and go back to your real self, and don't come back this time." Fox said as Madarame's Shadow spoke up.

"You're right, Yusuke. I'll go now. For what it's worth? I approve of your chosen path in life. Truly, you've come a long way from the sheltered and somewhat naive boy you were when we last saw one another to a hardened, slightly wizened, and more mature man with a very lovely and supportive girlfriend. I'm sorry for all I put you through, including my part in the death of your mother. Farewell, my old student, and I wish you luck on your path into the art world." Madarame's Shadow said before kneeling down and flashing blue as his form shifted into that of Goemon, Fox's original Persona. At that point, Kamu Susano-o also appeared and bowed to Goemon, who bowed back as the two resonated and fused together in twin bursts of blue light.

Afterwards, where Goemon and Kamu Susano-o once stood now stood one being, a being with flowing dark blue hair that was styled into what Fox recognized as a pompadour, which gave a good view of the red triangular glasses that were in front of its dark brown eyes. Around the being's shoulders was a flowing pink cape with areas with white and black leopard-print patterns that covered most of his otherwise bare chest that only had a pair of black suspenders on them that held up his black leather pants which were tucked partially into his white pointed-toe shoes. Fox gasped as he looked at the being in front of him and spoke up.

"Kamu Susano-o? Is that you?" Fox asked as the being shook his head and spoke up.

"No. I am no longer Kamu Susano-o. I have become a fusion of him and Goemon. You may now call me Gorokichi, as I am the embodiment of your true power, Fox." The now-named Gorokichi said as Fox spoke up.

"My true power, you say? So you mean to tell me that I had this much untapped potential of me this whole time still?" Fox asked as Gorokichi merely nodded before disappearing into Yusuke's heart as the group's phones (excluding Nanako and Akane's) once again pinged, this time to signify that Fox's 'Kamu Susano-o' Persona had transformed into 'Gorokichi'. At that same time, Fox felt as if something new had awakened deep inside of him as the transformation had given way to a new Master Art for Fox in the form of 'Hyakka Ryouran'. Afterwards, Fox nodded to himself and kept going through the now-open portal in front of him...

(In another part of the maze, with Queen)

After she regained consciousness, Queen sat up and looked around, frowning as she didn't see anyone around, realizing that she was in a maze, and that the area she was in appeared to be a corner section of the maze, which was a bit bigger than she expected. Queen then frowned more as she realized that the way behind her was walled off, leaving only one path forward, which she made to take, only for a sneering voice to speak up.

"Well, well. If it isn't my little sister. Here to cause more problems?" Queen heard, gasping as she recognized the voice that had spoken, slowly turning around to see a familiar figure wearing a black leather dress with a slit down one side, showing a generous amount of leg as her dress hugged her figure nicely. Queen spoke up.

"No way! Sis!? Why are you here? Or should I say, why is your Shadow here!?" Queen asked as Sae's Shadow smirked and spoke up.

"It's quite simple actually, it's because you and your group never defeated me. Unlike most of your other foes, you failed to take my Treasure when you beat me. That, and the Monarch of this place saw fit to ask me to help patrol this maze. I see now that I made the right choice since now I get to face off against you once again. Tell me, have you gotten any stronger since our last encounter, my dear useless younger sister?" Sae's Shadow asked as Queen spoke up.

"I could ask you the same thing. But I suppose it's unavoidable that we'll have to fight, since I'm pretty sure that the only way to move forward is to defeat you, Sis! So prepare yourself to fall once again!" Queen said as Sae's Shadow smirked and spoke up.

"Good! Let's do this! Good luck, and may the best player win!" Sae's Shadow said as she shifted into her monster form, which had a giant gun for one hand, a sword for the other, and wore a pointed metal bra and a skin-tight black leather bodysuit, as the fight began! As the fight started, Sae's Shadow spoke up.

"Still gonna bleat on about fairness and justice, Makoto? Or are you going to continue to weigh me down and be useless to me, like you so often are!?" Sae's Shadow said as she fired her gun arm at Queen, who had to leap backwards to avoid the shots and almost slammed into the wall behind her, only to barely miss it. At that point, Queen spoke up.

"I'm not useless, Sis! I might have been when I was younger, but I've gotten a lot stronger since then! Also, you may not have known this, but you already went through a change of heart. Even if we didn't take your Treasure, you helped us stop Shido and you also saved Ren. But I guess the inner parts of you have not gotten the chance to reunite with your other self. For that, I will make sure you fully repent as I should have done four years ago!" Queen said as she squared up and aimed a left hook at Sae's Shadow, nailing her in the jaw and sending her reeling as Sae's Shadow spoke up.

"Not bad. But not good enough. Let me show you how a real attack looks, Makoto!" Sae's Shadow said, swinging her sword arm at Queen, who barely hit the ground in time to miss being struck by the oncoming attack. At that point, Queen pulled out her guns and fired at Sae's Shadow, forcing it backwards as she spoke up.

"Trying to kill me now, huh? I didn't think you hated me so much. No matter, though. I refuse to be broken by you! COME, ANAT!" Queen said as she called her Persona out and hopped on top of it before crashing it into Sae's Shadow, causing an explosion of Nuclear energy that threw her backwards to the ground as Queen landed safely on the ground at the same time she felt her Showtime finish charging while Sae's Shadow spoke up once more.

"Impressive. You have some fight in you after all, it would seem. Perhaps this might prove to be worth my time after all? Well, no matter. Let's see what else you've got!" Sae's Shadow said as she aimed her gun arm at Queen and fired many bullets at her, which Queen skillfully dodged before smiling as she spoke up.

"Good, my finisher is ready. YOU SAY YOU WANT TO SEE WHAT ELSE I'VE GOT!? WELL, LOOKS LIKE YOU'RE ABOUT TO GET YOUR WISH, SIS! IT'S TIME TO END THIS! IT'S SHOWTIME!" Queen said as her Showtime began! After summoning Anat once more, Queen got on top of Anat and revved her engine as she did circles around Sae's Shadow and spoke up.

"GUN IT, ANAT!" Queen said as she did donuts around Sae's Shadow, generating a torrent of Nuclear energy as Queen leapt up into the air, fist primed to strike as she spoke up while diving down towards Sae's Shadow.

"FEEL MY RAGE, SIS! FIST! OF! JUSTICE!" Queen said as she slammed her fist into the ground, causing a nuclear explosion that lifted Sae's Shadow off of her feet, slamming her into the hedge wall behind her, where she impacted and flopped down face-first to the ground, where she shifted back to normal as both Queen's Showtime and the fight ended. After the fight, Sae's Shadow looked up as she got to one knee.

"Impressive. You've gotten quite tough, Makoto. Maybe I was too quick to call you useless before. I'm sorry. Keep doing what you think is right, and don't let anyone deter you from your ambitions. Show the world how strong and fearless you are, Makoto." Sae's Shadow said as Queen spoke up.

"Of course. Hopefully this time, you've been changed for the better." Queen said as Sae's Shadow smiled and spoke up.

"Silly Makoto. I was already changed for the better. This was just to test the strength of your resolve. And you passed magnificently. Go now and catch up to your friends, little sister." Sae's Shadow said with a smile before being bathed in a dark-blue glow, at which point she shifted forms into what Queen recognized as her original Persona, Johanna.

At that point, Anat appeared and bowed to Johanna before the two resonated and fused together in a display of dark-blue lights. When the light receded, in place of Johanna and Anat stood a motorcycle, similar to Johanna, but with more black to it, and with a giant gold frontal fin in front of its front tire. Queen looked over the new Persona and spoke up.

"Wow. This is my true potential, isn't it? Amazing." Queen said as the being she was looking at spoke up in a deceptively feminine sounding voice.

"Yes, Queen. This is your true power! I am no longer Anat. I am now Agnes, the true form of Johanna! As long as we work together, we have nothing to fear! Together, we'll make our enemies feel our rage!" The now-named Agnes said as Queen nodded, gently patting the front of Agnes as she spoke up.

"I see. Well, thank you for letting me awaken to your power, Agnes. Let us continue to work well together." Queen said as Agnes nodded and vanished into Queen's heart as the group's phones pinged once more, this time with the notification that Queen's 'Anat' Persona had transformed into 'Agnes'. At the same time, Queen felt something stir inside her before becoming cognizant that she'd acquired a new Master Art in the form of 'Checkmate'. Afterwards, Queen stood up and walked on ahead, towards the only open path, walking into the open portal...

(In yet another part of the maze, with Oracle and Pendragon)

As Oracle sat up and looked around, she groaned at the amount of hedges she could see and spoke up.

"Really? Did I seriously get marooned by myself in the middle of a hedge maze?" Oracle asked as Pendragon spoke up.

"No. I'm here too. But it does seem as if we got separated from the others." Pendragon said as Oracle nodded and spoke up.

"That makes sense. I'm guessing we all got separated from each other when we went into the maze. Unfortunately, with all these hedges everywhere, I have no clue where anyone else even is." Oracle said as Pendragon spoke up.

"Hmm. I wonder if you can hover above this maze with Al Azif to try and scan the area?" Pendragon asked as Oracle spoke up.

"I could, but I'm willing to bet that the Monarch of this Jail turned this place into a no-fly zone. Therefore, it'd be incredibly risky to attempt a scan of the area with my Persona. After all, if I'm right about this being a no-fly zone, then I'm not so sure I'd want to risk trying it, only to have Al Azif forced to the ground and causing my energy to be drained as a result. So I'll play it safe and not go for an analysis yet." Oracle said as Pendragon nodded and spoke up.

"Fair enough. Well, I suppose for now our only path forward is to keep moving. So shall we?" Pendragon asked as Oracle nodded and the two headed towards the path ahead of them since the path behind them was blocked off, as were the paths to either side of them. But as they reached the path forward, a wall sprang up in front of them as a familiar voice spoke up derisively.

"Well, well. Looks like it's my lucky day! Are you here to pay me the money you owe me, Sojiro!? Or are you going to just hand over this cursed little bitch as a payoff? I don't mind if that's your plan. I'm sure I could make a pretty good amount off of putting Futaba to work, if I had to." Pendragon heard as Oracle shuddered and hid behind Pendragon as he spoke up.

"Somehow, I'm not surprised YOU would be our obstacle, Youji. Don't you think that Wakaba would be disappointed in how you're acting towards us!? And especially so with how you just insinuated you would basically make Oracle use her body to help you pay off your debts? That's your niece that you're talking about doing that to, you know!" Pendragon rebuked the now-named Youji's Shadow as he cackled and spoke up.

"Her? My niece!? Ever since Wakaba died, Futaba's been nothing more than a burden who isn't worth anything to anyone! However, she is just about at the right age where I could probably get some people to pay good money for a chance to make her their personal plaything for a time, if you catch my drift." Youji's Shadow said as Pendragon gasped and spoke up while Oracle shuddered in a mix of horror and anxiety at the implications of what Youji's Shadow had just said.

"WHAT!? Are you out of your mind!? Why would I EVER put Oracle through such inhuman treatment as that!? Not happening!" Pendragon said protectively as Oracle spoke up in a surprisingly confident voice, even if it was partially shaky.

"U-Uncle!? Are you seriously saying you'd literally whore me out to repay your debts? I dunno how to tell you this, but that's not gonna work. I have a boyfriend now, and I'm quite sure he'd have something to say about you whoring me out like I'm some sort of glorified sex toy! So I'm going to have to respectfully pass. However, what I WILL do for you, with Pendragon's help, is get rid of you! I know you're not really Uncle Youji, since he apologized for how he treated me when Draconis, Joker, and I beat him close to four years ago.

No...you're nothing more than a cognitive fake that the Monarch of this place conjured to try and slow Pendragon and I down. Well, that's not gonna happen! We're gonna defeat you!" Oracle said, brandishing her beam staff after turning on either end of her weapon. At the same time, Pendragon brandished his sword in one hand and spoke up, the other hand raising his shield.

"I agree with Oracle! We're not letting you have your way with her! So prepare yourself to be defeated!" Pendragon said as Youji's Shadow laughed and spoke up.

"Oh? So you intend to fight back? Amusing. This I have to see! Very well, bring it on!" Youji's Shadow said as he changed forms into a massive elephant-like being that Oracle recognized from seeing Joker use one as a 'Girimekhala'. At that point, a fight began! As the fight started, Youji's Shadow spoke up.

"So, you think you can stop me? Show me what you've got!" Youji's Shadow said as he brandished a sword and swung it at Oracle, only for Pendragon to block it with his shield, pushing it harmlessly away from Oracle. Oracle then swung her beam staff at Youji's Shadow, pushing him backwards, only for him to use his belly to knock Oracle backwards into Pendragon, knocking both to the ground on impact. After they got up, Pendragon frowned and spoke up.

"That was rude! Let me show you what I think of that! KOHRYU, PUNISH THIS SCUMBAG!" Pendragon said as he summoned Kohryu, who lunged at Youji's Shadow, blasting him point-blank with an orb of Psy power, only for Oracle and Pendragon to gasp in horror as Youji's Shadow brushed the attack off like it was nothing. Youji's Shadow then spoke up.

"Is that really the best you can do? I hope not, for your sakes." Youji's Shadow said as Oracle spoke up.

"We're far from done! But let me show you what I mean! SHOWTIME!" Oracle said as she started her Showtime! Oracle hefted her staff and glared at Youji's Shadow as she kept speaking.

"Time to get some payback! KIYA!" Oracle said as she keyed off and did a pole-vault off the ground with her beam staff, aiming a flying kick at Youji's Shadow, which hit him in the stomach, sending him reeling in time for Oracle to gesture for Al Azif to drop a bomb down, which he did. Afterwards, Oracle used her beam staff and lined it up with the bomb as if shooting a billiards shot, speaking up as she did so.

"Energy bomb, corner pocket!" Oracle said as she thrusted her beam staff at the bomb as if shooting a pool cue, making the bomb fly forward into Youji's Shadow, exploding in his face as Oracle spoke up.

"You know what they say, Uncle. Those who go around behaving wickedly are prone to being struck by lightning from above. But here, don't take my word for it! See for yourself! NOW, ALBUS!" Oracle said as Albus nodded, waving his wand as a giant bolt of lightning dropped down and struck Youji's Shadow for massive damage as Oracle took aim with her wrist laser, and shot Youji's Shadow in the face as she backflipped away, landing on the ground as a giant explosion went off where Youji's Shadow was, leaving him singed and blinking, but otherwise undamaged from the attack as Oracle's Showtime ended. Youji's Shadow blinked and spoke up.

"Wow, that actually hurt. Not bad. But not good enough!" Youji's Shadow said as Pendragon spoke up.

"Oh? Maybe you'll find my Showtime more to your liking?" Pendragon asked rhetorically as Oracle spoke up.

"Ooh, are you going to hit him too, Pendragon? Get him!" Oracle said as Pendragon nodded and spoke up.

"I'll try. Here goes. SHOWTIME!" Pendragon said as his Showtime started! As Pendragon's Showtime started, he leapt up onto Kohryu's back, at which point he spoke up.

"COME, KOHRYU! Let's scorch 'em!" Pendragon said as Kohryu nodded, breathing down a torrent of Psy-based flame through the use of 'Psiodyne' as Pendragon took aim with his sword and leapt up into the air.

"HA! Now to rock their world!" Pendragon said as he leapt into the air and dove down, sword extended, crashing hard into the ground sword-first and creating a shock-wave that slammed right into Youji's Shadow, slamming him hard into the ground, creating a crater of Psy power that knocked Youji's Shadow flat on his back as Pendragon pulled his sword from the ground and spoke up.

"HOW DO YOU LIKE ME NOW!?" Pendragon said as Youji's Shadow groaned and slumped over to end both the Showtime and the battle. After the battle, Youji's Shadow reverted back to his normal form and panted as he spoke up once more.

"Oof, you got me good this time. It would seem I underestimated you Sojiro, as well as Futaba." Youji's Shadow said as Pendragon spoke up.

"You did indeed. However, even after what you've done, it's not my wrath or Oracle's you have to be afraid of." Pendragon said as Youji's Shadow scoffed and spoke up.

"Oh, really? And exactly who else is around for me to fear the wrath of?" Youji asked derisively, before he jumped in surprise with Pendragon and Oracle as a familiar voice was heard speaking up.

"How about MY wrath!? Or did you think I wouldn't be watching from above after I passed away to see what happened to my daughter, Youji!? How dare you treat her so inhumanely! Luckily for her, Sojiro stepped in and saved Futaba from the hell you put her through! And to think, he did all that when he thought he was just protecting my daughter. Little did he realize he was also protecting his own daughter. Oh well, it is what it is." Pendragon, Oracle, and Youji's Shadow all heard as they turned around to see the spirit of Futaba's mother, Wakaba, standing nearby. Oracle, Pendragon and Youji's Shadow all spoke up at the same time.

"MOM!?/WAKABA!?" Oracle, Pendragon and Youji's Shadow all asked as Pendragon kept speaking.

"Is that really you, Wakaba? Also, what the hell do you mean Futaba's my daughter? Yes, I love her like a daughter, but I don't think there was ever an established biological father for her?" Pendragon said as Wakaba's spirit smiled and spoke up.

"That's what you think, but there was in fact an established biological father, even if he was unaware of being her father this whole time. However, unbeknownst to you and Futaba, I had Futaba's DNA tested shortly after she was born against yours to test a theory of mine. Lo and behold, it came back a perfect match. So congratulations, Sojiro. You are, in fact, Futaba's biological father." Wakaba's spirit said as Pendragon and Oracle both gasped and spoke up.

"WHAT!?" Pendragon and Oracle said simultaneously as Oracle kept speaking.

"You mean to tell me Pendragon is really my biological father? That would explain a lot, actually. Namely why I find Pendragon's curry so addicting. I thought it was just because you helped make it. But if I'm actually his daughter, then it's because his coffee and curry expertise flows through my veins as well." Oracle said before surprising Pendragon by hugging him.

"Thank you for saving me from Uncle Youji, Dad! I'm glad at least one of my relatives actually cares about me." Oracle said, making Youji's Shadow wince guiltily at this as Wakaba's spirit smiled and spoke up.

"Since I know you're probably confused right now Sojiro, let me explain! One night, about 9 to 10 months before Futaba was born, you and I went out for a drink, which then turned into a few drinks. From what I was told later, the barkeeper had to help us up to a room so we could sleep it off. Suffice it to say, we got pretty plastered. So it's not that much of a surprise that our inhibitions were lowered enough to act on our feelings for each other, which led to us making love that night. And then about nine to ten months later, Futaba came along as a result of that one-off hook-up between us.

Anyways, I might never have had the chance to tell you this while I was alive, but I love you, Sojiro. So I don't regret that I slept with you while we were drunk. If we hadn't done that, we wouldn't have Futaba right now. And I know that she wound up being the perfect blend of us both. So I hope you cherish her and take excellent care of our daughter, Sojiro." Wakaba's spirit said as Pendragon smiled and spoke up.

"Y'know, I always had a feeling Oracle was a lot like me. So I'm not that shocked she's my daughter. And it would certainly explain why I love her like a daughter, if nothing else. But for now, let's stay focused on what Youji did to her." Pendragon said as Wakaba's spirit nodded and spoke up.

"Good point. And he has a LOT to answer for! For starters, how dare he subject our daughter to such abominable living conditions!? Also, I heard what you said earlier about whoring your own niece out, Youji! How despicable are you that you would use an innocent girl to repay your debts in such an immoral and unacceptable way!? You better hope for your sake that you can clean up your act before I see you again, or we're going to be having a lot of words to exchange!

Yes, my death was tragic and shocking, but that's NOT an excuse for how you and the rest of our family treated Futaba! That was just messed up! Besides, Futaba is a very wonderful, very beautiful young woman who should be able to make her own choices. Including if she chooses to get serious with her boyfriend or not." Wakaba's spirit said as she turned to look at Oracle while she kept speaking.

"And for the record, Futaba? I approve wholeheartedly of you and Kusa! I've had a couple of occasions to meet him, and he seems like a nice young man, with a good head on his shoulders. Consider my blessings freely given if you and he ever decide to tie the knot. You and Kusa are meant for one another, in my opinion. But I'll let you make your own judgment on that." Wakaba's spirit said as she then turned to Pendragon and kept speaking, smirking at the hints of a blush visible on Oracle's face behind her visor from what Wakaba's spirt had said about her and Draconis.

"Sojiro? I trust you to do right by our daughter. But I also trust you to know when to accept our daughter's choices. As it is, I can tell you also have a high opinion of Kusa, much as I do. So I feel like we both can agree he's a good match for her. But that'll be for Kusa and Futaba to decide if they want to get serious about each other or not." Wakaba's spirit said as Pendragon nodded and spoke up.

"I agree. I have the item you asked me to give to our daughter in a safe place until she's ready to receive it, or until such time as I end up allowing Draconis to give it to her instead. But I swear to you that I will do everything and anything in my power to not only keep Oracle safe, but also make her feel loved and wanted. So you can rest easy, Wakaba. Between myself and Draconis, as well as Oracle's other friends, Oracle has plenty of people who love and care about her." Pendragon said as Oracle spoke up while looking at her mother's spirit, glad she had a visor covering her face so neither Pendragon or Wakaba's spirit could see the tears in her eyes as she spoke.

"Mom, I'm so glad to see you. But I'm also sorry for not doing more to honor your memory, and for trying to shut myself away after you died. I'll try to do better to be a daughter you can be proud of. I love you so much." Oracle said as Wakaba's spirit smiled at Oracle and spoke up.

"But you already are a daughter I can be proud of, Futaba. You always were. You just had a bunch of bad luck with being put with scumbags who didn't know how to treat you, up until Sojiro finally got you into a safe and loving environment. But never doubt that I'm proud of you, or that I love you. Because I will always love you, and I'll always be proud of you, sweetie. Now keep your head up and don't grieve for me. Yes, I know I left you far too soon, but it was just my time.

Oh, and if either of you two see your friend Goro, tell him that I forgive him for his part in my death. I know he was just following that dirtbag Shido's orders in an attempt to make him acknowledge him as his son. Besides, I think we can all agree that Masayoshi Shido is the real person to blame for my death." Wakaba's spirit said as Youji's Shadow spoke up, shocking both Pendragon and Oracle with the genuinely remorseful look on his face as he spoke.

"I'm so sorry, Wakaba. I've been a terrible brother, and a lousy uncle to Futaba. I know I'm far past the point of forgiveness, but I still feel the need to apologize anyways. I should've done better by Futaba." Youji's Shadow said before turning to Pendragon and Oracle as he kept speaking.

"I'm sorry for how I've treated the both of you. I'll stop hounding you for money, Sojiro. And Futaba? You don't ever have to worry about me mistreating you again. I'll stay away from you from now on, since I likely don't deserve to call myself family to either one of you. Goodbye." Youji's Shadow said as he faded away in a flash of bright light to return to his real self, leaving just Wakaba's spirit, Oracle, and Pendragon. At that point, Wakaba's spirit spoke up after exchanging one last hug with Oracle and Pendragon.

"Well, it seems like things have worked themselves out for the most part here. I'm afraid my time is just about up too. But at least I was able to come and see you both with my own eyes again. Don't grieve for me, either of you. Always keep your heads up and think of me with a smile.

And I want you both to know something, Sojiro and Futaba. Even if it might not seem like it at times, I'm always watching over you both. Stay strong, and make sure to keep living. I love you both, and hope to see you again someday. Preferably not for a long time, though. Either way? Until then, farewell." Wakaba's spirit said as she then faded away once more, leaving Oracle and Pendragon to sigh as they watched Wakaba leave them once more before Pendragon pulled Oracle in gently to give her a comforting hug as he felt her sniffle before lifting up her visor to cry into Pendragon's chest for a bit while Pendragon just smiled and let Oracle cry for a while as he gently patted her on the back comfortingly. After Oracle cried into Pendragon's chest for a few minutes, Oracle managed to calm herself enough to pull her visor back down and speak up.

"Sorry about that, I just needed to get that out, Pendragon. I suppose we should keep moving now that the path's unblocked." Oracle said as Pendragon smiled and spoke up.

"That's fine, Oracle. I don't mind you letting your feelings out. I'm glad you're comfortable enough with me for that. And I want you to know that I'm always here for you, Oracle." Pendragon said as Oracle smiled and spoke up.

"Heh, thanks. Maybe having a dad isn't so bad after all. Well, shall we keep going...Dad?" Oracle said, making Pendragon smile fondly as he nodded. At that point, Pendragon and Oracle walked into the open portal, finding themselves in another section of the maze...

(In said other section of the maze, with Oracle, Pendragon, Mona, and Draconis)

However, what Oracle and Pendragon weren't expecting when going into this new section of the maze was that they'd actually run into another of the Phantom Thieves in this area, specifically Draconis. Oracle's eyes widened behind her visor as she spoke up.

"Is that Draconis!? I didn't think we'd catch up with him this soon. Should we let him know we're here?" Oracle asked as Pendragon shook his head before he looked at Oracle and spoke up.

"Not yet. I don't think he realizes we're here, Oracle. Let's just observe for now and see what happens before we let him know that we're here." Pendragon said wisely as Oracle nodded her agreement before the two of them got comfortable and observed. Meanwhile, Draconis looked around as he saw hedges as far as the eye can see, groaning as he spoke up, unaware that he wasn't alone.

"Jeez! I get it's a hedge maze and all, but did they really have to make these things effin' indestructible too!? Seems like overkill to me." Draconis said, as he went to check the path ahead of him, only to jump back in surprise as a hedge wall shot up right in front of him, cutting off the path forward as a mocking laugh reached Draconis' ears before a familiar voice spoke up.

"Well, well. What have we here? I told you we'd meet again, Draconis! I didn't think you'd be by yourself when we did, though." Draconis heard, frowning in confusion before gasping as a pool of black mist formed, and a familiar figure rose up from it, making him gasp and speak up, unaware of Oracle, Pendragon, and Mona, the latter of whom having entered the area through a separate portal and agreeing to observe Draconis' battle with Pendragon and Oracle, also echoing what he said next.

"SINOCARD!?" Draconis, Oracle, Pendragon, and Mona all simultaneously yelled as Draconis kept speaking.

"How the heck did you follow us here? I mean, I know you said we'd meet again after I kicked your sorry ass back in the Kyoto Jail, but I didn't think it'd be this soon? That's kinda wild. But I'm guessing this is the part where we finally settle things?" Draconis said as Sinocard smirked and spoke up.

"Partially. But first, I think you need to be honest with yourself about something. Why is it that you're always going around projecting this stoic front to everyone, when in actuality, you're trying to put on a brave face and not let on how much you're actually suffering deep inside? And if you think about it, the fact that you try to not let on how much you're suffering makes a lot of sense when considering the fact that you've had the bad luck and misfortune of having been put through hell multiple times in the past few years?

Surely you must be able to admit that you've been hurting to at least some degree from what you've been through recently, specifically the way you were basically tortured and imprisoned at the hands of that bastard scumbag Takuto Maruki close to three and a half years ago? That man put you through hell!

He not only chained you to a effing wall for literal weeks, he also starved you, had you beaten repeatedly, kept you sleep-deprived, and even had the audacity to steal both blood and cognitive energy from you! Granted, had that last one not happened, I probably wouldn't be here right now. But even so, surely you must be scarred on at least some level from all that?" Sinocard asked as Draconis gritted his teeth and spoke up.

"First of all, what business is it of yours what Maruki did to me back then? Yes, I acknowledge that you were a creation of his! But even so, that's none of your goddamn business what he put me through three and a half years ago! So freaking what if he basically tortured me and put me through hell!? I made it through in one piece, didn't I!? Yes, I acknowledge that I've made my share of mistakes, including hurting people I care about. But at the same time, I'd like to think I've gone a long way in trying to make amends for those mistakes.

Am I traumatized by what that crazy asshole did to me back then!? Yes. Am I going to let it upset me? HELL NO! If anything, that experience made me stronger! As to whether or not I cried during that time? Of course I did! I spent three friggin' weeks, if not a month, separated from my family, and from Oracle.

You try being isolated from everyone you care about for as long as I was and seeing if you don't cry a bit from that! But even so, I fail to see what the fuck ANY of that has to do with my obstacle for this maze. Clearly, you're that obstacle, but I don't see how discussing my problems is relevant to that." Draconis said as Sinocard spoke up before any of the spectators could do more than gasp at hearing what Draconis had said.

"It's very relevant. After all, I am you. So what you went through, I also went through. Including all the crap we went through before that! You don't have to hide how you feel, Draconis. I can tell. You're trying to be stoic, but deep down? Part of you is scared as hell that you could end up potentially losing those you're close to, like you nearly did four years ago when you thought Joker was killed to set that trap for Crow!

Not to mention a few months later, when Mona had the audacity to make you think he'd died? You were particularly devastated by that, even if you didn't say so. And that's not even getting into all the anger, frustration, and even resentment you felt towards Mona, Skull, and even Joker prior to that when you thought that Joker had taken Oracle away from you and broken Violet's heart in the process! And don't even get me started on all the lingering resentment you carry for-" Sinocard said before Draconis' eye twitched behind the top half of his helmet and he spoke up, ignoring the surprised looks that Oracle, Mona and Pendragon exchanged at the sheer amount of anger and venom in his voice at what he said next.

"ENOUGH ALREADY! I get the damn picture, Sinocard! You know all my innermost feelings and thoughts! That doesn't mean you have to parrot each and every one of them back at me! I'm all too aware of how I felt back then! Yes, I was heartbroken when I thought Mona had died after the fight against Yaldabaoth. But then again, I feel like you would've also been heartbroken too if you'd been in my shoes and you thought that someone you loved like a little brother had died! Not only that, but I was ready to curse Joker, Skull, and Mona out rather profusely after I thought Joker took Oracle from me.

I even admit that I was almost inconsolable when I thought Joker died after he gave himself up to give the rest of us time to escape Sae's Palace. Moreover, you're not wrong that I fear losing those closest to me. And you're even right that I was beside myself for at least a week after Joker and Mona went back to Kukojima. But you left out the part where I also had plenty of people close to me to help support me through all that. " Draconis said as Sinocard scoffed and spoke up, keeping Draconis' attention on him as he spoke and not on Mona, Oracle, and Pendragon, who were exchanging shocked looks at hearing Draconis' true feelings come from his own mouth.

"Riiight. So you say, Draconis. And I suppose that's your excuse for why you struggle to open up to people sometimes?" Sinocard said as Draocnis spoke up.

"That's besides the point, Sinocard! I struggle with opening up to others purely because sometimes I just don't have the words to express things to people. I might be eloquent and well-spoken most of the time, but that doesn't always mean that I'll always have the words to express my feelings. But then, what self-respecting man truly does manage to express his feelings accurately 100% of the time?" Draconis said dryly as Sinocard nodded, brandishing a staff as he spoke up.

"At last, you admit the truth! Now that you've gotten that off your chest, let's spar! And I'm sure that this spar will give our audience a nice show to take their minds off of everything you just admitted to in front of them!" Sinocard said as Draconis gave Sinocard a confused look before gasping as he noticed Oracle, Pendragon and Mona crouched just out of sight around a corner watching the confrontation, making Draconis sigh as he spoke up while biting back a number of swear words.

"Of course I had an audience for all that. Well, I suppose it doesn't matter, since I would've admitted all of this to them and the others eventually. But never mind that for now! Let's settle this, Sinocard! Just you and me, man-to-man. It's probably past time we had it out anyways!" Draconis said as Sinocard nodded and spoke up.

"Agreed! Let us give it all we've got! No holding back!" Sinocard said as Draconis nodded, brandishing his staff as the two charged at each other as a battle started! As the fight began, Sinocard spoke up.

"Do you honestly think you can beat me, when I'm you? I know all of your fighting moves, and even your Persona skills. You can't defeat me, Draconis! Give up already!" Sinocard said as he swung his staff at Draconis who blocked the staff with his own before speaking up.

"So you say, yet I'm in no hurry to give up anytime soon. That being said, is that the best you can do? Let's try this! MALEFOR! Smite him!" Draconis said as he summoned Malefor, who looked at Sinocard before breathing a torrent of energy at him, making Sinocard reel from the impact of the attack as he gritted his teeth and spoke up.

"Not bad, Draconis. I see that you've been training hard over the past few years. Not to mention, that Persona's a new one on you. Too bad for you I've also improved." Sinocard said as he charged a sphere of energy in his palms as he finished speaking, which Draconis' eyes widened under his helmet on seeing. But before Draconis could even begin to brace for the impact, Sinocard fired the sphere, which flew straight on and slammed directly into Draconis, sending him flying into the air before hitting the ground with a grunt as he landed on the arm he'd used to break his fall around four years prior, when he'd been blasted backwards towards a window by an angry Crow, who had been blacked out with anger at the time.

Unbeknownst to Draconis, the sphere hitting him and knocking him back would wind up drawing concerned looks from the spectators, who weren't expecting Sinocard to actually score a good hit on Draconis, who slowly picked himself back up and forced himself to get back up. As Draconis struggled to his feet, he spoke up.

"I felt that one for sure. Not bad, Sinocard. You truly have improved. It would seem as though we're evenly matched in terms of skill level." Draconis said as Sinocard nodded and spoke up.

"Indeed it does. I'd say we're at a stalemate at this point." Sinocard said as Draconis frowned before speaking up.

"True. We've both done quite a bit of damage to each other. Yet neither of us has really managed to gain a significant edge over the other. Interesting." Draconis said as Sinocard nodded and spoke up.

"I concur. Perhaps we should get your friends in the audience to help you? Maybe that will tip the scales a bit?" Sinocard suggested as Draconis spoke up.

"You sure about that? You do realize this will put you at a disadvantage." Draconis said as Sinocard spoke up.

"I don't mind the challenge. Regardless, I would've fought those three after I finished you." Sinocard said as Draconis spoke up.

"Perhaps, but I don't think you'd have been able to defeat Oracle, Pendragon, and Mona even if you did somehow manage to defeat me. That being said, that's up to them if they want to jump in or not. I won't stop them if they want to help, but I respect their wishes if they'd rather not help." Draconis said as Mona spoke up, drawing both Sinocard and Draconis' attention to Mona, Oracle, and Pendragon as he spoke.

"Of course we'll help you out, Draconis! That's what friends, no, what family does, isn't it?" Mona said as he, Oracle, and Pendragon jumped in as Draconis nodded and spoke up.

"Thanks. Let's try and break this guy's down gauge so we can try and hit him with a few All-Out Attacks, and maybe even a Showtime or two for good measure. Sound good?" Draconis asked as Mona, Pendragon, and Oracle nodded, the latter speaking up.

"Of course it does! Let's get this creep! How dare he try to break your will like that?" Oracle said as Draconis spoke up while smiling at Oracle.

"I appreciate your concern, Oracle. But it's okay. I honestly expected that he'd probably try something like that. After all, Maruki created him from the more negative aspects of my personality. And I think he was also built off of the strong negative emotions I was feeling in my heart at the time that Maruki took my energy and blood, specifically when I thought Mona had died. That was probably the most pain I've ever felt in my heart was in that moment." Draconis said, getting a surprised look from Mona in response to his admission as Oracle nodded and the group started attacking Sinocard. After a bit, Sinocard reeled backwards as his down gauge was fully broken. At that point, Draconis spoke up.

"Good, it's time. Everyone, with me! It's time for an ALL-OUT ATTACK!" Draconis said as Pendragon, Mona, and Oracle nodded, rushing forward to attack Sinocard repeatedly before the shot cut to Draconis spinning his staff around before slamming the back end of it into Sinocard's stomach to stagger him, after which he lifted his staff up and spoke up.

"TIME TO BURN!" Draconis said as he expertly spun his staff in a perfect circle and slammed it straight into the ground, causing a plume of fire and lava to shoot upwards and lift Sinocard into the air, damaging him severely before Pendragon spoke up with a frown.

"So, this is the clone that Maruki made of you, then? Seems like it was rather shoddily made, if you ask me. But never mind that. Seeing this reminds me of something. While we were going through the Kyoto Jail, I saw the Triad Special that Mona initiated with Wolf and Flare, as well as the one Oracle drafted myself and Queen into, and seeing those gave me an idea for my own potential Triad Special.

However, it's a bit of a complex idea, and some of the more subtle nuances of this attack would require your assistance, Draconis. And yours as well, Mona. After all, this attack not only requires both of your unique skills, but is a nod to something that you yourself cooked up when we first caught up to the others, Draconis. Sound interesting to the two of you?" Pendragon asked as Sinocard huffed and spoke up.

"HEY! Who're you calling shoddily made, old man? You don't know what you're talking about!" Sinocard said as Oracle glared at him and spoke up.

"I don't care if you are a clone of Draconis! No one talks to Pendragon like that! So shut your disrespectful mouth before I shove my beam staff down your throat and cut that blasphemous tongue of yours out for calling Pendragon an old man!" Oracle snapped as Sinocard smirked and spoke up.

"Feisty, are you? I can see why the other me is so taken with you, now. Not only are you cute, but you've got a fiery personality." Sinocard said as Draconis spoke up.

"HEY! No hitting on my girlfriend, Sinocard! I don't care if you are me, that doesn't mean you have carte blanche to flirt with Oracle!" Draconis said irately before he and Mona exchanged surprised looks as they contemplated Pendragon's request before Draconis eventually nodded and looked at Pendragon as he kept speaking.

"Anyways, let's change the subject before I run you through with my knives. So, you came up with the idea for a Triad Special, Pendragon? I'm intrigued. If Mona has no objections to it, I think we could be persuaded to help you out with it." Draconis said as Mona grinned and spoke up.

"I think I can get behind this. Hopefully this is a good move." Mona said as Pendragon smirked and spoke up.

"Oh, it's a very good move. Just you wait and see. So, shall we?" Pendragon said as Mona and Draconis nodded as the three of them spoke up in unison.

"GO, TRIAD SPECIAL!" Pendragon, Mona, and Draconis said as their Triad Special started! As it started, Pendragon looked at Mona and spoke up.

"Mona, aim your attack at my shield! You too, Draconis!" Pendragon said as Mona and Draconis both got wide-eyed and the latter spoke up.

"Wait, what!? You want us to attack you, Pendragon? Are you serious!?" Draconis said as Mona spoke up.

"That's what it sounded like to me, Draconis. Though Pendragon DID say we were aiming for his shield. I think I get where he's going with this. I'll play along. SHOW YOUR MIGHT, DIEGO!" Mona said as he summoned Diego, who aimed a strong gust of Wind power at Pendragon's shield, where it was absorbed. Draconis' eyes widened at this before he understood what was going on as he spoke up.

"Ahh, I get where this is going. Very well, I'll play along. MALEFOR, FEED YOUR POWER INTO THAT SHIELD!" Draconis said as Malefor nodded, breathing a mighty torrent of mixed Almighty and Fire energy into Pendragon's shield, which now glowed three different colors before starting to flash between the three quickly as Pendragon spoke up.

"Good! And now for the finishing touch! ENLIGHTEN US, KOHRYU!" Pendragon said as he raised his shield up at the same time that Kohryu aimed a potent Psy blast at it, making it glow four different colors and flash four different colors before Pendragon aimed the shield at Sinocard at the same time that he, Mona, and Draconis all spoke up.

"AND NOW TO SHOW YOU THE TRUTH! BEHOLD WHAT IS REFLECTED IN THE MIRROR OF THE ORDAINED!" Pendragon, Mona, and Draconis said as Sinocard looked in the direction of the shield at the same time that a strong burst of energy blasted forth from the shield as all of the absorbed energy was released and redirected towards the unsuspecting Sinocard, slamming into him head-on for massive damage and launching Sinocard backwards into a wall, after which he skidded to his feet and struggled to a knee, ending the Triad Special at the same time that Oracle spoke up.

"WOW, SO PRETTY! OH, AND SO MUCH DAMAGE! Also, don't leave me out, you guys! I wanna do my All-Out Attack too!" Oracle said as the others nodded, once again running forward to attack Sinocard over and over, before it showed Oracle brandishing her beam staff and seemingly taking aim.

"Hmph, time to run you through. Behold my power!" Oracle said as she ran the beam end of her staff through Sinocard's torso, making him grunt as Oracle pulled it back out and spoke up.

"Have a taste of the powers of psycho-kinetic lightning!" Oracle said as she slammed her staff into the ground at the same time that Albus and Al Azif combined powers to cause a bolt of energy to drop down onto the damaged Sinocard, both electrocuting him and dealing severe Psy damage to him, making him groan as he hit the ground once again, landing on his back and struggling to get up as Oracle spoke up while glaring at the downed Sinocard.

"YOU LIKE THAT, YOU FAKER!? AND STAY DOWN WHILE YOU'RE AT IT, YOU POOR MAN'S VERSION OF DRACONIS!" Oracle said sassily, ending her All-Out Attack along with the battle. Afterwards, Sinocard struggled to a knee. Once he was kneeling, Sinocard spoke up.

"Ugh, not bad. You've bested me fair and square, Draconis. Perhaps you've made peace with yourself after all, to some degree. But can you be honest with yourself about how you feel about things? That, I think, is the real question here." Sinocard said as Draconis spoke up.

"I'm being honest with you, aren't I? So since you are me and vice versa, wouldn't that mean I am being honest with myself?" Draconis pointed out as Sinocard nodded and spoke up.

"Fair point. Also, sorry about trying to drag up your resentments towards your mom and older brother. I can tell by your reaction that you consider that a sore spot still." Sinocard said as Draconis spoke up with a frown.

"Honestly? I moreso consider the fact you brought it up a sore spot. I have already accepted that I have a lot to work out still with Mom and Joker. But that's not important right now. What is important is that there's still a job to do, and that takes priority over all else for now." Draconis said as Sinocard nodded and spoke up.

"I see. Very well. I suppose this is the part where you re-assimilate me into you again?" Sinocard said as Draconis smiled and spoke up.

"That is an option, yes. But I also could let you decide if you want to be re-assimilated or not. After all, you are a part of me, so you have just as much of a say in this as I do. Would you rather be left alone, or do you want to be part of me again?" Draconis asked as Sinocard thought about it and spoke up.

"Of course you ask my opinion. That's just like you though, isn't it? Always the goody-two shoes of the two of us. But I suppose I have no further reason to be running around free, do I? Very well, let us become one once more." Sinocard said as Draconis nodded, before extending a hand towards Sinocard, which he took as the latter was absorbed into the former, leaving Draconis standing alone in the middle of the area as he felt something stir inside of him.

At that point, Draconis became conscious of gaining a new Master Art in the form of 'Dyne-dolaon Burst', which allowed him to randomly cast either 'Agidyne', 'Garudyne', or 'Megidolaon' after a level 4 combo. After he accepted this, Draconis looked over at Pendragon, Oracle, and Mona before speaking up.

"Well, that was an event we just lived through, wasn't it? Also, I want the three of you to be honest with me. How much of that conversation between myself and Sinocard did you hear before Sinocard decided to tell me that the three of you were listening in?" Draconis asked as Pendragon spoke up.

"All of it, just about. But don't worry. What was said in this area can stay in this area. No one else has to know." Pendragon said as Draconis smiled and spoke up.

"Thank you. But I probably will eventually open up about this to the others eventually. But it's just as I told Sinocard. I might not look like it, but from time to time, I struggle to find the right words to put my feelings into words effectively. But then again, I think that struggling to find the words to express one's feelings is actually a common trait of most, if not all, men.

In any case, while Sinocard was speaking the truth about me, I believe that our mission is more important for now. I can find time to deal with my personal issues afterwards. That being said though, I appreciate you being willing to keep this to yourself, Pendragon. It means a lot to me." Draconis said as Pendragon smirked and spoke up while patting Draconis comfortingly on the back in a manly fashion.

"No problem, Draconis. After all, if you and Oracle get serious about each other eventually, you'll be as good as my son, so I should try to start having your back now so you can feel like you can rely on me when the time comes." Pendragon said as Draconis nodded and spoke up.

"Good point. Thanks, Da-err, I mean Pendragon." Draconis said as Pendragon smiled and spoke up.

"I agree that we should stick to code names in the Metaverse. But outside of it? I don't mind if you call me 'Dad' occasionally, Draconis." Pendragon said as Draconis nodded and spoke up.

"Fair enough. I should probably get used to it anyways. After all, when the day comes that I make Oracle my wife, I'll be calling you 'Dad' anyways." Draconis said as Oracle spoke up.

"Mwehehe, of course you will. And to be honest? I look forward to the day when you finally ask me to be your wife, Draconis." Oracle said as Mona spoke up.

"Heh, but that won't be for a bit, I'm sure. After all, I seem to recall you have a bet with Crow that Panther and Flare would be the first to get engaged, even though Crow apparently bet on it being Joker and Violet instead. While I question his choice, at the same time, I can see how he'd think they'd make sense. After all, Joker and Violet are practically parents already, if we go by how they treat Lady Seeker." Mona pointed out as Draconis grinned and spoke up while patting Mona on the shoulder fondly, amused by Mona's apt observation of the dynamic between Joker, Violet, and Seeker.

"Too true, Mona. Too true." Draconis said as Oracle spoke up, pleased to see that Draconis seemed to be unaffected by his encounter with Sinocard.

"Well, in any case, since Sinocard is gone, hopefully for good this time, should we take that open portal and keep moving?" Oracle asked as Draconis nodded before the group started moving towards the portal, but not before Mona hung back to speak to Draconis once more.

"Draconis? Just so you know, you don't have to keep things to yourself. Even if you don't want to admit things to the whole group, you can always confide in me. After all, you yourself said you see me as a younger brother. So it only seems fitting that I act the part and try to keep your secrets as best I can. After all, that's what brothers are for, yeah?" Mona said as Draconis turned to look at Mona, slowly smiling as he spoke up, wiping a few unshed tears from his eyes under his helmet while he spoke.

"Mona? Thank you. That means a lot to me. I'll try to keep that in mind. But I suppose we shouldn't keep the others waiting, yeah?" Draconis said as Mona nodded, briefly hugging a surprised Draconis before the two caught up to Oracle and Pendragon, after which the now-quartet of Oracle, Pendragon, Mona, and Draconis headed into the portal to see where it took them next...

(In yet another part of the maze, with Seeker and Violet)

As she slowly got up and looked around, Seeker analyzed the area she was in and spoke up.

"Hmm, it would seem as though I'm currently trapped inside of the maze. But I can't help but feel like I got separated from the others as well? How odd." Seeker said before almost jumping in shock as she felt a hand gently reach out to pat her on the shoulder, slowly turning around to see Violet smiling at her as she spoke up.

"Sorry for scaring you, but I wanted you to realize you're not alone here, Seeker. Sure, we might not see any of the others anywhere nearby, but at least we have each other." Violet said as Seeker nodded, the two looking around to see if there were any paths forward. After seeing there was only one path forward, Seeker spoke up.

"Looks like there's only one way we can go if we're going to keep going." Seeker said as Violet nodded and spoke up.

"Good point, Seeker. I suppose there's no reason to stand around here." Violet said as she and Seeker made to advance, only to gasp as a hedge wall sprang up and blocked the path forward, leaving Violet and Seeker to exchange confused looks before a voice spoke up.

"Why the rush? Go on and stay a while. Or are you in such a hurry that you can't stop and reflect on what you've lost now and again, Sumire? Or would you prefer to be called Violet?" Seeker and Violet heard, the latter's eyes widening in a mix of shock and disbelief as she realized she knew that voice. Eventually, Seeker spoke up.

"Violet? Is something wrong?" Seeker asked as Violet spoke up, acting as if she didn't hear Seeker's question.

"That voice. It couldn't be. Could it? After all, she died a while ago. So how is it she's here now?" Violet said to herself. Seeker frowned at Violet's reaction, but the voice spoke up again before Seeker could even begin to question Violet.

"Aww, what's the matter? I thought you told your friends you were done running from the truth? Or are you still in denial of my demise, little sister? Is that it? Well, too bad. It's time for you to accept that truth head-on." Seeker and Violet heard as a pool of black mist formed and from it rose a female, one that Violet wasn't expecting to see. If not for the fact that this figure had darker red hair than Violet and a beauty mark on one side of her face, Seeker would've sworn she was seeing double, since it looked like there were two Violets standing there. Seeker then looked at Violet and spoke up.

"Violet? What's wrong?" Seeker asked as Violet spoke up.

"Honestly? I'm not sure I believe what I'm seeing right now. If this is real, then that's my deceased elder twin sister standing in front of us." Violet said as Seeker gasped and spoke up, her eyes widening in surprise at Violet's response while she spoke.

"WHAT!? You had a sister, Violet? I know you mentioned losing someone close to you a few times in the past, but I don't think you ever specifically gave any names for who the deceased was." Seeker asked as the figure that resembled Violet spoke up.

"Of course she did. And to answer your question, little one? That 'deceased loved one' she might have told you about is me! I'm her elder twin sister, Kasumi. You wouldn't have heard much about me aside from the fact that I died, since I died a few years ago saving poor little crybaby Sumire from being hit by a car. After all, if she hadn't ran out into traffic that day, I wouldn't have had to push her out of the way and get struck head-on by an oncoming vehicle! So if you think about it, it's all her fault I'm dead!" The figure that seemed to be Violet's sister Kasumi said dryly as Violet spoke up.

"ENOUGH! It is true that my sister died saving me from an oncoming car, but as far as I could tell, she never harbored any sort of resentment towards me over it. So I'm not so sure that you're actually Kasumi." Violet said as the figure that resembled Kasumi spoke up.

"You deny it? How about I show you, then? COME, PERSONA!" The figure that resembled Violet said as she summoned a being that Violet instantly recognized, despite the odd red aura flaring from it that was almost indistinguishable from the amount of red in the being's dress and tights. Seeker frowned and spoke up.

"What sort of a Persona is that? I've never seen one like it before?" Seeker asked as the figure that resembled Kasumi spoke up.

"It's a Persona that only I, and Sumire over there, have the ability to use! Say hello to Vanadis!" The figure that resembled Kasumi said as she brandished a rapier and took a battle-ready stance.

"Ah, but I see that Sumire isn't ready to accept the truth still. I guess I'll have to beat some acceptance into her as I defeat you two. Or is Sumire too much of a scared little crybaby to face me?" The figure that resembled Kasumi said as Violet's eye twitched and she spoke up.

"What did you just call me!?" Violet asked as the figure that resembled Kasumi spoke up.

"You heard me. You're a scared little crybaby if you can't accept that I'm here right now. Now stop crying and face me!" The figure that resembled Kasumi said as Seeker frowned and spoke up.

"Hey, that's not nice! Whether you're Violet's sister or not, there's no excuse for being rude like that. Tell her you're sorry." Seeker said as the figure that resembled Kasumi scoffed, before backhanding Seeker across the face, knocking her into a hedge wall, where she grunted and hit the ground while Violet spoke up.

"SEEKER! Are you all right!?" Violet said, racing to Seeker's side as she spoke up with a grunt while slowly getting to her feet, wincing as she rubbed her face, feeling a slight bruise where the figure that resembled Kasumi had backhanded her.

"I'm fine. That was more humbling than anything. But I say we should battle her. If nothing else, I owe her some payback for hitting me just now! Not to mention the fact she's causing you pain, Violet! I can accept pain when it's visited upon myself, but I refuse to let anyone hurt you!" Seeker said as she assumed a battle-ready stance as Violet sighed and spoke up while reluctantly assuming her own battle-ready stance.

"I suppose I don't have a choice, do I? Very well. I don't know who you are, but if you want a battle so bad? Bring it on!" Violet said as she brandished her own rapier imposingly as a fight began! As the fight began, the being that resembled Kasumi spoke up.

"Looks like you've got some fight in you after all, Sumire. That's good. Now let's see what you've got!" The figure that resembled Kasumi said as she swung her rapier at Violet, who parried it with her own rapier, leading to a clash of blades between Violet and the being that resembled Kasumi. As they clashed blades, Seeker watched the two, eagerly cheering Violet on. After a bit, Violet was pushed back by the figure that resembled Kasumi, who spoke up.

"Not bad. But you've still got a ways to go to be better than me. But don't take my word for it. VANADIS! SHOW THEM WHAT I MEAN!" The being that resembled Kasumi said as she called for Vanadis, who nodded and did a twirl, causing a rain of swords to cascade down on Violet and Seeker, the former shielding the latter from the attack with her body, taking a lot of damage for her efforts as Seeker spoke up in shock.

"VIOLET! Hang in there! I'll heal you! Pithos, heal my m-err, I mean, heal Violet!" Seeker said, making the being that resembled Kasumi blink in shock at Seeker almost calling Violet 'Mom' while Pithos appeared and started tending Violet's injuries as Seeker brandished her yo-yo.

"You wanna try and hurt those I care about, do you? Try your skills on me!" Seeker said as the being that resembled Kasumi laughed and spoke up.

"Me? Fight you? Don't be silly, short-stuff. It's not worth my time to fight you. My business is with my sister over there." The being that resembled Kasumi said as she made to advance towards Violet, only to be blasted backwards by a blast of Bless energy as Seeker spoke up.

"Short-stuff!? How dare you brush me off like that? That's so rude!" Seeker said, swinging her yo-yos towards the being that resembled Kasumi, managing to wrap them around her ankles and trip her up, bringing her to the ground. The being that resembled Kasumi then spoke up.

"How dare you!? Are you TRYING to piss me off, you little brat?" The being that resembled Kasumi said as Seeker glared at her and stood her ground before a groan drew their attention to Violet, who struggled to her feet and spoke up even as a familiar light emanated from her while she spoke.

"ENOUGH! I can handle you trying to kill me, since I probably deserve it for being the reason Kasumi died several years ago. But I will NOT stand by and let you hurt someone who I love like they're my daughter, you distorted bitch! Time to put you in your place! IT'S SHOWTIME!" Violet said as her Showtime started! Violet then glared at the being that resembled Kasumi defiantly as she called Ella to her and brandished her rapier as she spoke up.

"Shall we, Ella?" Violet said as Ella nodded, tossing Violet into the air as she swung her rapier in a graceful arc, as if it were a ribbon in her hands. As she spun around to drill downwards, rapier extended outwards, she smirked as she crashed hard into the being that resembled Kasumi, pushing her backwards and eventually slamming her into the ground in an explosion of Bless power as Violet spoke up once more.

"Finish it, Ella! DIVINE JUDGMENT!" Violet called as Ella extended her sword and swung it downwards in a slow arc, bringing down on the being that resembled Kasumi, along with Vanadis, slamming the latter into the ground, where she laid in a crater, and forcing the former to one knee as Violet posed cutely and spoke up.

"YOU'VE JUST BEEN JUDGED! AND THE CROWD GOES WILD!" Violet said as the sounds of a simulated crowd cheering could be heard, augmented by actual cheers from Seeker for effect as Violet's Showtime ended. The being that resembled Kasumi glared at Violet as she spoke up.

"Impressive! But I'm far from being beaten! Maybe I should use that little whiny brat you're so close to as a meat shield and see how far you're willing to go to win?" The being that resembled Kasumi said as Violet gasped and recoiled as if struck by the threat to Seeker before Seeker glared at the being that resembled Kasumi and spoke up.

"I'm sorry, but WHAT!? How dare you keep calling me a brat? Time to finish you off! SHOWTIME!" Seeker said as she called Pithos to her and spoke up.

"Pithos, charge up all weapons!" Seeker said as Pithos did as asked, taking aim at the being that resembled Kasumi before Seeker spoke up.

"NOW! Fire all weapons at FULL POWER!" Seeker said as Pithos nodded and fired its weapons, dealing considerable damage to the being that resembled Kasumi, making her actually scream as she was blasted backwards onto her back, making Seeker gasp as she spoke up while the being that resembled Kasumi struggled to her feet.

"Oh! I think I overdid that move, but either way I bet that hurt." Seeker said as her Showtime ended, along with the battle. After the battle, the being that resembled Kasumi spoke up with a frown.

"NO! How could I lose to a wannabe red-headed stepchild and my inferior younger sister?" The being that resembled Kasumi said as Violet spoke up, surprising Seeker with the sight of tears in her eyes as she spoke.

"ENOUGH! You say you're Kasumi, but the Kasumi I know would never have insulted her family or friends. The Kasumi I know would've had only kind words to say for the most part to those she met. The fact that you so openly insulted both myself and Seeker just now confirms what I suspected all along. You're not Kasumi! You're just a twisted, corrupted echo of her! Now begone from my sight!" Violet said as the being that resembled Kasumi blinked before smiling as she spoke up.

"What do you know? You actually stood up for yourself, Sumire. I'm impressed. Very well, you did win fair and square. I'll leave you now. Farewell." The being that resembled Kasumi said before laying back and dissolving into black mist, leaving Seeker and Violet alone with each other before another, much kinder, voice was heard.

"It's about time you finally confronted your past head on, Sumire! I was starting to think you were going to run from it forever, even if you confronted part of it four years ago when you stopped pretending to be me. I'm proud of you for managing to stand on your own two feet, by the way." Seeker and Violet heard, both tensing for another fight before Violet gasped at the sight of the new being as this girl had on a shimmery silver and white sparkling dress, a pair of silver stiletto heels, and a beauty mark on one side of her face, making it easy to tell this girl apart from Violet, who gasped and spoke up in shock, her eyes watering as she spoke.

"N-no way! Kasumi!? Is it really you this time?" Violet asked as Kasumi nodded and spoke up while smiling kindly at Violet.

"Yes, sister. It's me. I'm sorry for what that distorted echo of me put you and the little one following you through. But I'm proud that you were able to stand up to it and defeat it. Well done, you two." Kasumi said as Seeker tilted her head to the side in confusion and spoke up while looking at Violet.

"Umm, do you know this girl, Violet? I know we just saw a distorted cognition that claimed to be your sister, but could this really be that same person that you told me about?" Seeker asked as Violet smiled and spoke up.

"Yes, Seeker. I know this girl rather well, in fact. Do you remember the time I told you about how I had a twin sister who gave her life to save mine a few years ago, which left me in a bit of a bad space mentally for a while afterwards?" Violet asked as Seeker nodded and spoke up.

"Well, this is my older twin sister. Seeker, say hi to your Aunt Kasumi." Violet said, smirking at the identical looks of shock on both Seeker and Kasumi's faces as they spoke up in unison.

"AUNT!?/AUNT!?" Seeker and Kasumi both yelped at the same time, before the latter of the two frowned at Violet and spoke up.

"How is she my niece, Sumire? She looks like she's at least 10 or so, probably around 12 if I had to venture a guess. And I know for a fact that you didn't have a kid when I was alive, so there's no way you had a kid that fast." Kasumi said as Violet blushed in embarrassment and spoke up.

"N-No, she's not ACTUALLY my daughter. She's an AI who took the form of a little girl that Joker and I both got rather attached to. So much so that we've both come to think of her as a daughter of sorts. Obviously, Seeker's the wrong age for me to have given birth to her." Violet said as Seeker tilted her head to the side and spoke up.

"Given birth to?" Seeker asked as Kasumi spoke up with a giggle after noticing the adorably confused expression on Seeker's face.

"Oops, looks like it's time for someone to give their 'daughter' the Talk. Hee hee." Kasumi said as Violet huffed and spoke up.

"Not quite yet, Kasumi. She's still only like 12 or so. She's not quite old enough for it yet." Violet insisted as Kasumi scoffed and spoke up.

"Not old enough? Nonsense! You and I were both around Seeker's age when our parents gave us the talk, you know. So she's plenty old enough for it." Kasumi said as Violet spoke up.

"Do you want to give it to her, then? You might do a better job at it than me." Violet said as Kasumi smirked and spoke up.

"Yeah, but I might also be more graphic in my descriptions as well. You know how thorough I am in explaining things." Kasumi said as Violet winced and spoke up.

"That is true. You are rather thorough in your explanations. I still remember the time you tried to explain to me what it was like to kiss a girl. That was both one of the most embarrassing and also one of the most horrifying moments of my life. Never mind the fact that I half-expected you to try and kiss me at some point as a demonstration!" Violet said, her cheeks pinking in a mix of embarrassment and mortification at her own recollection. Kasumi giggled and spoke up.

"Nah, I wouldn't do that to you, Sumire. We are sisters, after all. I might not have had a lot of standards when it comes to dating, but one line I did draw was at the idea of incest." Kasumi said as Violet breathed a sigh of relief at that. Kasumi then giggled and smiled slyly as she kept speaking.

"But then again, if it meant the chance of sharing that boyfriend of yours, I might have been persuaded to make an exception to that rule." Kasumi said as Violet's eyes widened behind her mask before Seeker spoke up in confusion.

"Incest? Sharing a boyfriend? What are those?" Seeker asked as Kasumi spoke up.

"Oops, I'm sorry. I forgot you were here for a moment, Seeker. As my apology, let me answer your questions. Incest is a term used for when two family members have feelings for one another. For example, let's say that Kusa had chosen to take an interest in Sumire instead of Futaba. Because he and Sumire see each other as brother and sister, that'd be the same thing as incest. Or as another example, let's say that I had decided to try and seduce Sumire myself for fun. That would also be incest. But incest also applies to other things as well. Just to name a few, there's cousins, siblings, relatives, and even parent-child, though that last one is thankfully very rare. Those are all forms of incestuous pairings.

And while there's nothing inherently wrong with those sorts of pairings, more often than not they lead to complications if the two involved parties in the pairing were to have a child together. So it's usually not a good idea to partake of that. As far as sharing a boyfriend goes, that's exactly as it sounds. It's when two or more girls have feelings for the same man, and decide to not only have all of them date him, but also date each other too. Although, now that I think about it, would that be more akin to a harem than sharing a boyfriend? Pretty sure they're the same thing." Kasumi said as Seeker's face went bright red in embarrassment as she spoke up.

"I see. Dare I ask what you and Violet meant before by 'the talk'?" Seeker asked as Kasumi smiled widely and spoke up.

"We were referring to a talk that all mothers give their daughters when they're around your age. But it's a bit of an embarrassing one, so bear with me. We might be here a while, so get comfortable." Kasumi said as Seeker sat down to listen in, Violet doing the same out of a morbid curiosity at how well Kasumi would do giving the talk to Seeker. Kasumi then proceeded to spend quite a while laying out the birds and the bees for Seeker in rather explicit detail, after which Seeker was sure her face was permanently red from all the embarrassed/mortified blushing she was currently doing, refusing to look at either Violet or Kasumi at that moment, the former of whom giggled and spoke up.

"Hee hee, your face is so precious right now, Seeker. It reminds me of how I looked after Mom finished giving Kasumi and I that same talk. Though I don't think she went into nearly the amount of detail that Kasumi did." Violet said, frowning at Kasumi, who could only shrug in her own defense as she spoke up.

"Eh, maybe you're right, Sumire. Maybe our mother didn't go into that much detail when she gave us that talk. But hey, if I'm gonna do it, you'd better believe I'm doing it right, Sumire. Besides, this is for my 'niece', so of course I'm going to go into detail. I threw in the girl/girl version as well to cover the off chance Seeker might end up being bisexual and/or lesbian like I was. I might have traumatized her with that part a bit, though." Kasumi said as Seeker pouted and spoke up, her face slightly pink in embarrassment from what she'd just been told by Kasumi.

"You really did, Aunt Kasumi. Why would I need to know all that stuff about how to pleasure a woman's private parts? Much less the best ways to stimulate a woman? I can see there being some merit in knowing how to please a man, but a woman? I don't think I swing that way. Besides, I only really have eyes for one person, and they're very much a man as far as I can tell." Seeker said, before blushing profusely as she realized what she'd just said and pulling her hood over her face to hide how embarrassed she was. Violet and Kasumi both giggled at how adorable Seeker looked hiding her face as the former spoke up.

"I have to admit, Kasumi. For all that I was worried that you might end up traumatizing poor Seeker with that explanation, you seem to have done a great job." Violet said as Kasumi smirked and spoke up.

"Of course I did. I always make sure to do a good job. But I think that's enough stroking of my ego for now. I think there're more important things to discuss here. For example, unless I missed my mark in interpreting what she just said correctly, I think my little 'niece' might have herself a genuine crush already. I wonder who the lucky person is?" Kasumi asked as Violet spoke up with a smile.

"If I'm right, it'll be her friend Mona. Not sure how they'd work as a couple, though. After all, even if Mona is a human, Seeker's still an AI who lives in my phone. So they'd really only be able to have physical contact here in the Metaverse. I can't imagine that'd be easy for either one of them to deal with if they did decide to be in a relatioinship together. Oh, and I suppose I should mention the part where Mona used to be a cat too, since I'm dropping bombshells on you right now." Violet said as Kasumi's jaw dropped and she spoke up in shock.

"Wait, WHAAAAAAT!? Seeker's an AI and her crush used to be a cat!? Are you serious? Also, only you could see an AI as a daughter and have her fall in love with a cat-boy. Nice to see your luck's as interesting as ever, Sumire. Hee hee." Kasumi said as Seeker spoke up.

"To be fair, I liked Mona more after he became a human. I didn't really have that strong of feelings for him while he was a cat." Seeker said shyly as Kasumi spoke up.

"That's good, sweetie. At least I know you don't have any sort of weird fetishes." Kasumi said as Violet spoke up with a smile.

"As much as I enjoy having this time with you, I get the feeling you're working on limited time, Kasumi." Violet said as Kasumi nodded and spoke up.

"Very perceptive. I was given this chance to come speak to you and make sure you're holding up okay. But given how happy you and Seeker seem to be, I think you're doing fine. But maybe I have that sexy boyfriend of yours to thank for that. Joker, was it? He's definitely a real catch. Y'know, had I not died, and had you not gotten him first, I might have been tempted to make a pass at him myself. After all, he seems so kind, sensitive, and caring. There may or may not also be the part where he and his little brother are surprisingly lively at parties.

I still recall the time when I was younger that these two guys, one of whom had shorter black hair, and the other one had dark brown hair that he had pulled into a ponytail, were teasing each other because the one was struggling with a jigsaw puzzle that no one could solve. Surprisingly, the older of the two actually gave it an honest attempt, and got pretty far into it before asking the younger of the two for help.

To the shock of everyone present, the younger of the two solved that puzzle easily. Not long after, a piece broke off of the puzzle and the younger of the two playfully tossed it into my lap. After the older of the two came and got it, I heard the younger of the two joking about how the older of the two had 'gotten a piece of me'.

I recall that half the people present laughed at that like it was some sort of comedy gold. I personally was amused but embarrassed, since the older of the two was legitimately handsome. I think he got embarrassed by how the younger of the two had teased him, since he ran off and I didn't see him afterwards. Mind, that was about a week or so before I had my first kiss with a girl." Kasumi said as Violet laughed and spoke up.

"Yep, that definitely sounds like Joker and Draconis, for sure. But in all seriousness? I'm sorry things didn't work out for you and Joker. I think he was actually quite into you at the time, even if he didn't say so. But I'm pretty sure Draconis embarrassed him with his not so helpful bit of playful teasing too much for him to have the courage to confess to you. Probably just as well, though. After all, if he had confessed to you and you'd reciprocated, who's to say he and I would've ever gotten together?

And to be honest, Joker is a large part of the reason I was able to finally overcome the pain of losing you, Kasumi. He was able to help me see that there are people who accept me just the way I am. It was also him that helped snap me out of the actualization that I was you and trying to live as you. You should have seen how livid he got with Doctor Maruki for that afterwards. It was both shocking, yet oddly flattering and comforting that he cared enough for me to stand up to Doctor Maruki the way he did. He got so mad, he even cussed out Doctor Maruki. It was amazing." Violet said, a smile on her face as Kasumi spoke up with a wink.

"Hmm. Looks to me like things worked out for the best then. I feel like you and Joker are perfect for each other. And if it means you two are incredible parents to Seeker there, all the better." Kasumi said as Seeker spoke up.

"Um, my real name isn't Seeker. That's just a code name we came up with me for when we go into the Metaverse. My real name is Sophia, and I was given the directive to become humanity's companion. Also, Mona's real name is Morgana." Seeker said honestly as Kasumi smiled and gently leaned down to hug Seeker as she spoke up.

"I see. That's such a pretty name, Sophia. As for Mona's real name being Morgana? Isn't that kind of a slightly feminine name for a guy to have? Not judging at all, just stating my opinion. And for what it's worth? I'm sorry for whatever that other me said or did to try and hurt you and Sumire, Sophia. None of that is how I actually feel at all. If anything, I'm proud to have you as a psuedo-niece. Hopefully Joker and Violet don't get complacent and sit on having you be their only child. I feel like they'd benefit if they settled down and had a couple of kids of their own as well.

Heck, who knows? Maybe you'll end up making a really good older sister in your own right, Sophia. And take it from me, as someone who actually has experience as an older sister. Younger siblings can be a pain at times, but if you become close to them like how Sumire and I were close to one another, they can end up being a really unlikely friend and/or source of comfort to you. But at the same time, you might find yourself surprised how protective you end up being of said younger sibling if you get close enough to them. But I suppose I'll leave that up to Sumire if she ever decides to spread her legs and let Joker have his way with her often enough to give you a little pseudo-brother or sister." Kasumi said teasingly as a red-faced Violet spoke up, making Kasumi giggle at the embarrassed look on Violet's face as she spoke.

"KASUMI! Don't be saying things like that to Seeker! She's way too young to understand being an older sibling! Besides, Mom and Dad would probably ground me for life and then strangle Joker for good measure if we got too serious too fast. You know how protective they are of me, especially after you died." Violet said as Kasumi spoke up.

"Yeah, I know. Doesn't mean I can't still tease you about it, though. After all, that's my right as the older sister! Granted, I did lose out on a lot of my dreams when I died, but I don't regret it for a second. I'd do it again in a heartbeat if it'd keep you or even Sophia safe, Sumire. I know it's hard, but you have to accept that I'm gone, and that you have to keep Mom and Dad upright and strong. I know you've all come a long way in making peace with my death, but I think you all still grieve for it on occasion. But I want you to try and be happy while you can too." Kasumi said as Violet nodded, wrapping her sister's spirit in a hug as she spoke up.

"Of course I'm going to try and be happy, Kasumi. After all, would I be in a relationship with Joker if I wasn't? Also, you know we always miss you. Myself, Mom, and Dad. But I promise you we're doing our best to stay strong and keep living our lives in a way that would make you proud. But thank you for coming to see me. I'm happy to have this time with you." Violet said as Kasumi nodded, gently patting Violet on the back comfortingly as she spoke up.

"You're welcome. I was glad to catch up with you and meet my little niece over there. Also, if you and Joker ever do consider getting married? Consider my blessings given for your union. I approve of him as your boyfriend, Sumire. I hope you two are happy together for a good long time." Kasumi said as her body started flickering in and out of visibility, making Violet gasp as she spoke up.

"W-Wait, does that mean-?" Violet asked as Kasumi nodded and spoke up to answer Violet's unspoken question.

"Yes, it does. Unfortunately, as much as I'd love to keep chatting with the two of you like this, my time is just about up. But don't cry for me, Sumire. I want you to keep your head held high and live your best life for me. Oh, and don't worry about needing to fulfill my dream for me. If you decide to do it, I wish you all the best. But if you end up unable to, I understand. I just want you to be happy, sister. Same to you, Sophia. I want you both to live long, happy lives. But alas, I think it's time for me to leave. It was fun hanging out, but I think this is farewell." Kasumi said as Seeker spoke up.

"I see. Thank you for saving Mom, Aunt Kasumi. I'm sorry it cost you your life to do so, but I'm happy you loved Mom enough to give your life to save hers." Seeker said as Kasumi smiled and hugged Seeker once more as she spoke up.

"You're a sweet kid, Sophia. You're also very welcome. Look after Sumire for me, okay? I get the feeling she's going to need it after this." Kasumi said as Seeker spoke up.

"Of course. Leave it to me, Aunt Kasumi." Seeker said as Kasumi nodded approvingly before smiling at both Seeker and Violet one last time before fading away in a flash of white light before their eyes. After she was gone, Violet sighed and spoke up.

"She's gone again, isn't she? Kasumi..." Violet said, looking ready to cry. Seeker walked over and hugged Violet as she spoke up.

"Cheer up, Mom. You heard what Aunt Kasumi said. You can't keep crying for her. She wants you to stay strong and be cheerful." Seeker said kindly as Violet smiled and spoke up while gently patting Seeker on the head as she felt something stir inside of her, manifesting itself as a new Master Art for Violet in the form of 'Masquerade'.

"You're right, Seeker. Thank you. I can't go to pieces like this right now. We have to keep going. But you'd better be ready, since you and I are having a serious discussion later on about you calling me 'Mom' like that around Kasumi." Violet said as Seeker nodded before the two headed through the active portal towards another part of the maze...

(Finally, while the others were facing their obstacles, near the center of the maze, with Joker and Crow)

As he slowly sat up and cricked his neck a bit, Joker frowned at the amount of hedges visible to him. He then spoke up.

"Well, that was a painful landing. Dammit, did we get sucked into a deep part of that maze?" Joker said as Crow spoke up from nearby while he walked over to Joker.

"If we did, it's a safe bet we got separated from the others in the process, Joker. But at least whatever drew us in was nice enough to spit us out fairly close to the center of the maze." Crow said as Joker nodded and spoke up.

"Good point, Crow. Well, I think I see our goal nearby. Maybe we should head towards it?" Joker suggested calmly as Crow nodded his agreement. As the two made to keep moving, a voice from nearby stopped them when it spoke up.

"Why the rush, Joker? Surely you're not in that big of a hurry that you can't spare some time for an old 'friend'?" Joker and Crow heard, both turning in time to see a smirking male walk out of a hedge, a slight swagger in his steps as he walked. Once he got a good look at the approaching figure, Joker frowned as he saw the attire that the figure had on and spoke up in confusion while looking at Crow.

"Crow? Is that the Black Mask approaching us? And if so, why is he wearing your 'Prince' outfit that you had on when you first joined the team?" Joker asked as Crow huffed and spoke up.

"YES, that's the Black Mask. But to be fair, Draconis had nearly the same reaction you did when we first saw the Monarch of this Jail. And to answer your question about why he has my 'Prince' suit on? If I'm going to be perfectly honest with you, Joker? I don't think he ever gave me a straight answer to that question. All he gave to myself, Draconis, and Pendragon in terms of an explanation was that since I was using the 'Dark' outfit, that he would use the 'Prince' outfit instead." Crow said as Joker nodded his understanding before Crow frowned at the obstacle he and Joker had been given, or the Black Mask, as he spoke up once Black Mask reached Joker and Crow.

"Really? Out of all the obstacles, Joker and I got stuck with YOU!? On the other hand, this could be a valuable chance to confirm if you are the Monarch of this Jail or not. Shall we fight this out, Black Mask?" Crow asked as Black Mask smirked and spoke up.

"Patience, me. We'll have it out soon enough. For now, let's just talk this out if we can. After all, I know we'd rather not have to resort to violence if we can, right?" Black Mask said as Joker spoke up.

"Why are you talking like you and Crow are one in the same, Black Mask? Clearly, you're only part of him! And a part that has no business existing, no less! Why are you the Monarch of this Jail, anyways?" Joker asked as Black Mask smirked and spoke up.

"Joker, Joker, Joker. Why would I tell you that now? That would ruin the surprise. Besides, why rush things? After all, you're so close to the end now. Once you defeat me, all that's left is to head behind me to turn off the maze and open up your path to the second Prison Keep. But I don't see any reason to rush that, especially when the others are surely having 'fun' with their respective obstacles inside this maze. Some of them more than others, I'd wager. But I think we can all agree they'll pull through on their own." Black Mask said as Crow spoke up.

"Perhaps, but how many of them are you going to end up emotionally scarring with these obstacles in the process?" Crow asked dryly as Joker nodded before he and Crow both winced as they heard a very distinct voice shout out 'ENOUGH ALREADY!', making Joker speak up.

"Pretty sure that was Draconis' voice just now. Wonder what his obstacle was?" Joker deadpanned as Crow spoke up.

"I think we both have a good guess of what it was, Joker. If I'm right, we just saw him defeat it during the Kyoto Jail." Crow said as Joker spoke up.

"You mean-?" Joker asked as Crow nodded and spoke up.

"Yep. I think Draconis is facing that crazy dark clone of his that Maruki made. And if he can take on his look-alike, then so can I. Are you ready to do this, Black Mask?" Crow said as Black Mask smirked and spoke up in a voice that seemed to positively drip euphoria and ecstasy.

"Good! So much glorious killer instinct coming from you, Crow. Maybe you haven't completely gone soft after all?" Black Mask said as Joker spoke up.

"Shut up! Time to force some answers out of you!" Joker said as he brandished his knife threateningly, prompting Crow to smirk as he pulled his sawblade, the two taking battle-ready stances as Black Mask spoke up.

"Ahh, excellent. You're both ready for this. Let us do this, then. Time to fight! Give me all you've got!" Black Mask said as he brandished his beam sword and charged at Joker and Crow, starting a fight! As the fight started, Black Mask spoke up.

"AHAHAHAHA! Ready for this, gentlemen? It's time for us to push each other to our limits!" Black Mask said as Crow spoke up.

"Are YOU ready to face the two of US, Black Mask? I think that's the real question to be asked." Crow said as Joker spoke up.

"Crow's right! Besides, I seriously doubt you're going to go all-out on us here and now. That would cheapen the idea of a Monarch fight if you did." Joker said as Black Mask spoke up.

"Perhaps, but whoever said I was going all-out? After all, have I not always said that going all-out against a lesser person is a bit gauche?" Black Mask said as Crow spoke up with a frown.

"NO! I was the one that said that to Joker, not you." Crow said as he slashed at Black Mask, who easily sidestepped the attack, cackling maniacally as he did so before he spoke up.

"Is that really the best you, or should I say we, can do, Crow? Pathetic! And here I thought you used to be one of the most feared and notorious assassins in all of the Metaverse." Black Mask taunted Crow, who spoke up.

"Maybe while I was influenced by you, perhaps. But I've changed my ways, and only strive to fight for what's right, and maybe the occasional bit of chaos here and there. But mostly for justice." Crow said as Joker shook his head and spoke up.

"Oh, Crow. Are we ever going to break that edgy streak of yours?" Joker asked as Crow spoke up.

"Probably not. But then, I don't see you trying to curb Draconis' edgy ways." Crow wisely pointed out. Joker shrugged and spoke up.

"Can you see us curbing anything about Draconis, though? We all know he has one of the strongest wills of all of us." Joker said wisely as Crow spoke up.

"Good point. Anyways, time to log some damage on this fool. IT'S SHOWTIME!" Crow said as he started his Showtime. As he charged up his Showtime, he spoke up.

"TO ME, HEREWARD!" Crow said as he summoned Hereward before glaring at Black Mask as he kept speaking.

"You fool! You actually dared to challenge ME!? Time to reap the consequences of your foolish decision, Black Mask! AHAHAHA!" Crow said as Hereward started firing arrows non-stop at the confused Black Mask, eventually charging up a big arrow as Crow spoke up.

"Ready, Hereward? Take aim and...NOW! FIRE!" Crow said as Hereward complied, launching the massive arrow at a horrified Black Mask at the same time that Crow spoke up.

"You fool! You are little more than an overgrown thorn in my side! I'LL BREAK YOU UTTERLY! BEGONE FROM MY SIGHT! FIRE AT WILL, HEREWARD!" Crow said as Hereward launched the arrow, which slammed into the ground in front of Black Mask, causing a massive explosion of mixed Curse and Almighty energy, throwing Black Mask through the air and causing him to slam down hard on his back with a grunt as a smug Crow spoke up, his arms crossed menacingly over his chest while he spoke.

"THE TRUTH HAS BEEN DECIDED! NEXT TIME, DON'T CROSS ME IF YOU WANT TO LIVE!' Crow said smugly while crossing his arms to end his Showtime as Joker spoke up.

"Don't leave me out, Crow! It's my turn to do a Showtime." Joker said eagerly as Crow spoke up.

"Oh? Hmm, now that I think about it some more, have we ever seen you do your Showtime, Joker? I don't think we have, so by all means, Joker. Go for it." Crow said as Joker nodded and spoke up.

"Right, then. Here goes. IT'S SHOWTIME!" Joker said as did a backflip to create a bit of distance between him and Black Mask before he called out Raoul and pointed at Black Mask while speaking up confidently.

"RAOUL! HERE!" Joker said as he thrust a hand out towards Black Mask, at which point Raoul charged up a powerful burst of Curse energy, slamming it down on top of Black Mask, who could only groan in pain from the point-blank attack as Joker's Showtime ended. Black Mask then struggled to his feet and spoke up, making it clear he was in pain.

"Argh. Damn you! I wasn't expecting the two of you to put up such a fight. It seems I have no choice but to retreat for now. But rest assured, we'll meet again once you've cleared the remaining two Prison Keeps and overcome my Trauma Cell. After all, how else are you going to finish this Jail?" Black Mask said before glaring at Joker and Crow as he opened up a portal and stepped into it in order to escape, ending the battle. As a result of beating the Black Mask, Joker and Crow felt something awaken in each of them as they both awakened to new Master Arts in the form of 'Phantom Show' for Joker and 'Megidolaon' for Crow. Afterwards, Crow spoke up.

"That was anti-climactic. Looks like it was just as you thought, Joker. He didn't want to go all-out on us. Granted, he was wrong to say he said that line to you. I was the one who said it was gauche to go all-out on a junior." Crow said as Joker spoke up.

"Fair enough. But what do you say we finish off this maze finally, Crow?" Joker asked as Crow nodded and spoke up.

"I agree." Crow said as he and Joker headed into the center of the maze, where Joker saw what looked to be a partially-buried tower and a pair of what he guessed were weight-sensitive pressure pads. Joker spoke up.

"Hmm, this is what's in the center of the maze!? I wonder..." Joker said as he walked over and put his feet on the pressure pads, causing the walls of the maze to relax and a rumbling sound to follow as the partly-buried tower slowly rose up out of the ground, eventually revealing itself to be the second Prison Keep. After the rumbling was finished, Crow spoke up.

"I see. So those pressure pads were there to lower the maze walls and open the path to the Prison Keep. Genius idea by the Monarch, I suppose. I guess for now, we wait for the others to catch up before we keep exploring?" Crow said as Joker nodded and the two got comfortable to wait.

After a few minutes, they saw the first of the others arrive, in the forms of Seeker and Violet, the latter of which rushed over to hug Joker happily on seeing him, while Seeker just went to stand with Crow and smiled as she watched Violet throw herself at Joker, who smiled and kissed her eagerly. After a few moments, the two stopped kissing and came up for air before blushing in embarrassment as they gave Crow and Seeker apologetic looks and stood with Crow and Seeker while waiting for the next few members of the group to arrive.

A short time later, four more figures walked into view, revealing themselves to be Mona, Draconis, Pendragon, and Oracle. Seeker smiled and ran up to hug Mona eagerly on seeing him, making Mona smile as he returned the hug while gently patting Seeker on the shoulder comfortingly, happy to see her. After the four arrivals got comfortable with the others to wait, they saw another quartet of figures walk up, revealing themselves to be Queen, Panther, Flare, and Skull, who nodded to the others and waited in line with them. After a little longer, the last four members walked up, those being Fox, Wolf, Seraphim, and Noir, the latter of which walked over to eagerly hug Crow as the group enjoyed being reunited. After a bit, Joker spoke up.

"Heh. Looks like we're the first ones to conquer the 'Labyrinth of Memories'. Not sure why it was called that, other than the whole being a maze schtick, but I suppose it is what it is there?" Joker said as Draconis spoke up.

"That seems accurate. Though I think it might also be called that due to the fact that most of us likely found ourselves faced with foes from our past inside the maze. For example, I had to face Sinocard once again." Draconis said as Mona followed up.

"I had to fight some sort of weird shadowy clone of my previous form." Mona said as Fox spoke up.

"I ended up having a rematch with Sen-err, I mean with Madarame's Shadow." Fox added as Panther spoke up.

"Skull, Flare, and myself had to deal with the return of Kamoshida's Shadow." Panther added, getting nods from Skull and Flare as Wolf spoke up.

"I had to fight a cognitive recreation of Aoi." Wolf admitted as Queen spoke up.

"I had to face off against Sis' Shadow." Queen said as Noir spoke up.

"I had to face off with that robotic version of Sugimura." Noir said as Seraphim spoke up.

"I had to deal with Big Bro's Shadow." Seraphim said as Pendragon spoke up.

"Oracle and I had to deal with a Shadow of the scumbag who calls himself Oracle's uncle." Pendragon said, getting a nod of agreement from Oracle as Violet spoke up.

"Seeker and I may have had to fight off a corrupted cognitive recreation of Kasumi." Violet said as Seeker nodded while Crow spoke up.

"And last but not least, Joker and I had to drive off the Monarch of this Jail. Fortunately, it was easy to scare him off with our Showtimes." Crow said sagely as Joker nodded before speaking up.

"Crow is right. But never mind that. According to the notifications my phone got in here, some of you awakened to new powers in that maze." Joker said, giving knowing looks to Skull, Panther, Fox, and Queen in turn. Panther spoke up.

"Yeah. When we beat Kamoshida's Shadow, Seiten Taisei and Hecate turned into William and Celestine." Panther said as Queen spoke up.

"Anat became Agnes after I overcame Sis' Shadow." Queen added as Fox finished up.

"And after I bested Madarame's Shadow, Kamu Susano-o turned himself into Gorokichi." Fox said as Joker nodded and spoke up.

"Impressive. I think that's all 11 of the original group of Phantom Thieves now at Tier 3 Personas at last." Joker said as Oracle spoke up.

"Good point. Although to be honest, I feel bad for Pendragon, Wolf, Flare, Seraphim, and Seeker, since I don't think they're going to have a chance to evolve their Personas like the rest of us did, but maybe it's for the best?" Oracle said as Seraphim spoke up.

"Could be. But maybe we have to have our powers for a while before we potentially get to evolve our Personas like the rest of you did?" Seraphim suggested warily as Seeker spoke up with a nod.

"Perhaps. We're still relatively inexperienced compared to the rest of you anyways." Seeker said as Mona spoke up.

"Inexperienced or not, you're still amazing, Lady Seeker. Never doubt that for a second." Mona said kindly as Seeker blushed and spoke up.

"M-Mona. Thank you." Seeker said as she hugged Mona again before leaning in to kiss him on the cheek in gratitude, making both Seeker and Mona blush. Panther giggled and spoke up.

"Aww, how cute. They're blushing at the same time." Panther said as Mona and Seeker spoke up at the same time.

"PANTHER/LADY PANTHER! DON'T TEASE US!" Seeker and Mona both said in embarrassment as the others laughed and Panther spoke up.

"Sorry, sorry. Couldn't resist." Panther said as Draconis spoke up.

"In any case, now that we're back together, I assume that our next move is to climb that tower that appeared when Joker and Crow finished the maze and seize the second core?" Draconis said as Joker nodded and spoke up.

"Correct. But first, we're taking a bit of a breather. We've earned it and then some after what we went through in that maze." Joker said as the others nodded and got comfortable to recover from their experiences in the maze...

END OF CHAPTER

A/N: And boom, there we go, another chapter done and dusted! YES, I have now given all the Thieves who didn't get a Tier 3 Persona in Phantom Files a Tier 3 Persona. As such, this will be the final lineup of Tier 3 Personas for the rest of the fic (excluding a couple of change-ups that still remain to be observed):

Joker- Raoul

Mona- Diego

Skull- William

Panther- Celestine

Fox- Gorokichi

Queen- Agnes

Oracle- Albus and Al Azif

Noir- Lucy

Crow- Hereward

Violet- Ella

Draconis- Malefor

Pendragon- Kohryu

Flare- Hester

Wolf- Valjean

Seraphim- Sraosha

There is one more Thief to Awaken still, but I won't say who it is yet, since that will be revealed in the next arc. And as to why I excluded Seeker from the list? Suffice it to say there's a good reason for it that I can't discuss here lest I spoil anyone reading this story that hasn't played through canon Strikers at least once before reading this (which if you haven't, GO PLAY STRIKERS! It's an amazing game for what it is, and has a solid plot and great characters! GO PLAY IT!) about potential plot details for future Jails.

But anyways, let's leave it at that for now, though. That being said, since a lot of Thieves gained new Master Arts, let me take a moment to go over each new Master Art and explain what it does. Note that for Skull, Panther, Fox, and Queen, their Master Arts were unlocked with the acquisition of their Tier 3 Personas.

Mona: Miracle Rush (After a Level 5 combo, Mona does a Severe-strength Physical strike on a wide range of foes with a high chance of Critical)

Noir: Life Wall ((After a Level 4 combo, Noir can lay down barriers that give the effects of 'Tetraja', 'Tetrakarn', and 'Makarakarn', and also gives off the effects of 'Enduring Soul' (Survive one fatal attack and be restored to full HP) once per battle. On a subsequent use, replaces 'Enduring Soul' with Endure, and third usage and on in the same battle gives the 'Youthful Wind' effect (Medium strength HP recovery and buffs Evasion/Critical rate for all allies in range) NOTE: Can only be used again after all three barriers are lowered))

Skull: Fighting Spirit (After a Level 3 combo, Skull can give all allies the effects of 'Matarukaja', 'Marakukaja', and 'Charge' for a short time.)

Panther: High Energy (After a Level 4 combo, Panther can give all allies the effects of 'Concentrate' and 'Masukukaja' for a short time.)

Fox: Hyakka Ryouran (After a Level 5 combo, Fox can give all allies the 'Heat Riser' effect for a short time)

Queen: Checkmate (After a Level 4 combo, Queen can cast 'Debilitate' on all enemies for a short time)

Draconis: Dyne-dolaon Burst (After a Level 4 combo, Draconis will summon Malefor, who will randomly attack all enemies on-screen with either 'Agidyne', 'Garudyne', or 'Megidolaon')

Violet: Masquerade (After a Level 3 combo, Violet does an additional follow-up attack that inflicts Heavy-tier Physical damage on all foes with a moderate chance of inflicting 'Fear' on all foes)

Crow: Megidolaon (After a Level 5 combo, Crow summons Hereward to drop a massive burst of Almighty energy on the enemy, dealing Severe-tier Almighty damage to all foes on-screen)

Joker: Phantom Show (After a Level 4 combo, Joker summons Raoul to create a miasma of power that hits all foes on-screen, dealing Severe-tier Almighty damage with a high chance of inflicting 'Sleep' on all affected foes that aren't resistant to Sleep or able to block it. NOTE: Can ONLY be used if Joker has 'Raoul' equipped)

As the eagle-eyed people that read this chapter no doubt noticed, there were no new Master Arts given to Seeker, Wolf, Flare, Pendragon, Oracle, or Seraphim. This is because they all got other rewards as follows:

Seraphim: Got to speak to Yu's Shadow to hear some of Yu's inner feelings

Wolf: Got to see the spirit of his late wife, Aoi, for a time

Flare: Got to get some closure on what Kamoshida did to her and hear how Panther really feels about her

Pendragon: Got to see the spirit of Wakaba for a time after she helped scold Youji's Shadow, and was also given the revelation that Oracle is his biological daughter

Oracle: Got to reunite with her mother's spirit for a time and speak to her after watching her mother's spirit verbally tear into the Shadow of her uncle

Seeker: Got to have a very enlightening, and also somewhat embarrassing, conversation with the spirit of Violet's sister Kasumi, who Violet introduced to Seeker as her 'Aunt Kasumi', much to the shock of both Seeker AND Kasumi

As for the rest of the Phantom Arts, I might go over them in a later chapter, but for now, that's it until I can figure out what I'm doing as far as Crow, Violet, Draconis, Pendragon, Seraphim, Wolf, and Flare's Master Arts lists. Also, shout-out to jdimock for helping me figure out these rewards for the Thieves in each of the battles. He was a large part of the reason that I was able to put the 'Labyrinth of Memories' subplot together so well. So much thanks to him!

That being said, the next chapter should be the second Prison Keep, third Prison Keep, 'Trauma Cell' fight, and maybe (keyword there being MAYBE) also the Monarch fight if chapter length allows for it. If I do fit all of that in, odds are high that the next chapter will be the end of Arc 6. And if it is, that means chapter 31 will be the Arc 6 interlude, after which the Osaka arc will start. Will it play out exactly as it did in canon Strikers, or will there be changes to it? Only time will tell.

On that note, let me thank everyone who's read not only this far into the chapter, but this far into the story, as your support and dedication are truly mind-blowing and appreciated! Feel free to leave a review with your thoughts/opinions/feedback/constructive criticism for this story (or PM it to me if you don't like reviewing), and I'll try to make it a point to reply to you as I see your reviews. I do enjoy hearing from my readers. And until next chapter, sithlorde1988 out!

PHANTOM THIEF SKILL LISTINGS AND ALLY LIST AS OF THE END OF CHAPTER 29

JOKER (Ren) - Level: 54 Current Personas: Raoul (Level 32), Jack-O'-Lantern (Level 42), Jack Frost (Level 42), Okuninushi (Level 48), Pixie (Level 35), Pisaca (Level 35), Norn (Level 54), Ganesha (Level 54), Queen Mab (Level 51), Fortuna (Level 54) Equipped Persona: Queen Mab Persona Moveset: Mazionga (Elec), Bufudyne (Ice), Makajamaon (Ailment), Concentrate (Support/Buff), Mapsio (Psy), Makouga (Bless), Garula (Wind), Agidyne (Fire)

SKULL (Ryuji) - Level: 49 Current/Partner Persona: William Persona Moveset: Zionga (Elec), Megaton Raid (Physical), Matarukaja (Support/Buff), Attack Master (Passive), Mazionga (Elec), Rebel Soul (Passive), Swift Strike (Physical), Shock Boost (Passive)

MONA (Morgana) - Level: 49 Current/Partner Persona: Diego Persona Moveset: Garula (Wind), Diarahan (Healing), Mediarama (Healing), Magarula (Wind), Wind Boost (Passive), Samarecarm (Healing), Masukunda (Support/Debuff), Dodge Elec (Passive)

PANTHER (Ann) - Level: 50 Current/Partner Persona: Celestine Persona Moveset: Agidyne (Fire), Burn Boost (Passive), Fire Boost (Passive), Soul Thief (Passive), Maragion (Fire), Matarunda (Support/Debuff), Marin Karin (Ailment), Diarama (Healing)

FOX (Yusuke) - Level: 50 Current/Partner Persona: Gorokichi Persona Moveset: Bufula (Ice), Speed Master (Passive), Masukukaja (Support/Buff), Knockdown Style (Passive), Vicious Strike (Physical), Tempest Slash (Physical), Mabufula (Ice), Dodge Fire (Passive)

QUEEN (Makoto) - Level: 49 Current/Partner Persona: Agnes Persona Moveset: Freila (Nuclear), Dekunda (Support/Buff), Marakukaja (Support/Buff), Mafreila (Nuclear), Diarama (Healing), Flash Bomb (Physical), Mediarama (Healing), Nuke Boost (Passive)

NOIR (Haru) - Level: 49 Current/Partner Persona: Lucy Persona Moveset: Psio (Psy), Psy Boost (Passive), Heat Riser (Support/Buff), Triple Down (Gun), Evil Smile (Ailment), Amrita Shower (Healing), Mapsio (Psy), Gun Boost (Passive)

ORACLE (Futaba) - Level: 54 Current Personas: Al Azif and Albus Equipped Persona: Al Azif Persona Moveset: Analysis (Passive), Moral Support (Passive), Active Support (Passive), Moral Boost (Passive), Active Boost (Passive), Moral Boost EX (Passive), Active Boost EX (Passive), Final Guard (Passive)

SEEKER (Sophia) - Level: 49 Current/Partner 'Persona': Pithos Persona Moveset: Kougaon? (Bless), Bless Amp? (Passive), Diarama? (Healing), Makouga? (Bless), Mediarama? (Healing), Marakunda? (Support/Debuff), Divine Grace? (Passive), Recarm? (Healing)

WOLF (Zenkichi) - Level: 53 Current/Partner Persona: Valjean Persona Moveset: Megido (Almighty), Gun Boost (Passive), Dekaja (Support/Debuff), Technical High (Passive), Triple Down (Gun), Heat Riser (Support/Buff), Enduring Soul (Passive), Sukukaja (Support/Buff)

VIOLET (Sumire) - Level: 50 Current/Partner Persona: Ella Persona Moveset: Kouga (Bless), Dodge Curse (Passive), Diarama (Healing), Bless Boost (Passive), Heat Wave (Physical), Makouga (Bless), Tempest Slash (Physical), Samarecarm (Healing)

DRACONIS (Kusa) - Level: 49 Current/Partner Persona: Malefor Persona Moveset: Agilao (Fire), Garula (Wind), Mediarama (Healing), Rising Slash (Physical), Masukunda (Support/Debuff), Vicious Strike (Physical), Megido (Almighty), Almighty Boost (Passive)

CROW (Goro) - Level: 49 Current/Partner Persona: Hereward Persona Moveset: Eiga (Curse), One-Shot Kill (Gun), Maeiga (Curse), Deathbound (Physical), Debilitate (Support/Debuff), Mudo (Curse/insta-kill), Megidola (Almighty), Curse Boost (Passive)

PENDRAGON (Sojiro) - Level: 49 Current/Partner Persona: Kohryu Persona Moveset: Psiodyne (Psy), Assault Dive (Physical), Concentrate (Support/Buff), Mediarama (Healing), Mapsio (Psy), Evade Nuke (Passive), Spell Master (Passive), Psy Boost (Passive)

FLARE (Shiho) - Level: 49 Current/Partner Persona: Hester Persona Moveset: Bufula (Ice), Oni-Kagura (Physical), Mediarama (Healing), Divine Grace (Passive), Recarm (Healing), Freila (Nuclear), Ice Boost (Passive), Nuke Boost (Passive)

SERAPHIM (Nanako) - Level: 48 Current/Partner Persona: Sraosha Persona Moveset: Zionga (Elec), Heat Wave (Physical), Divine Grace (Passive), Mazionga (Elec), Recarm (Healing), Elec Boost (Passive), Hama (Bless/insta-kill), Dodge Curse (Passive)

Allies: Ichinose, Akane, Taichi, Momoe, Sae, Yu, Yosuke, Chie, Yukiko, Kanji, Rise, Teddie, Naoto

LIST OF KNOWN TRIAD SPECIALS AS OF THE END OF CHAPTER 29

DIVINE BLIZZARD (Draconis, Fox, Violet)

PURGATORY ARROW (Crow, Noir, Panther)

REBELLIOUS VENGEANCE BURST (Joker, Skull, Seeker)

SNOW CAT-JUTSU (Mona, Flare, Wolf)

JUDGEMENT STRIKE (Oracle, Queen, Pendragon)

STORM OF HEAVEN (Violet, Mona, Seeker)

HELLISH ELEMENTAL TRINITY (Skull, Panther, Flare)

MIRROR OF THE ORDAINED (Pendragon, Mona, Draconis)