Shinku: HP: 85/90 SP 30/30
________________

Glad to avoid the creature's attacks, Shinku was more than glad to keep up the assault summoning her persona again. "Persona!" She said as her mask appeared and the giant woman appeared above her. She made a punch towards the shadow as Jeanne d'Arc followed suit swinging her sword at the monster (-5 HP) connecting (9 roll) and dealing another 49 damage to the creature. "We can do this!" She exclaimed as Jeanne d'Arc faded into her mind again. She was confindent in their victory over this creature, and saving the teacher.

________________
Shinku: HP: 80/90 SP: 30/30

HP: 28/68
SP: 48/52

---

Gruffydd had to admit to himself, the large shadow hit like a truck. It knocked the air out of his lungs, and lifted him up and over Shiro and Bride's heads. Somehow, he managed to wind up on his feet—stable, if not unharmed. Then the Colossal Maya did something that Gruffydd really didn't understand. No doubt more of this world's nonsense, but whatever it was confused him. He could barely tell where he was, the world around him was an impenetrable haze.

Jonathan's voice cut through it like a knife, and he briefly saw his fellow immigrant's Persona before it faded. Whatever that skill he used was, it worked miracles. I still feel like shit from that other attack though. I hope this doesn't take too much longer. His gaze fell on the shadow's mask.

"Well, only one way to bring this little play to a close."

[Herne the Hunter used Garu! Roll: 19! Critical Hit!]

The wind was picking up around him as his mask again appeared over his face. Herne appeared again, and the massive Persona thrust his open hand towards the enemy. Faint wisps of green could be seen amidst the miniature gale as it slammed into their gargantuan opponent, knocking it again to the floor.

[113 Damage dealt to Colossal Maya! Enemy Down!]

"You can hit pretty hard, fuckhead. But not hard enough."

---

HP: 28/68
SP: 44/52

With that last especially powerful Garu from Gruffydd, the giant shadow was once again knocked down and vulnerable to an All-Out Attack. Kazuo signaled the assault and charged towards the shadow. After another combined assault, the students retreated back to their positions like last time.

> 129 Almighty Physical damage to Colossal Maya

Once the shadow recovered, it turned its sights onto Shinku. It's eyes blinked brightly for a second and cold air began to leak from its mouth. Then, beneath Shinku, something seems to be rising out of the ground.

> Rolled 12

A giant icicle (Bufu) burst from the floor and made direct impact with Shinku.

> 40 Ice damage to Shinku

The shadow raised three of its arms once more and went for another Axel Claw attack.

> Target: Dai; Rolled 3
> Target: Saito; Rolled 19
> Target: Saito; Rolled 8

The first arm coming at Dai proved unsuccessful but the other two arms managed to hit their target: Saito. Fortunately, Saito managed to take both hits like a champ even though the first one looked like it could've incapacitate anyone else on the team.

> 32 Strike damage to Saito

"Persona!" Sigurd appeared once more and shot a fireball (Agi) at the shadow.

> Kazuo's SP: 24 SP --> 20 SP
> Rolled 12
> 84 Fire damage to Colossal Maya

Upon impact, the shadow seemed especially hurt and that's when the team got a mentioned from Minto that the shadow is weak to fire attacks. Kazuo nodded a thanks to Minto and smirked at the shadow who was now knocked down once more. Everyone knows what that means: it's time for another All-Out Attack! Kazuo gave the signal and the team charged at the shadow, delivering another devastating assault and returning to their positions. It might not be long now before the shadow is finally defeated but it's difficult to tell. For now, the students will keep on fighting.

> 129 Almighty Physical damage to Colossal Maya

---

Kazuo
HP: 80 / 84 HP
SP: 20 / 36 SP

HP: 67
SP: 17

---

After Saito attacked failed to seemingly hurt the Shadow much, one of his classmates used a wind attack and the group attacked in a massive frenzy and Saito even joined this time, he has hit the shadow once hard on its back he nearly bent the pipe by hitting it so hard.

"That was awesom-!" Saito cheered in an oddly cheerful tone from him, but before he could finished his sentence the shadow has swung at him twice with its massive arms at him making him and grunt in pain and he was reeling back from the impact of the harsh attack, but once he got his balance back he took a breath of relief, he was still okay, he guessed anyway, he could be able to handle one more attack like that at least. But the other not so much, his main attack won't do much so he will have to lay back and play support for the group.

But first after Kazuo used a fire spell the group decided it was best to group on the shadow while its dazed, while in the group attack Saito hit it over the head, and when it was over he motioned his hand over his face and a mask appeared over his face again and he yelled "Beowulf time!" Saito yelled out as Beowulf appeared behind him and he lifted his sword high and a healing light surrounded Gruffydd and healed off 45 HP and costing Saito 3 SP.

---

HP: 67
SP: 14

The battle was advancing at a pace Johnathan wasn't exactly unhappy about. But with everyone getting hurt in the process, he deemed it neccessary to heal his comrades, so they wouldn't succumb to their injuries and die. He was going to make sure they could fight and survive. It was the least he could do for them, giving that they were protecting him as well.

Johnathan called out his persona once more, and used its power to cast Dia. A low power healing spell, but given his ability to use Magic was excellent. He was able to heal Shinku@pyromania99 of 50 HP, returning him back to 80 HEALTH.

"hey! Don't worry about your injuries, i'll try to heal you as best as I can! So long as the monster doesn't obliterate me in the process...!"

----------------

Hp: 40/40
Sp: 70/80

Dai counted his blessing just as he managed to duck in time for the inky arm to fly over his head. Saito wasn't so lucky as two arms hit the poor guy all at once. Luckily, not only did Saito held on, but he also managed to heal Gruffydd before the last bottle of iced coffee could be used.

Dai tossed an appreciative grin at Johnathan and Saito, finally able to breathe easy now that someone was finally acting as support. Spamming the boss with its weaknesses and beat downs were all good - hell, he wasn't complaining about that - but its attacks were doing a number on them. Welp, no need to heal now. Dai dropped the drink back into the bag before he drew his bow and arrow. Three full all-out-attacks and the monster was still going. Geez, how much longer will they have to keep beating this thing down?

"Persona!" Once again, his mask appeared and Stuart Little hovered before him. This time a column of light flashed onto Gruffydd - the light was weak enough not to blind the foreign student yet strong enough to be noticeable (Tarukaja). Gruffydd would feel a surge of strength, increasing any damage he dishes out by 20% for the next three turns.

------------------------------
Dai
HP: 65/65
SP: 36/55

HP: 68/68
SP: 44/52

---

Their pileup on the Colossal Maya complete, Gruffydd retreated out of the way before their massive foe could rouse itself from the stupor that his attack had put it in. It wasn't long before one of his classmates, Saito, used his Persona to heal him. He was much too far to thank verbally, so Gruffydd gave him a salute with his shovel.

[color=forestgren]We're fighting a giant, many-armed, inky-black... thing. With these "Personae." That all seem to be named after characters from folk-tales and legends. In a crappy version of the city our school is in. At the bottom of a pit. To save our teacher. How did our lives get so weird?[/color] But before Gruffydd could ponder this any further, Dai summoned his Persona to boost his strength. It was strange, but Gruffydd could feel the power. He gave another salute—this time to Dai—before turning again to the Colossal Maya.

[Roll: 7! Hit! 108 Damage Dealt to Colossal Maya! Enemy Down!]

Hernse seemed to glow with an unearthly light, and Gruffydd knew—somehow—that was the boost that Dai had given him. Once again, as before, Herne thrust his arm at the Colossal Maya, and the gale struck, doing it considerable harm. It was swiftly on the floor, once again.

It seems to be attacking us haphazardly. Otherwise it would have focused down me and Kazuo—our attacks, or at least our type of attacks, are what have hurt it the most. Here's hoping this thing doesn't wisen up.

Again.

Once again they managed to bring it down, which they promptly took advantage of by piling upon it a flurry of blows. And yet the thing still stood defiant, no sign of wearing down apparent. She was beginning to think it would never die. After all, what was it but shadows? There was nothing that said it followed the same rules as they did, especially in this place.

Again Natsuki tried to use Garu, though the blast of wind missed again.

If things go really south....

---

All Out 133 dmg dealt
Roll:3 Garu missed the target
HP:40/40 SP:72/80

Shinku HP: 80/90 SP: 30/30
______________________

Shinku took the ice attack, and felt greatly weakened until Johnathan used an ability to heal her. "Thanks!" She called out to him. Still, with the amount of times they've been able to just beat on this thing. . . . Well, it's been working out so far. However, Ito has missed with both of her "spells" as these seemed to be most akin to. "Oi! Ito!" She called out to the girl, "You got him next time!" She exclaimed, hoping to keep spirits up. Other than that. . most everyone seemed to be in decent shape right now. . . She felt she could use something similar to what Jonathan and some of the others could, but, well, might as well try more. As her mask reformed over her face she muttered, "Come to me." Jeanne d'Arc appeared and followed Shinku's movements again, draining some of her health. The shadow took 49 damage from the attack (17 roll) weakening ever so slightly.

_______________________
Shinku HP: 75/90 SP: 30/30

Masako
HP: 69/69
SP: 51/51

---

For one reason or another the giant shadowy monster of death was still standing. It definitively was stronger than the ones that Kazuo had dealt with earlier. But that did'nt mean they should give up right? No, that means you just got to keep on hitting it until it stops moving. Masako clutching her rubber band gun ran forward to get an angle on the beast and knew what she had to do. She channeled herself feeling that familiar tiger like roar from before and a surge of warmth as the tiger mask forms. Summoning Hervor she pointed at the creature and the large ethereal warrior pointed as well with her spear. Masako yelled at the top of her lungs feeling a surge of energy leave her body.
"Garu!"






A surge of wind came forth from underneath the great beast almost like a mini tornado whipping across its ink like flesh as it roared out in pain. Though that did not seem like enough to knock the thing out just yet. Though Masako was at least proud of herself for actually being able to do something.

> 133 Almighty Physical damage to Colossal Maya

That last assault managed to sever three of the shadow's arms; it also seems that the shadow is slumping over now when it's standing. Could it mean that the battle is nearing its end? In any case, it's Kazuo's turn now. Placing his hand over his face, he shouts, "Sigurd!" Appearing again, Sigurd sent a fireball (Agi) shooting towards the shadow.

> Kazuo's SP: 20 SP --> 16 SP
> Rolled 8
> 84 Fire damage to Colossal Maya

The shadow is down. Kazuo looked at the others and told them that this next All-Out Attack could potentially decide the battle, urging them to give it their all. Kazuo charged at the shadow with his classmates and deliver their final assault. With each blow, parts of the massive shadow broke off and dissipated into static. Kazuo urged his classmates to keep at it. He delivered a hard strike to the shadow's mask, cracking it; as a result, the shadow's head disappears. After some time, the students have finally destroyed the gargantuan monster; saving their teacher in the process.

> 133 Almighty Physical damage to Colossal Maya
> Colossal Maya is defeated
> Everyone receives ¥4,000

As the last of the shadow faded into static, Kazuo fastened his baton onto his belt and smiled in relief. The group then turned their attention onto Ms. Sasaki. Kazuo walked over to her and kneeled down to check on her. There doesn't seem to be any physical injuries on the visible parts of her body and she is still breathing so that's a relief. She seems to only be unconscious. One of the students should pick her up. Shiro walks over to the group. "You did it... You saved her..." Kazuo nodded in response and thanked Shiro for leading them here. "Oh, it's nothing. You're the ones that did all the rescuing. I..." Shiro's sentence trailed off. Kazuo asked him what was wrong. "Well... I hope I've earned a bit of your trusts now but I wouldn't hold it against any of you if you still find me suspicious." Kazuo replied bluntly, telling Shiro that he did earned a bit of his trust. But now the bigger question remains: how do they get out of here?

Suddenly, from behind the group, a door of blue velvet and ornament design appeared out of a bright light. "W-What is that...?" Shiro doesn't seem to know the origins of this beautiful yet unusual door. Kazuo, however, stepped forward and examined the front of the door; the back of the door is nothing but blue wood. Kazuo then looked back at the others and told them, rather surely, that this door is the exit. "Y-You're sure about this?" Kazuo nodded in affirmation at Shiro's question. "I see... I believe this means 'goodbye'..." When the others have gathered in front of the door, Kazuo turned to Shiro and ask what he would do from here on out. "Quite the question... I obviously can't go with you all. I don't know what I'll do now but... I hope I can figure it out. The shadows here have become more and more aggressive as time passes. I may have to lay low for a while. Ahh, but that's none of your concern. Goodbye— That's right. I've yet to learn any of your names. How rude of me to never ask, especially when you've given me one."

Kazuo introduced himself to Shiro with a polite smile. Once the others have introduced themselves and said their goodbyes, they turn to face the door. Kazuo nodded then opened the door and entered along with his classmates. As the door closes, Shiro perked up and rushed towards the door, hoping to grab it just in time. "W-Wait! I don't want to stay here in this forsaken world! Take me with y—" The door disappeared just as Shiro grabbed the handle and, as a result, he fell flat onto his face.


The group is now inside a massive blue room with numerous shelves of books surrounding them. They were then greeted by the appearance of a bizarre-looking man with an impossibly long nose or, as Kazuo knows him as, Igor. "Welcome to the Velvet Room." Kazuo greeted Igor. "Welcome back..." Kazuo explained to the others that he had a dream about this place before but didn't actually know that it was real until now. Igor opened a book in front of him and flipped through the pages methodically; each page contained the image of an Arcana card. "It seems that fate has assembled you all here for a reason. Allow me to introduce myself... My name is Igor. This place exists between dream and reality, mind and matter. It is a room that only those who are bound by a 'contract' may enter. You've all signed that 'contract' when you awakened to your inner selves - your Persona."

Suddenly, Ms. Sasaki began to fade in the arms of whoever was carrying her. It only took seconds before she disappeared completely, much to everyone's surprise amongst other things. That's when a tall man with pale hair walked into view, removing blue leather gloves from his hands while he does so. "Do not be alarmed. Your teacher is safe. She cannot exist within the confines of this space therefore she had to be moved. When you leave this room, go to Nichibotsu Hospital if you wish to see her," the pale-haired man explained.

"This is my assistant. His name is Walton and he is a resident of this place, like myself."

"Pleasure," Walton impassively greeted.

"A great calamity approaches. The true nature of it, I cannot tell for certain. But, as you can see, all of you possess a great power. Perhaps great enough to stand against the encroaching danger... In this upcoming year, the calamity will slowly but surely reveal itself to you all. You must stop it with the power you've been given or I fear your world as you know it may be changed forever."

"I understand that this is a lot to take in and the responsibility has been thrust upon you without choice. However, the fact that you've awakened to your Persona is proof of your destiny," Walton explained.

"Persona - the inner self. Are you aware of the many and varied selves you harbor within you? The self suffused with divine love. The self capable of demonic cruelty. People live by wearing different masks. The Persona you possess now is but one of many masks that you may wear. My assistant and I will be here to aid you by unlocking the truths residing within your hearts: your other selves... The next time any of you come here, it will be of your own free will. By then, you may have unlocked another facet of yourself for which you may use to battle the calamity that lies ahead. But to come back to this room, you will each need one of this..." An ultramarine key appeared before each student; Kazuo caught his key when it fell down.

> Everyone receives the Velvet Key

"Until next time, farewell..."

A blinding light flashes before the students' eyes and, the next thing they knew, they were back at school; in the central building. Kazuo looked back and notices the Velvet Room's door behind them. Connecting the dots, could the Velvet Room be the second library that the rumors have been talking about? Outside, it looks to be almost evening time. Kazuo turned to the others and suggested they go to Nichibotsu Hospital to check up on Ms. Sasaki.

Bride sighed in relief...it was over, he was gald to help out and tell his classmates the weakness of the monster to his classmates once they hit the beast but he was a bit sad...he wasnt really a team player proabbaly...everyone was healing each other nad giving one a hand and he was just telling the weakness...he wished he had some use but for now Ms. Sasaki was safe at that was good. Mikko disspaered as his mask did, he walked towards the group though he didnt say anything he was just happy for them to di it it just he...wanted to put some effort as well.

As Mr. Bunny and Kazuo were talking a blue door apperead. "....woah...." Bride muttered out, it was like magic or something, maybe it lead to a fairy magical world or the pirate seas or much more. Magc seemed so much real since he got his persona like the others. He turned to Mr. Bunny gave him a hug as a goodbye, he was a nice bunny man very much and he was sure to pay him back.

"Goodbye Mr. Bunny I p-promise to pay back...oh my n-ame is Minto but call me Bride I hope we meet again." He said sweetly as the others opened the door and headed in, it was over...they were finally going to leave but just... he hugged Mr. Bunny once more, he really liked him alot. He made him feel special, as they left Bride felt a bit...happier and free yet there were still alot ot answer...plus wet clothes...still not have changed at all.



Everything was so...different like... it just he never expected all of this at all he just thought it would like another adventure but no... this was something else. It was a blue library and there was an old Pinocchio man! The long nose... its creepy looking and this guy named Walter...woah...Bride needed a minute to process everything that just happened. Ms Sasaki was apparently in a safe place and cant stay there phew he thought she was gone after she faded away... just phew indeed.

He didn't understand much, he dozed off when he thought about the wet clothes and didn't hear how everything was in calamity and such but basically they can go here to get other selves and be stronger.... hopefully that what he got... Kazuo had that dream though, it was so cool for him to have that dream.

A key was given to them then suddenly a bright light and they were back in school.



As they were back Bride almost collapsed it was just... a tiring day that for sure.... he needed a hot bath with some lavender soap and some lemon bars and he is good to go. Kazuo suggested to go to visit Ms. Sasaki but though first he wanted to change wet clothes not nice and his white shirt was revealing his chest... he didn't like his chest showing at all. "uumm....C-can I change first?" He asked lowering his head and blushing while using his arms to try to hide his chest...to pretty obvious he is a guy at this point yet that face though...

It was a tough grueling fight, but the battle would soon be at a close. Johnathan was worn out, tired and exhausted from having to keep dodging, moving and slashing, but like the others, the adrenaline inside his system kept the pudgy male going. He wasn't going to fall being, he wasn't going to get carried, he was going to make sure he could help others, not the other way around. With a scream, Kazuo had knocked the shadow down, it once again fell, vulnerable to assault, Johnathan along with his other classmates attacked the monstrous entity, with Kazuo managing to give the killing blow, shredding the monstrous maya to little pieces as it vanished from sight and disintegrated.

Johnathan collapsed onto his knees, and for the first time since he got here, he smiled. Tears of joy sweltered in his eyes. He survived. He actually did something useful. He saved someone! Johnathan didn't know just how to express himself, and started to weep happy tears. Not needing any help to stand up again, he loosely held his crossbow to his side and approached Ms. Sasaki, then looking to the others, he choked on his words, before croaking out, something he almost thought was unbelievable.

"Guys... We... We did it... we... we saved her... We saved someone!!"

Johnathan approached bride and smiled, nodding to him with his first confident nod.

"Thanks for telling us the monsters weaknesses. If you didn't, I doubt we would've known to keep using those attacks! You really helped us back there! If I can help in anyway... Or you know... Do something as thanks, i- I gues... Uh... It's just my way of saying thanks, dude. I mean.. Uh... Lets-"

Johnathan blushed red and turned away shyly, turning his attention to the woman laying on the ground, Johnathan made the effort, despite being chubby and rounded, he lifted her up gently. Putting her arm over his shoulders to help drag her.

"Leave Miss to me. I'll h- help bring her back"

Johnathan then started to listen to the rabbit talk about how much he hopes they can trust him now. Johnathan felt bad for the way he reacted before, and decided to speak up.

"Hey... Sorry Shiro... For yelling at you earlier... It was a kneejerk reaction... I think I can trust you more now... since you helped save Miss..."

Just then, before anything else could be said, a blue velvet door had appeared among them, illuminating the area before them. Johnathan quickly gazed with a look of confusion and shock, mouth opened agape as the door laid there so mysteriously. Kazuo explaining that it would most likely be the exit.

"Uh... The exit? Well, what are we waiting for then?!"

Johnathan quickly helped the unconscious Sasaki over, while staring back at the white masked stranger Shiro one last time. His last words to them made him ponder. And would make him ponder for quite a while. His message seemed ominous. This world was getting more aggressive, most likely something was happening, something dark, something horrible. Shiro then asked the group about their names, so before Johnathan left, he answered.

"The names Johnathan... Call me Johnny or, J.J or... heh, anything really! It's nice to meet you Shiro... Stay safe...!"

With that, he left, heading through the open door cautiously, the world shifted and twisted around him, teleporting John to an entirely new area. One filled with nothing but velvet blue. His thoughts of ease shifted to cautiousness, as the vision of a long nosed man appeared before him and his allies...



The man welcomed them to the velvet room. Such a nonchalant way of speaking to them, Johnathan felt the need to speak up, but Kazuo had already spoken up before him, explaining that he had a dream of this place that he didn't know was real until now. It made him feel a little less uncomfortable, but then again, mysteriously seeing this place in a dream only to now visit it like this? Coincidence, I think not. Igor explained they were locked in a dimension between dreams and reality, of mind and of matter and that they have signed a contract to enter this realm, because of their persona's.

"It's obvious we weren't brought here by chance... Whoever you are... Igor... I didn't sign anything... Just who the hell...-!"

When Sasaki vanished, Johnathan grasped at thin air, trying to grip at whatever was left before she faded away all together. About to kick up a storm and scream for answers, the voice of Walton spoke and Johnathan calmed down, thought he was still nervous, he simply allowed igor to explain himself personally, as he bestowed upon them knowledge that a great calamity was to come, and that with their powers, their persona's, they must stop it. Possibly they would be the only ones who COULD stop it. The next time we would come into the room, it would be of our own free will, and thus, bestowed each one of them a key. Johnathan held onto his tightly. He wanted to ask more questions, but that time would have to come later. His vision faded, and he reawoke... In school?



Johnathan groggily sat himself up. Rubbing his eyes.

("A... dream?") He automatically assumed. But when we saw his cuts and bruises, and the crossbow in his hands, he knew it all too well... That it was no dream. It all had happened to him, and this great calamity would befall the world one day. Johnathan looked around and saw his other classmates, smiling, he decided to stand up, and walk over to them.

"Guys... I'm sorry for what happened back there. With my... With my otherside. I know you all probably... think i'm strange, and if so, I understand... I can only hope you can accept me, even if I have a darker... side to myself."

Johnathan smiled half-heartedly, nervous as to what the others thought of him. They all heard about his history, his past, his deep feelings of depression, inferiority and oppression. His secrets were laid bare to them. He had nothing to hide. He felt relieved and yet, afraid. He had no idea how they would take it.

When Kazuo spoke up about going to see Miss Sasaki in the hospital, Johnathan was about to agree, until Bride spoke up, about wanting to change. Johnathan blushed again and smiled, trying to hide his blush by coughing nervously.

"Maybe we should all get changed and well... Try to make sense of everything. We could all meet eachother outside the gates, yeah? ... It's good to meet you guys by the way. I know i'm not japanese but, I hope you all will treat me nicely... I'll make sure we stop whatevers coming... and uh... uhm... y-yeah..."

The pudgy foreigner nodded to the rest and walked out to go get changed, redressed, and cool down. He needed a little time to think on the events so far.

Saito was getting exhausted from ganging up on the giant shadow, but sighed a breath of relief once they finally took it down with an final all out attack.
Though he fought as hard as everybody else Saito didn't feel as useful as the others, since his ice attacks weren't as strong as the others, but thankfully he was useful with his healing.

Once the shadow disappeared into nothingness. Saito and the rest of his classmates gathered around Ms Sasaki, much to Saito's relief she was okay for the most part. One of the foreigners, the chubb- no his name is Johnathan, he should start calling them by their names. And since Johnathan thanked Minto Saito decided to thank the feminine young boy.

"Yeah, it nice that one of us has such a useful ability, and an heal, I would say your the one with awesome powers Minto." Saito praised Bride on his ability, while he wasn't as blush-y as Johnathan he was still flushed. " we were all pretty awesome just now if I had to be honest..." Saito said in a oddly sincere tone.

After Johnathan picked up Ms Sasaki, Shiro came up to the group and congratulated them, and said he had no hard feelings if they mistrust him, Saito shakes his head, Saito trusted the oddly dressed man, he was useful and polite to them the entire time, if not for him Ms Sasaki might be dead.

But suddenly a bright velvet blue door appered to he group and before Saito could question it Kazuo explained what it was.

Shiro seemed sad the group had to leave, Saito felt bad that he won't leave with them and stay here. But he said goodbye and asked for their names, Saito nodded and introduced himself.
"I would say it was nice meeting you but it wasn't the most pleasant time here, but I wish we meet in better times, Shiro, I'm Saito and stay safe." Saito said in a polite tone as he and the group walked though the door.



Suddenly Saito and the group found themselves in a velvet blue room with an oddly nosed man. The man spoke in a weird manner he could barely comprehend, and suddenly Ms Sasaki vanished from Johnathan arms when he looked Saito was about to ask in panic where she gone, but a lightly blond man explained that she doesn't belong here and she would be at the hospital when they get back. And he explained how they are the only ones who can stop a upoming calamity, though he would never say, being a chosen one sounds better then his life would ever get, but he stayed quiet when they all got a key from the man Saito put his around his neck and the man said his goodbyes and the next moment they were at the school again.



Saito questioned if any of what happened was real for a moment but with the pipe in hand and a key around his neck he knew it was real.

But Minto, or Bride as he liked to called if his introduction to Shiro was anything to go by, asked for a changed of clothe and although Saito knew he was a guy his chest was showing and Saito looked away in a mix of politeness and embarrassment for the two of them, Saito nodded. In and a quick moantion he took off his coat and placed it on Bride's small frame which hopefully covered his upper body from leering eyes. Saito coughed awkwardly.

" I third that Idea of changing before we see Ms Sasaki, don't want to get others the wrong idea if we run around with weapons and ruffled up clothes. And it's no problem at all Johnathan, I guess we all seen our dark side... literally." Saito spoke formally and yet casually for the Forced hermit.

"I can walk with you bride, to your dorm, so you can use my coat until than, is that okay?"

Shinku was just relieved that the giant enemy was finally downed. One last barrage of attacks brought it down and brought safety to the group, for now at least. This world seemed dangerous, well moreso than their world. Before she got the chance to pick up the teacher, Saito beat her to it.

The blue door, as Kazuo described what it was, seemed interesting. As the whole of the group stepped through the door, Shinku nodded towards Shiro and mouthed, "We should likely see each other again," before disappearing behind the confines of the. . .

Velvet Room.

Shinku was amazed by the inside of the door though. Beautiful could be a word to describe it. She did enjoy the color blue, and it was just a nice majestic shade of it. The books were intriguing as well. It felt a bit like a library but beyond the pleasantries that may or may not be. . . There was a man with an incredibly extended nose. He was also spouting many varied things, "Persona", "Calamity". . . Hell, it was not what she was expecting on her way to school that morning. Whatever they may be, something "between dream and reality, mind and matter" like the place they "resided". . . They were confident, Igor and Walton.

Calamity has, in a realistic sense, one meaning. If nothing else, it was nothing good. That being said there were many things "nothing good" could mean, so if what they said were true. . . Well, it was something to figure out later. For now, Shinku grabbed the key in front of her. . . And then. . .

School

They were in school now as the words "Until next time, farewell..." floated through Shinku's head. Whatever these Personas were. . . They held the power to be very dangerous. Still, they were home now. . . Well, in their world might be the best way to put it. With the one known as "Minto" still wet from falling in the water, most seemed to have decided to head back and change clothes or something before visiting their teacher in the hospital. Not a bad idea, Shinku though. "Want to head back Ito?" She continued as she looked at her roommate. Hopefully the girl wouldn't be so reclusive now with the whole "Persona" thing out on the board. "Well, let's hurry it up one way or the other I suppose." Shinku muttered as she made a wave-like hand motion encouraging the Natsuki to follow.

They had just finished hacking their opponent into pieces, pieces which quickly dispersed into ever more static. The Colossal Maya, which had once dominated the room, was gone, leaving the room feeling empty. Guffydd's heart was pounding, his blood rushing through his ears, his breath no more than heavy panting from the exertion of chopping that monstrosity to bits with a shovel.

I feel alive.

But before he could ponder the implications of that realization, a glowing blue door appeared. Out of thin air. Makes as much sense as anything else in this place. And Kazuo seemed to think it was the exit. Well, why not? It's either that or a trap, and Kazuo looks like he knows what he's talking about.

Gruffydd breathed in sharply, realizing thathe didn't know where Ms. Sasaki was. He looked around, only to find that Jonathan was carrying the unconscious teacher, and he breathed a sigh of relief.

And then shiro bid them goodbye. "For now, Shiro. Goodbye, for now. Gruffydd's thoughts turned to their Shadows, having been taken away by Kazuo's. "I suspect this won't be the last time we come around here. And the name's Gruffydd Iorwerth. It's been a pleasure meeting you."

---

Gruffydd wasn't sure what he had been expecting on the other side of the door—somewhere in Nichibotsu, maybe?—but a large room, its walls lined with books, occupied with nobody other than a strange old man with an absurdly long nose had not been it. He introduced himself as Igor, a name that Gruffydd thought suited him well.

Persona, eh? That sounds kinda familiar...

And then Ms. Sasaki vanished from Jonathan's arms. Gruffydd's eyes grew wide, and he turned from Jonathen to Igor to demand an explanation. Only for Walton to appear, and explain that Ms. Sasaki couldn't exist here—for some reason. Gruffydd thought it was ridiculous, but the fact that Walton had moved her to the hospital calmed him down somewhat.

Igor's talk of masks, calamities, and power stunned Gruffydd. Apparantly they were a group of "chosen heroes," or something. And if that dream of his was anything to go by, Kazuo's was marked as being "extra chosen." Gruffydd didn't know how to feel about any of that.

But before Gruffydd could properly process any of that, Igor gave each of them a key that, apparently, would let them access the Velvet Room at their leisure. And then they were promptly booted out.

---

Gruffydd groaned as he regained consciousness. At first, he was inclined to think what he had just experienced was a dream, but then he opened his eyes to find himself in the school's central building, shovel in one hand, and Velvet Room Key in the other, leaving no doubt about the reality of the situation.

Then Jonathan stood up, and gave his heartfelt and—in Gruffydd's opinion—fairly awkward apology. Gruffydd wanted to comfort his classmate, but he wasn't exactly in the position to "accept" the apology—his body having been taken on a rampage by his own shadow for even longer than Jonathan's—nor did he think the rest of what Jonathan said was a practical necessity most of what he said. But he was able to pick up on at least some of the emotional significance it held for Jonathan. "Jonathan, you've done more today to help the rest of us, that I've seen, of anyone else here. Whatever else there is to you, you are a kind person, or at least want to be. I can only really speak for myself, but I know that I think you'd be a wonderful person to be around." Tucking the Velvet Room Key into his pants pocket, Gruffydd walked over to Jonathan and gave him a good-natured slap on the back. "And besides," he added a bit more quietly, though not so quiet that the other''s couldn't hear if they were paying attention, "You're not so foreign that everyone you meet says your name wrong. Let me tell you what, that pissed me off so much before I found the humor in it. I'd throw such tantrums..." he came to a close with a chuckle, hoping that the mildly humorous self-degradation of his story would help to put the clearly anxious Jonathan at ease.

He was about to recount one particularly hilarious tantrum involving a ball of twine and a watermelon, when Bride asked about changing clothes. He offered him a sympathetic smile. "Yeah, you're pretty drenched. A change of clothes would probably be a good idea. That must feel pretty uncomfortable."

A thought occurred to him. "Hey, where in the dorms is everyone staying anyways. I'm... He trailed off, briefly describing his current residence, jerking his head in the direction of the building it was in.

After their long fight, the thing finally toppled, relinquishing it's hostage, their teacher. Perhaps now they'd get a higher chance of escaping this odd world. Just as that thought crossed her mind, a shiny door thing materialized out of nowhere from behind them. It was highly suspicious, but considering it was either investigate that, or wander around this fake town to look for something else, it was an obvious choice.

"Quite the question... I obviously can't go with you all. I don't know what I'll do now but... I hope I can figure it out. The shadows here have become more and more aggressive as time passes. I may have to lay low for a while. Ahh, but that's none of your concern. Goodbye— That's right. I've yet to learn any of your names. How rude of me to never ask, especially when you've given me one."

"Ito Natsuki," she replied simply, following the rest of the group going into the door.

---

The Velvet Room

Once inside, they were in another confusing room, with what looked like a goblin and his assistant. The transfer student seemed to be familiar with this place. At the very least, the goblin person didn't try to eat them or steal their first born, though his speech about calamity and what was coming was very disturbing. Doubly so because of the place they had left behind.

Truth be told, she wanted nothing to do with it. Her hands were aching from swinging that stupid stick around, and she doubted that she would have enough in her to prevent a whole damned calamity on the world.

Natsuki still grabbed the key when it materialized in front of her, regardless of her feelings on the matter.

---

School

"We're... back?"

Well, it looked like an ordinary version of the school, no warping on any surfaces, no oddly colored skies, or the presence of those odd shadow monsters.

Natsuki let out a deep sigh of relief. That was not a place she wanted to go back to in a hurry. Her own memories and shortcomings were hers alone, and if anyone else should ever find out.... she felt an odd sort of anger welling up inside her, before realizing she was still holding on to the old stick from before.

"Want to head back Ito?"

"Yes."

She followed Yamada back to their room, pausing once to dump the old stick near a garbage can. All she could think about now was her warm soft bed where she could just crawl in and forget whatever just happened today.

They did it. They finally did it.

The freaky monster was finally defeated!

“Ah man! Good work, everybody!” Despite all the sweat and sores and aches that gathered on his body, the defeat of Colossal Maya was enough for Dai to cry out in joy. Tired yet exhilarated, he held himself steady by bending and pressing his hands against his knees. His heart pounded heavily against his chest as he gasped for breath. The floor looked black and cool. Man, wasn’t it tempting to just collapse onto the ground?

As a man of temptation, Dai would’ve taken his chance if it weren’t for the sudden appearance of a rather decorative blue door. It was intricate in its design and glow a dim light that matched its color. It was hypnotizing to look at. “And that is sooooo not suspicious,” he burrowed his eyebrows as he straightened his back. When Kazuo spoke that the door was a way out, Dai casted the guy a glance and shrugged.

Not long after the door’s mysterious appearance, Shiro bid them a farewell and asked for their names. “I’m Dai. Dai Kumura. It’s nice to meet you, dream boat.” The blond grinned and gave a friendly slap on Shiro’s shoulders as he walked toward the blue door. “Thanks for the help! If this isn’t the last time we see each other, then let chat next time!”

As Kazuo opened the door, Dai winced. The light was so bright, casting them into blue…



Blue. There was even more of that color than the sea itself. From the books to the floor to the ceiling, the only thing that stood out was a strange man with a humongous nose. No, not an exaggeration. It was pretty long. Er… Noticing that he was staring rather rudely at the stranger’s nose for a while now, Dai quickly shook his head and focused on the guy’s words.

“Errrr… Contract?” Dai frowned in a mixture of concern and suspicion. That didn’t sound good. Contracts are a big no-no. He was pretty sure he didn’t have pen in hand when he summoned his hovering mouse thing. “Dude, can I see this contract? Or tell what this contract entails? It’s kinda unfair that…”

Trailing off, Dai continued to listen at the stranger’s – Igor’s – explanation which didn’t explain much of anything except brought up even more questions. A velvet blue key suddenly materialized. With great hesitance, and swearing under his breath that he'll be back for answers, Dai grasped the item.



“Woah…” Dai blinked several times; the dim lights in this new place was far brighter compared to the upside-down Nichibotsu. As the fuzziness that gathered at the edges of his sight faded away, he realized that this place was strangely familiar… it was the Koden Academy.

He glanced behind, staring at the blue door that was very much like the one they had entered in the other world. Wait, isn’t that the same door to the library? Didn’t that ring some bells about something? It was almost as if the wheels in his head turned. Dai gaped at the realization. No way, could it be that… A voice drew Dai from his thoughts as Johnathan began to speak.

“Dude, the world we just walked through was strange. You’re the last thing we’ll be running away from. I think it’s safe to say we accept you and your spooky self. I hope you do the same for us – you know, accepting us and all.” Dai let out a nonchalant shrug, showing that he wasn’t at all bothered. Honestly, the reveal of people’s dark sides wasn’t that big of a deal to him – his hobbies of rumors and gossips did more than enough to make him tolerant of such existence; although, not in such a way where his classmates were literally spewing out their shadows - but he couldn’t help but speak up since Johnathan looked as though he needed to hear proof of acceptance.

“Which building is that?” Dai squinted at the building that Gruffydd vaguely gestured at. “I’m crashing over at Dorm B.”

After Johnathan made his heartfelt apology concerning his darker side that they'd witnessed in the other world, his classmates reassured him that they wouldn't reject him. Dai added that he hopes Johnathan could accept them as well. Kazuo nodded at Dai's statement and gently placed a hand onto Johnathan's shoulder, telling him that he'll be by his side if his dark side ever comes back. Bride then mentioned that he wanted a change of clothes before going to see Ms. Sasaki. Kazuo told him it was a good idea. Shinku and Ito decided to leave for their dorm early after the suggestion. Gruffydd asked the others about their dorms to which Dai answered Dormitory Building B - the same one as Kazuo. Now that he thinks about it, Kazuo did happened to see Dai for just a brief moment yesterday night when he first arrived at the dorm. Kazuo told the others about his living arrangements as well before hearing the others speak.

After a bit of walking and conversing with the others about the events of the day, Kazuo arrived at Dormitory Building B right as evening hits. Kazuo headed upstairs and soon noticed that Dai's room is actually right next to his. Kazuo lightly joked about it being quite the coincidence then mentioned how he'll be out in a bit. Returning into his room, Kazuo removed his blazer and neatly set it onto his bed. He then noticed that he still had his baton. Removing it from his belt, he contemplated the events of the day once more and realized his barely contained excitement. Even after all the numerous bad things, getting his Persona, defeating a giant shadow monster, and rescuing his teacher made it all worth it. He felt alive. This was his escape. Whatever may happen in the future - calamity included - Kazuo is certainly looking forward to it.

Later that evening, Kazuo and his classmates (whoever wants to come) arrived at Nichibotsu Hospital to check up on their teacher. If what Walton said was true, she should be here. Walking to the front desk, Kazuo asked one of the nurses about a 'Ms. Sasaki' as he doesn't know her first name. Fortunately, there was only one Ms. Sasaki at the hospital and it must be their teacher because the nurse also mentioned she had a visitor: a Mr. Takano. Prof. Takano is here? Earlier today when they were in the other world, Gruffydd mentioned something about Prof. Takano's involvement in their situation. Could he be right? Kazuo thanked the nurse and suggested to his classmates that they should hurry to Patient Room 217 on the second floor. Taking the nearest staircase, they arrived at their destination within a matter of minutes. Kazuo looked through the small door window and noticed Ms. Sasaki was awake in bed. After opening the door, he noticed Prof. Takano napping on a stool nearby.

"Oh, there you guys are. I was worried sick about all of you," Ms. Sasaki greeted the students. Kazuo asked if she was okay. "Yeah, I'm fine. The doctor couldn't find anything wrong with me. I must've fainted from heat or exhaustion or something," she explained. Heat is unlikely. After all, it's still only spring and it's not like she was the one lugging the equipment around. Ms. Sasaki seemed blissfully unaware of what had really happened. It's possible that she lost her memories. "More importantly, what happened after I fainted?" Ms. Sasaki asked the group. Kazuo turned around and told the others to follow his story. Turning back, Kazuo explained that some of them stayed with her while others went into town for help. Their cellphones didn't have any signals in the forest. "Oh, so that's it? The nurses mentioned that the man who took me here told them a similar story," she explained. She must be talking about Walton but for him to tell a similar story to Kazuo's?

In any case, Kazuo turned to Prof. Takano and asked Ms. Sasaki about him. "Prof. Takano arrived earlier today. He said you guys didn't come back to class. Then he stayed with me to do some paperwork before nodding off. Jeez, the hangover must've gotten to him..." Kazuo explained that he returned to his dorm. After spending some time with Ms. Sasaki and the basically unconscious Prof. Takano, the group made their way outside of the hospital. Kazuo removed his pocket watch and made a note of how late it was getting. He then looked to his classmates. "About this whole 'calamity' situation: I can only assume it's true considering what we've been through today. This power we were given," Kazuo paused as his rabbit mask materialized in his hand before disappearing almost immediately after, "I'm going to use it to stop whatever's coming. It's not like I'm trying to play 'hero' but, if what Igor and Walton said is true, only we can stop it. I won't force any of you but I will ask this: wanna save the world?" Kazuo asked.

After receiving answers from his classmates, they all went back to school and returned to their dorms. Kazuo bid his classmates a good night before he returned. In his room, Kazuo lie motionless in bed, looking up at the pale white ceiling. None of them know what's coming, not even people like Igor or Walton. The only thing they can do now is wait and, perhaps, strengthen their powers in anticipation. "Persona..." Kazuo whispered in contemplation. The peaceful night continues...

Checking his e-mail on his phone, Kazuo noticed one from Prof. Takano. It mentions that there would be no geography class until Friday as Ms. Sasaki is still recovering in the hospital. A bit of a shame - Kazuo likes the class. Kazuo got up quite early today and left the dorm, opting to go into town for brisk walk before returning back to the dorm to grab a Yakisoba-pan - not typically breakfast food but it was portable food. He then went outside to hangout at the benches near the cherry blossom trees - they're in bloom right now and are quite a magnificent sight. He enjoyed his breakfast with a book to read. Later in the day as he headed to class, Kazuo walked by the Velvet Room door; it's still there but it seems no other students there aside from himself can see it. Classes slowly passed by and it was finally after school.

---

Kazuo
7 Hours Left
¥4,000
Feeling Normal

As morning graced the youths of Nichibotsu, Johnathan heared the sound of his alarm clock blaring in the early morn. With an immediate grasp, Johnathans hand had grasped the clock and immediately flicked it off, sitting upright from the futon which he was sleeping in. It was just then he realized something... This was probably the first time he had not overslept... It was also probably the first time his first intention wasn't to grab the scissors... instead he gripped the alarm clock to shut it off and sit upright, intent on living today, the suicidal thoughts he once had, had all but vanished... This new power he was granted, the power of the Persona, the power to save the world, the power to help people. In trust this was all he really wanted, and would be careful in using its power wisely. This way people may actually take him more seriously, or at least look up to him, instead of him having to look up to everyone else. He could finally give to the world around him.

Johnathan pondered about the previous day, happy to know his new friends could support him, even if he did have a terrible past and was a homosexual, he didn't think people like that ever existed in the world but, it just so happened there was! Johnathan couldn't help but blush and smile, stretching the smile as far as it could go, he held back tears of joy. He knew it couldn't be a dream, he wasn't delusional, this was real, and he was ready to put his life on the line for the joy his friends have just gave him.

Johnathan thought about yesterday and was glad Ms. Sasaki was perfectly fine, though she didn't remember what had happened, perhaps it was for the best, after all, the last thing nichibotsu needs is a widespread panic, and fear would only trouble the people and all who inhabit it. Johnathan had experiences and displayed happiness that Ms. Sasaki was perfectly well, completely ignoring the passed out bastard of a teacher beside her, like he didn't exist. By the time the group left the hospital, after spending time with their teacher, Kazuo talked of the calamity, and how they would have to use their persona's to stop it, and asked, a rather silly question, claiming would they help him save the world, Johnathan remembers clearly what he said that day.

He laughed, tears swelling in his eyes and said. "Ask me any other day, and I probably would be too much of a scaredy cat to do that... But since everyone here accepted me... I finally think I can be myself... I don't have to hide behind fake walls... I have you guys here with me... Just as i'm here for all of you. So I think it's only fair... that my wish to help people... and not become a user comes true. If I saved the world- no... If I save even just one life... I ... Think I can die as an old man happily."

Johnathan stood up and actually decided to get dressed, picking up a pair of worn, rusty, ominous scissors close to his bedside, he figured he would have no need for such dark tools anymore and confidently threw the scissors into the trash where it belonged, he was going to live and save everyone, he had to, it was what he wanted to do. Thus, Johnathan got into his uniform, attended class, eventually concluding the days teachings, it was time he got with spending the rest of his time himself, with confidence.



Johnathan always loved videogames. He would play them day and night to experience his life in another world, for escapism, and the joys they gave him in terms of story, music and character rung a pleasant tune in his head. The pudgy male happily spent time playing a few games like boardgames, videogames and other games with the others in the room and before he even knew it, the three hours had already passed, and Johnathan was on his way, happy.

(Because of his compatible arcane being Devil, Johnathan gains + 2 arcana points, and puts them toward the devil arcana.)



After leaving his club, John decided to go get changed and dress up appropriately for going out. Despite him being shy, he wanted to show a little more confidence and set out to the lower downtown district to the Cafe, to get a bit of reading and writing done. Johnathan confidently headed to the cafe, and sat there a while, four hours in fact, simply reading a book he had in his possession about the tale of a pink alligator. The words on every page had his eyes leashed to them, and couldn't pull away, having four cups of tea as he sat there, dreaming and enjoying as the cafe got ever so darker, but lit up with cool, loving lights, staying there until the staff allowed him to leave. Noticing the time, Johnathan apologized and left, paying his bill of 1200 yen, he left and returned to his dorm room to go to bed, however the experiences he felt during that day grew something within him... a new power.

(0.5 X 4 = + 2 arcana points put toward devil = 4 points allowing him to rank up to Rank 1 devil, putting him back to 0 points rank 1, I assume. will edit later after I ask about the devil arcana persona)

-----------------------

0 hours left - waiting for next day
2800 yen
RANK 1 devil - 0 points
Rank 0 Hanged man - 0 points
Rank 0 Death - 0 points
cafe - 4/10 for next skill upgrade