*A Primarina wanders by, eventually catching sight of Kaz. She pushes through the crowd, muttering quick apologies, and approaches the man.* There you are. I was wondering when I would see you again.

*Tatsu walks up to the young man, having already been asked to come out here earlier* So then... Time to get this show on the road Kaz? *He glances down at the notebook, obviously interested in it. Though lacking the time for proper study much to his chagrin* Sounds like a good time though right? See some crazy stuff maybe save some people... Well regardless, let's do this. *Tatsuya's usual smirk is replaced with a look of quiet determination, leaning back against a light pole as he waits for this little "event" to begin.*

*A nondescript man runs by the area, panicking and pushing pedestrians out of the way. Suddenly, he seems to be tripped up by something below him, and he falls harshly to the ground. A man with a black cloak quickly dashes forward, and slams his foot into the small of his back. The man in black is none other than Raidou Kuzunoha, who ties the man's hands together with some sort of wiring, and takes his foot off of him. A poltergeist rises from the ground, giggling at the man it had just caused to trip. Raidou sighs, wiping sweat off of his face, and noticing Kazuya sitting on the bench right across from him. The summoner waves to his junior with a smile, and Gouto reveals himself from behind his partner's leg.] "Oh, hey there kid. What brings you here, eh? Fate sure is weird, making us bump into each other like this. How ya doing? Haven't seen you since the incident a while back if memory serves."

Prima, Tatsu...you are here. [He looks down with sadness and rubs the back of his head.] Are you sure about this? I can tell you guys that things get worse from here onwards, this "game" has special rules everytime. Who knows what will happen anymore. [He then turns to Raidou who just got here. Kazuya laughs at the scene, relaxing a bit.] Well...I've been doing fine, but I can't deny this entire "game" I'm in has made me feel a constant feeling of anxiety.

*Primarina hesitates, remembering the events of "last game," but nods anyway.* Since I've already started participating, I can't exactly back out now. I'm ready for whatever might come to pass.

*Raidou glances down at the man he just tied up, who is blubbering about something something "It was all me" or whatever. The detective shrugs, ties his hands to a nearby light post, and gives Kazuya a thumbs up. Gouto nods along with his partner.* "We've come this far, no way are we letting you have all the fun. Ready when you are kid."

You think I'd even consider backing down? Please Kazuya you should know me better by now... I stick by my friends to the end, glorious or bitter. *A tired look crosses his face... In spite of that though it's obvious to anyone looking. Tatsuya Suou isn't going to quit till he's dead*

Thanks guys...! [Kazuya nods with a smile at his friends. He then looks up into the sky.] You have to know now, what you're getting yourselves into. This “game” is a bet, of sorts. To defy the Great Will. [He sighs and stands up, looking at them with serious eyes.] This world you’ve been visiting, it’s not…artificial, or manmade. It’s different; it’s real but separate from my own. I learned how some worlds inside the multiverse are connected by a…special web, and this one called the “Amala Network”, as Melbourne calls it. In it, countless versions of my own reality exist, as well as many different possibilities. Raidou’s world, Tatsuya’s and even Yu’s. I have no idea what is it that connects them exactly, but they exist in the same “region” you could say. It's...really difficult to explain.

So... it's similar in concept to the Nexus, yet different... *She thinks for a moment* It's multiple possibilities of one world, then... *It's still confusing, but the best way she can think of it*

*Raidou perks up at the mention of "Amala", and he and Gouto share a glance. Raidou almost seems to say want to say something, but his lips stay shut.*

The Amala Network? Man it's been a long time since I've heard that name... Tamaki mentioned it once though, never had any luck in researching it myself. *He grins at Kazuya, always willing to disregard the will of yet another stupid god* And if it's some godly bet count me in even more, I've seen enough of those to know that leaving it be isn't a solution.

No Tatsuya, the Great Will is not something one takes lightly, because... [Kazuya reads the notebook, written in the language of the demons.] Melbourne told me, and even showed me the different possibilities of my own reality, and…the world always perishes, the ICBMs are always launched and humanity slowly disappears in the fires of destruction and chaos, until 30 years later, the end is decided by me, and my friends. My world is trapped within three possibilities written long ago by the Great Will itself; nothing has been able to change, no matter if my mother lives, or even if I die. But you…you are unforeseen factors. You shouldn’t exist in that reality, but yet, you do. Your appearance could potentially open a myriad of new possibilities for this world. This is the bet, if this sudden addition will finally change the accursed fate of my limited "possibility".

So we're fighting against something as set in stone as Arceus himself... *Prima slowly nods.* But I suppose the smallest things can make a difference. We may be able to change this... and I'd be glad to help try.

*Raidou's expression hardens, and Gouto speaks for him.* Hey, fixing the world is great and all; and sure we would love to assist, but we have our experience with time travelers. It's never cut and dry, so we need to consider the ramifications of what going back in time will mean. Hell, who's to say we can trust that Melbourne bastard in the first place?"

I...have an idea of Melbourne's motivations with this, and they are really ambiguous. To tell you the truth, I choose to trust him because I, too...want my "world" to get a chance at salvation. It will not erase my already existing native reality or others, but if you guys succeed, then it will be the one and only world that got a shot at peace. [The young man clenches his fists.] This is a selfish request, but please show me it's possible to save them from this unfair destiny! [Kazuya pushes a button on his COMP and the world around them quickly disappears, they are inside a black void with a white portal in front of them.] The “contract” does not allow me to tell you more, but please, go forward! [Beyond the white portal, a deteriorated hall can be seen with a wooden door at the end of it. Eyes of different shapes and sizes are plastered on the walls, looking at their very souls, judging them. Prima appears to have gained a yellow aura, while Raidou has a white one with a small tint of yellow. Tatsuya, on the other hand, has a completely white aura.]

*Tatsuya simply stands up from the pole, the look on his face showing he's clearly ready to tackle whatever is tossed at the team. One way or another, he's going to make sure this future changes*

*Prima looks down at the aura around her body. She has a more yellow glow than Raidou... maybe because of the "angel"? She shakes her head and approaches the door, preparing to enter... once someone opens it for her. Flippers aren't very convenient.*

*Tatsu looks at the door, carefully opening it. A quick glance around the side to check for anything. Not to mention looking over the thing before he opens it. Whatever the white means, he's more concerned with safety at the moment*

*Raidou looks around at the void, and observes his own hand and aura, a seemingly vacant look in his eyes. He walks toward the hall, with Gouto following.* "That little...whatever. His heart's in the right place. Let's go everyone."

[It seems it is possible to go through the door, but on the other side nothing but an endless void of white makes itself present.]

*Tatsu sets a foot down on the void, testing to see if this will kill anyone that tries to go in, obviously if his foot starts to down he simply pulls it back up and tries something else* I'll go First I guess guys...

*Raidou nods, and sarcastically gives him a "Go ahead" motion with his hand.*

*Somebody say door? Yes? No? Well too bad! The Kool Aid man will walk through it! Slamming into the void is the giant pitcher of liquid known as kool aid, which is made by an unknown technique only known to a few people

*Tatsu says fuck it and simply walks the door*

OOC: Through the door.

*Prima stares in shock at the strange red pitcher man, then cautiously reaches out into the void*

*Raidou follows his companions and the glorious red man inside.*

"So long, juicy man of red magic." [As they step through, their bodies change, as usual. Prime turns into a human, and all of them look like 17/18 year old, wearing a high school uniform. Around them, they are able to see students talking to each other, relaxing and passing the time with no teacher on sight. Some of them are eating boxed lunches, it’s lunchtime it seems. Sitting at the front row they are able to see Kazuya talking excitedly to a girl of long, brown hair while mostly. And right outside the classroom, through a window, they can see a girl just a little bit older than the other students. It was Yuriko, and has a faint purple aura around her. She keeps staring at the girl with brown hair with a nasty look while a girl with glasses and short hair of similar age makes fun of her.] “Soon, this world will fall on the abyss of despair. Unknown to most, humanity is already sinking.” [A voice gentle as an angel and sinister as a demon speaks. No one appears to react at the words Melbourne just spoke.] “I wonder if fate can be rewritten.” [They are also free to leave the classroom, as the door is wide open.]

*Prima walks up to the window and looks out. A purple aura again... Three colors: yellow, white, and purple. Yellow and purple, she guessed, were opposites. White was more neutral. She'd have to pay more attention to these auras from now on... She attempts to get a closer look at what's going on out there, although the window kind of limits that.*

*Tatsu stares out the window for a moment, nodding his head at the seal... One wonders how he knows she's thinking about the colors. After this exchange he begins walking out the door to try and find Kazuya, perhaps investigation into areas the demons were known to appear. Before they do so, might lead to something? At any rate... No telling if Kaz knows tell he talks to him*

*Raidou stands up, stealing a glance at Kazuya and the girl he's speaking with. He leaves through the agape door, hoping to have a word with Yuriko.*

[As Prima looks out the window leading to the hallway, she can get a better look at Yuriko and the girl with glasses. They appear to be discussing something but from here, Prima can't quite tell what they are saying. Maybe if the window was opened...?] ----- [Tatsuya leaves the classroom and see in front of him a long, horizontal hallway, many students are walking from one place to another and some stand there, talking. There are two ways, one to the left and another to the right. The classroom he left appears to be on the second floor, class 2-A.] ---- [Raidou, too, leaves the classroom but decided to go directly towards Yuriko. The girl notices the Kuzunoha and waves at him.] Yuriko: "If it isn't Raidou, it's been a while since the last time we talked, hasn't it?" [She giggles and the girl with glasses blushes, trying to hide behind the older student.] Yuriko: "Oh? You don't have to be so shy, Ryoko~" Ryoko: "Y-Yeah but...!"

*If Raidou's already with Yuriko and the girl, then Prima probably doesn't need to listen in. She can leave them to him. Now, to explore... she steps outside and turns right, looking around at the other students as she strolls down the hall*

*Raidou flashes Yuriko a grin, and tips his hat a bit at the shy girl hiding from him. He points at Kazuya and the girl with brown hair through the window with his thumb and tilts his head, as if to ask what the deal is.*

*Tatsu goes down the right path searching for stairs leading down, it's too bad this isn't his actual highschool. Along the way he tries to keep an eye and ear out for anything abnormal... Anything demonic really*

[Surprisingly, Prima and Tatsuya take the right path. Prima stays on the same floor while Tatsuya goes downstairs. Not much is there though, mostly students talking about casual stuff.] Student: "Have you heard about those strange rumors about the Inokashira park?" [Is what Tatsuya is able to hear from one of the groups he was passing by.] Student: "People are blaming the many disappearances on demons and ghosts, can you believe this crap?" Student2: "I know, right?" [While Prima makes her way towards the faculty office of the second floor. Some teachers are talking on the other side of the door, and the only words she is able to make out are "students" and "disappearance".] ---------------- [The shy girl, Ryoko hides her face with both hands while Yuriko pats her on the shoulder.] Yuriko: "That girl Kazuya is talking to, Yuka, I don't like her at all, ever since she joined the school five years ago." [Yuriko gives the girl inside the classroom another glare before turning to Raidou once more with a sly smile.] Yuriko: "But let's not talk about that asshole, and let's talk about...this girl, who admires you VERY much, you know?" [Yuriko gestures to Ryoko. The poor girls just blushes even more, dying of embarrassment]

*Prima pauses in front of the door, and puts her ear up to it, trying to hear the conversation on the other side. This might relate to the "mission of this round," or it could be just useless chatter. There's only one way to find out.*

*Tatsuya rubs his chin in thought, the chatter does set off alarm bells certainly, in spite of that however he's not sure if rushing off is the best idea here. Instead Tatsu walks to the school exit, waiting for the rest of the group deliver these findings... And listening in on passerbys as he leans against the wall*

[As Prima presses her ear to the door, she can hear the teacher speak more clearly.] Male Teacher: "So it's true, all of the students disappeared around both the Echo Building, which should be abandoned, and the Inokashira Park." Female Teacher: "Yeah, that's what the police were saying, so it might be a good idea to warn the students that it's dangerous around those areas. It's been 9 students already." Male Teacher: "What's worse is that there are not even more clues beyond the last place they were seen or known to be. Not to mention people are disappearing in similar ways all around Tokyo...it's kind of scary, what is going on...?" Female Teacher: "We should just tell them to go straight to home after school is over, let's hope nothing else happens..." ----------- [Tatsuya decides to stay near the exit and hear what the students say. "Inokashira Park", "Echo Building", "Demons", "End of the world", "Conspiracy". The teen with the heart of a 38 year old hears many different words that stem from many rumors and myths. urban legends.] Student: "My father is a military, and yesterday he told me that large numbers of American soldiers are coming to the country, and even the Japanese army is getting ready for something." Student2: "That DOES sound suspicious. A little too much." Student: "One would think that after the Cold War this kind of thing wouldn't happen again but..." [The tone of the students in general is pessimistic.]

*Raidou can't help but be flustered at the sudden change of subject, and scratches his cheek in embarrassment. He rebounds quickly enough though, and tries to laugh off the awkwardness.*

*The Echo Building and Inokashira Park. Two places that they could check out... although the "disappearing" part worries her... She heads down the stairs and searches for Tatsuya. The talk of demons floating around in the halls also catches her attention... Perhaps those creatures are behind it?*

*Tatsu spots Prim walking around, calling the girl over and speaking to her in a hushed tone... Assuming she actually walked over* You hearing this stuff... Echo Building Inokashira Park, the US Army. Tch, good thing these demons can't bring rumor to life. Anyways we gotta gather up Raidou an start looking, can't afford to sit around when ICBMs are headed our way.

[Yuriko moves to the side and pushes the shy girl in front of Raidou, making sure she doesn't run away from the situation. Ryoko, seeing escape is futile, just stands there and waves at Raidou.] Ryoko: "I...I'm Ryoko and I-I know we've never talked before but...I think you're really cool, that hat is a-awesome and your cat is cute..." [Ryoko keeps looking down with her face red as a tomato, while Yuriko gestures to him to say something to the poor girl.] Yuriko: "Now now Ryoko, why don't you ask him to go with us? We're going to go to the Inokashira Park after school and see if these rumored "demons" are actually real or not." [The two girls laugh, but while Yuriko does it with excitement, Ryoko does it with embarrassment.] Yuriko: "They probably aren't, but who knows?" --------- [Prim and Tatsuya have rejoined on the first floor near the exit. It's still lunchtime so it will be a while before they can leave without raising suspicion.]

*Tatsuya walks around looking for Kaz, assuming he find him he says a few words* Oh hey Kaz, so I'm curious man... What do you think of all these rumors floating around? Demons an crap.. Hah how silly right? Demons as if. *It's obvious if one knows him, Tatsu doesn't buy a word he's saying... If anything the man is hoping to get disagreement from Kazuya*

*Prima nods.* That would be best... We leave right after school to do that. Don't want to be picked up by those "police" again. *She begins walking towards the stairs, looking up at the ceiling as she thinks.* What's an ICBM, anyway...?

*Raidou's eyes widen, at the mention of demons. if these girls are planning on going where demons are rumored to be, it's possible they could get dragged into the Dark Realm. Or worse. Even if it could lead to a misunderstanding, he can't take this risk. He nods in response to Yuriko's offer.*

[Prima wonders what an ICBM is, perhaps it means "Incredible Cat Building Mazes"?] ----- [Kazuya and Yuka turn around to face Tatsuya and the two of them laugh.] Yuka: "It's really, REALLY dumb if you ask me, but you know how rumors work. They are dumb but eh...what else can you do?" [Kazuya nods in agreement and then looks at Tatsuya.] Yeah as much as I would like to read about the occult, I'm just glad demons are nothing but a myth. Could you imagine them being real? [Kazuya shudders in a comical way and Yuka just gives him a look of "Seriously". Kazuya then laughs with embarrassment and looks down. The pair laughs at this silly moment.] Yuka: "But what have you been doing, Tatsuya? It's not usual that you leave the classroom." ------ [Ryoko smiles and nods with a blush on her face.] Ryoko: "T-Thanks, I promise we will have fun, Raidou-san!" [Yuriko winks at the pair before taking a step back.] Yuriko: "Oh...! I won't be able to go, I remembered I actually have something else to do this evening! I guess you will have to go alone~! [Yuriko winks once more at Ryoko, and quickly goes away. Ryoko tries to reach out to her but Yuriko is too fast.] Ryoko: "W-Well...just the two of us, a-a-after school..." [Ryoko can't help but hide her own face more. The red is getting to ridiculous levels.]

*Prima shrugs. Maybe that's it. A cat building maze sounds interesting... She's just wondering if there would be meowths or littens when she finds herself in front of the classroom door. She snaps out of her daze and looks around.*

Oh just looking around Yuka... And yeah demons, heh. If they were real it'd be kinda interesting, but... Ya think people would get sick of it? *He raises an eyebrow at the two, trying to play it off as idle curiosity, in reality it's more of an attempt to see what normal people think* Normal life is boring to us, but I think that's in part cause it's normal... Hah I wonder if you'd get so used to fighting monsters that it just becomes another day? *Tatsu chuckles to himself for a moment before grinning at them* Yeah right, I'll just stick to working on my bike thank you very much. As for what I'm doing? Just bored today honestly, even I need something to entertain me.

*Raidou closes his eyes, and pinches the bridge of his nose at Yuriko's antics. He's never been the romantic type, but if it's to protect people he'll do what it takes. He somewhat nervously says he'll meet her then, before shuffling back inside, obviously trying to hide blush of his own.*

[Prima doesn't see much outside of the classroom. Only a blushing girl with glasses and an equally flustered Raidou.] ---- [As Raidou, the awkward devil summoner goes back inside the classroom. He is able to see Tatsuya, Yuka and Kazuya talking.] ---- [Yuka raises an eyebrow at Tatsuya's sudden display of curiosity.] Yuka: "And what go into you all of a sudden? Fighting monsters sound more like an annoyance than fun to me, I can imagine the stress...seriously, and I thought the occultism nerds were Raidou and Kaz, especially Kaz." [Yuka laughs at him and Kazuya blushes, glaring at her with a really dumb expression as he tries to feign anger.] Q-Quiet! You don't have to be so rude out of nowhere, "Miss Takahara". [Kazuya mocks her and Yuka appears really annoyed.] Yuka: "And what did I tell you about calling me that? I told you I don't like it!" [The two just look at each other with a grin and point at eachother, speaking at the same time as they turn to Tatsuya.] Yuka/Kazuya: "Tell her/him to be quiet!" [The pair appears to have a red thread around their pinky fingers, connecting them. They appear to be completely unaware of this.]

*Tatsu shakes his head and sighs at the two, obviously used to this somehow... But also just as put out as the first time* You people... Geez what am I your peacekeeper? *He smirks at them for a moment before walking off* Work it out lovebirds, I'm not here to settle things! *His thoughts drift towards what he knows of these events from Kaz while he walks to his next class, the fact his mother got killed by a demon coming to mind rather quickly... Something about it attacking her at home? That's a tad foggy, perhaps in the mall... Have to work it out*

*Prima smiles a little as she notices Raidou and the girl. It didn't take a detective to guess the gist of what happened. She sits down at her seat, waiting as she listens to the idle chatter around the classroom.*

[Tatsuya leaves while Prima and Raidou stay inside the classroom. Time suddenly stops and fast forwards right in front of their eyes. Their own bodies are moving at extreme speeds but their coinciousness remains unaffected. In just 5 minutes they experience 5 hours, and are now standing at the main entrance of the high school. The experience itself didn't make them suddenly tired, but the desorientation was something else.] Guys, wanna go back home together? [Kazuya is waving at them while Yuka is standing right besides him. And close to them Ryoko is standing, waiting for Raidou to get closer so they can go to their "date". The shy girl timidly waves at Raidou and looks away with a blush on her cheeks.]

*It takes a moment for Prima to get her senses in order. She shakes her head to fight off the dizziness.* *The park seems like a good place to go, due to all those rumors... As much as she'd like to walk home with Kazuya, the things she'd heard at school are bugging her too much to ignore that place.* I actually have somewhere to go at the moment... But I'll be sure to come along tomorrow! *Prima waves at them and wanders off, hopefully running into someone along the way that can tell her where the park even is*

*Tatsu nods at Kaz, his hand in his pockets as the man considers exactly when these demons are going to show up... To realize he hasn't a clue* Sure Kaz I'll come, can't leave you guys alone with spooky demons out right!? *While his expression shows humor outwardly, inside his words are dead serious as a small flame grows in his left hand. The magic flowing for a moment just to make sure it still can. Regardless of that, Tatsuya's goal is clear for now. Try to keep Kazuya's mother alive if possible*

*Raidou smiles at Kazuya apologetically, and says he actually has plans. He tells him to go on ahead, and stays at the gate. he doesn't go directly over to Ryoko, since it seemed there was something between them that he'd rather not stir up.*

[As Prima wanders off, she is not able to find much more than a cop walking close by. He didn't seem to be doing much right now.] --------- [As Tatsuya walks towards the duo of young ones, his attempt at using fire magic results successful, but it takes a lot more effort that it did before, resulting in minuscule flames that not even Tatsuya was able to notice easily, this is perhaps similar to his younger, more inexperienced days as a Persona user.] Yuka: "We were thinking that maybe we should go to the "Arcade Mall" next to where we live and drink a coffee or something? maybe some sweets? You like those Tatsuya?" [They begin to walk towards the Arcade Mall.] ------------ [Ryoko looks down for a moment and makes a shy gesture for Raidou to follow her to the park.] Ryoko: “S-So…Raidou, I’ve always wondered what kind of things do you like?” [She looks towards him with a gentle smile, doing her best to not look directly at him or make him feel uncomfortable.]

*Raidou quickly follows her after making sure Kazuya and co. had turned their backs. He rubs the back of his head, not really sure how to carry this conversation. Remembering who her friend is, he mentions that he likes the occult, and that's how he ended up meeting Yuriko.*

Excuse me, sir. *Prima walks up to the cop, thankful to have a possible guide* Do you know the way to Inokashira Park?

A mall eh? Not my usual style but sure... As for sweets I'm not really too picky about food Yuka! I'll eat anything long as it's good... Just don't ever use chocolate in curry or something. *Tatsuya shudders as the thought of food brings up memory of mystery food X... Yu's tales left an impression*

[The conversation goes one as they make their way towards the park. Ryoko nods with a smile.] Ryoko: "I see...I don't quite get the appeal but...if you like it doesn't have to be so bad...!" [She blushes.] Ryoko: "I don't like it much...and well, I'm going to the park just to prove Yuriko demons aren't real, she even turned it into a bet if I didn't come here...but it's not so bad, I got to talk t-to you...!" [They are getting closer and closer to the infamous park. Raidou can feel a strange pressure coming from it.] -------- [The cop looks at Prima with a gentle smile.] Cop: "Of course, just walk to the end of this street and then turn right, you can't miss it." [The cop's walkie talkie then rings for a moment and the cop answers it.] Cop: "Officer Yamauchi here, over....understood, I'll be going now, over." [The cop has a strange look on his face as he walks away fast, without even saying good bye to Prima.] ------ Chocolate? Why would anyone add chocolate to a curry? [The pair of teens laugh at the stupidity of the idea as the keep walking forward. The streets are mostly empty, which is unusual at this time of the day. And some police cars quickly past by the group in the streets right to their side.] Yuka: "Did something happen? I hope it wasn't anything too bad." [They get to the Mall after just a few minutes of walking, and they step inside. Tatsuya can see the cafe right in front of him, but he can also see two different paths, one pretty normal, but another with a terrible pressure coming from it, especifically coming from behind on of the stores. The pressure was massive, similar to the most powerful being Tatsuya has ever faced before.]

*Prima stares at the cop for a moment, then waves and runs off. Something big is happening today. Even the adults are on edge... She makes a right and runs towards the park, that dread continuing to build*

Actually... I think I'll go check something out, see ya soon! *Tatsuya walks down the other path. This power... So very close to Philemon, if he's lucky they're as inclined to help mankind as Philemon along with being as strong.*

*Raidou turns his head and covers his mouth at the admittedly adorable compliment. Mr. Smooth attempts to play it off as a cough, though. He suddenly perks up, feeling more and more dread as they get closer, but he tries to hide it.*

[Both Prima and Raidou have made it to the park, although from different sides. There is an incessant feeling of dread, a powerful pressure coming from everywhere.] Ryoko: "C'mon Raidou, let's go to the pond!" [Ryoko takes Raidou's hand in a moment of sudden bravery and takes him to a nearby pond where small ducks swim around without a care.] ----- [Prima, on the other hand, has found herself all alone in the eternal green of the park. But there IS someone else. Standing just a jew meters away, a man with long brown hair and a red jacket is standing, looking around frantically with a strange tool on his hand.] ???: "I am not afraid of you...show yourself!" ---- [As Tatsuya makes a quick turn towards the incomprehensible force, he can see a man. He is sitting in a wheelchair with his legs crossed. His hair is white, and skin pale with nothing out of the ordinary, not even his glasses.] ???: "You must be the Tatsuya Suou I've heard so much about, I'm delighted I was able to meet you after all. I never expected to meet you in a world so different from your own." [The man points gently at himself.] Stephen: "I am Stephen, it's my pleasure."

*Prima cautiously steps forward, glancing around in case anything else is nearby.* Um... are you alright? *She'd normally dismiss the man as crazy, but the pressure makes it a bit hard to doubt the seriousness of this...*

*The act of a... Semi normal school student falls apart in an instant, his eyes dart over the man in search of weapons as he attempts to figure out the nature of this power. In spite of that however? Stephen gives Tatsu a good feeling and he smiles slightly* Stephen... I think Kaz mentioned you once, something about making the COMPs? Well anyways nice to meet you too, so... You know what's going on here then? *The look on his face turns dead serious as he quickly becomes all business* If you don't mind I'd like to ask a few things, when are the demons coming? Where and when were the nukes launched? And why is there any fast way to restore the power of my Persona... No, the Personas are there. My body is the problem right now, no quick fix for it so nevermind. Lastly... Why exactly do you know so much about me? *The questions are rapid and Tatsu looks a bit winded by the time he's done, obviously this man is used to asking beings of incompressible power things on short notice*

*Raidou blushes furiously, and gets dragged along to wherever she may wish.*

[The young man turns around and takes a good look at Prima before sighing with relief. Taking a closer look, the stranger was holding a machete.] ???: "I'm sorry, it's just that something strange was running around and tried to attack me with this machete and I managed to avoid it and I'm here holding my place and..." [The young man is talking fast, clearly shocked by what was happening.] Yuji: "I'm sorry, my name is Yuji and I just need a moment to calm down, a lot has been happening..." [The young man lowers his weapon and talks more slowly.] ------ [The man chuckles] Stephen: "Yes, while I was the creator of the Demon Summoning Program, I did not invent the COMP. Now then...demons have always been here, just not in this scale. And the nukes...I'm sorry, I can't quite tell you, but I can confirm it will happen sometime the next week." [The man stays quit as he shifts his legs, making himself more comfy.] Stephen: "Lastly, the reason you can't use your Persona properly is because of the lack of Collective Consciousness in this reality. No, it's there, but now that the Abyss, or Expanse has been unleashed, the link is weak." [The man just stays quiet with a smile, not answering Tatsuya's final question.] ------- [Ryoko smiles at him and makes him sit by the pond. For a moment, Raidou is able to forget the opressive feeling that this place gives. It quickly comesback as a faint shadow moves under the water. The ducks quickly swim away.] Ryoko: "I want to know more about you, please Raidou, I've been waiting a long time for this but never had the courage to do it, so please, maybe if we know each other..." [Police car sirens can be heard in the distance, and slowly approaching.]

I see... Well I'll ask this before I take my leave, how did you distribute the Summoning Program? I believe a friend of mine will need one very soon. So I guess I should get a COMP today huh? *Tatsu smirks at Stephen. Waiting to hear the man's final answer before he walks off with a wave, ready to rejoin Kaz and Yuka if they're still around*

*Prima gives the man a gentle smile, although she's still a bit confused.* It's fine. Just take your time. Anyway, I might as well introduce myself, too. You can call me Prima. *She looks around again, then turns her attention back to Yuji.* What exactly happened, anyway? And are you hurt?

*Raidou perks up at the shadow, and watches it intently. He snaps back to reality for a moment, and turns to Ryoko. he looks at her face, before shaking his head and turning away. "I'm an outsider here" he says in his head, trying to tell himself that everything here should be considered impermanent.*

[As soon as Tatsuya turns around, the massive force is gone. Stephen was not there anymore. As the man makes his way to the cafe, Yuka and Kazuya greet him with confused looks.] And what were you doing? Seriously, Tatsuya, you've been acting really weird today... [Yuka laughs.] Yuka: "Probably just boy stuff." ----- Yuji: "I'm okay, Prima, thank you...I was going to meet with my girlfriend Yuka here, but she is nowhere around, and then I saw a man running away from something..." [Yuji sits on the grass for a moment.] Yuji: "The man was yelling something about demons and what not, I tried to approach him and as soon as I do, his entire body was being burned, scaring the people away. I was too shocked and fell to the ground, and that's when I saw it." [Yuji takes a look at his machete.] Yuji: "A strange creature jumped at me with this and tried to stab me with this machete, I managed to move away and take it from him, stabbing it immediately...but before I noticed I was surrounded by those creatures and got desperate and slashed all around and...I'm here now..." [He sighs, his face is pale.] Yuji: "They may have run off to the pond...I don't know anymore, I just need time to think and understand everything I saw..." [Suddenly, a bunch of policemen surround the pair and quickly move in, taking Yuji into custody by knocking him out.] Cop: "You are safe now, miss. We got some reports of this murderous bastard burning someone alive. We will take him away now." [They drag him away and get him in a strange car, clearly not from the police.]

Ryoko: "Outsider? It does sound like it...your name is not very common, even your style make you look so unique..." [Ryoko giggles with some curiosity as she reaches out to the cap.] Ryoko: "L-Let me see it, I've always liked...!" [Time appears to slow down for Raidou as a shadow jumps out of the water, directly at Ryoko. It's a small creature with skinny legs and arms, a Preta. Whatever it is he might do, he better do it now.]

*Raidou immediately recognizes the creature, and kicks into Devil Summoner mode. He puts protecting Ryoko at all costs; and tackles her to the ground, hoping to roll along the grass to put some distance between the two of them and the new threat.*

W-wait... *Prima falls silent, not able to do much other than watch. Why did-* Right. People think demons aren't real here... and the car those humans entered... It certainly wasn't... *She exits the park and tries to follow the car, but she soon finds herself both off its trail and completely lost...* ooc: and with that, I must slep

Heh boy stuff... Something like that, well there is this one girl on my mind, she's not at school though you guys wouldn't know her. *He chuckles for a moment and grins at the two, his act might not be the best, but he'll keep it up regardless.* Anyways I gotta grab something before I head home, see ya later lovebirds! *Tatsu walks off into the mall, a smirk on his face as he searches for a store selling COMPs. Assuming he's able to gets not one but two, one for Prim. But also Raidou as well, no telling if the detective's usual tubes will be available after all*

[Prima (Due to OOC reasons cuz sleepy times) ends up back in the Nexus, safe from any other threat.] ----------- [Raidou was quick enough and has managed to save Ryoko from a surprise attack by the demon. He rolls aroudn the grass and has manages to put some distance between himself, Ryoko, and the Preta. The demon shows clear signs of rage at Raidou for interfering and lunges at him] Ryoko: "W-What is going on...!? R-Raidou, look out!" -------- [Tatsuya successfully ditched the pair and is now looking for a computer store. Luckily he finds one and is able to take a look at the model Kazuya has around his wrist, even now as a high schooler. The price though... 200K yen, there is no way Tatsuya had so much on him right now.]

*Raidou stands up, crosses his arms and holds both of his forearms in front of his face, defensively. He also steps in front of Ryoko, putting himself in between her and the demon.*

*In his limitless wisdom... Tatsu decides to put his skills to use, by leaving the building with a muttered curse. Instead looking around the area for anything else out of place one last time, before heading home for the day. Maybe he can get some more cash somehow... Maybe sell his bike if he's got the time*

[The demon hits Raidou, but didn't even managed to do much damage due to his defensive stance. Understanding this, the demon pulls out a machete from his back and decided that the best course of action here would be to run and stab him.] ------ [Strangely enough, now that Tatsuya is outside, cops are everywhere and telling people to go back home due to strange circumstances, and the sun itself is starting to set.]

*Raidou notices the demons weapon, and charges it, aiming a kick at it's exposed gut. He hopes to catch it off-guard, as he does he turns to Ryoko and barks at her to find him a stick or something to fight with.*

*Tatsuya sighs and with a scowl on his face goes back home, wondering if he'll be able to get any cash.... Or for that matter who might even be at the house*

[Raidou was simply faster, the kick connects before the Preta can even react to it and drops the machete. Ryoko, in a sudden moment of courage runs forward and grabs the machete as the Preta stands up, throwing it at Raidou, hoping he will catch it.] Ryoko: "H-heads up!" ---- [As Tatsuya decides to go home, in the blink of an eye he suddenly finds himself in a white void once more, It has nothing but a door, and a small tv with the power on, but not displaying anything on the channel it's in.]

*Raidou grabs it midair, and points the blade right at the demon's neck. He steels himself, and screams:* YOU'RE EITHER MY ALLY, OR YOU'RE DEAD. TAKE YOUR PICK!

[The demon looks at Raidou with absolute terror and, somehow, manages to break away from Raidou's graps and runs away to places unknown. Ryoko is liying on the grass with a pale face, still looking at Raidou with teary eyes.] Ryoko: "W...What was...?" [The girl jumps at Raidou and cries her poor heart out.] Ryoko: "T-T-Thank you, Raidou...!" [It seems like she can't stop.]

*Raidou considers giving chase, and hell, he almost does. He stops to see Ryoko, and decides against it. He stands next to her, and kneels down, and grabs her shoulder reassuringly.* Can you stand?

[The poor girl slowly stands up and, wiping her tears away. She nods still not looking at him.] Ryoko: "Thanks you, if it weren't for you being here I would've..."

*Raidou nods, and offers to take her home so her folks know she's safe.*

[Ryoko nods silently and holds his arm tightly. And as soon as she does, Raidou finds himself in a white room with nothing but a door, and a TV, the same room Tatsuya got himself into.]

*Raidou looks around, shocked at the sudden change in scenery. Gouto pokes his head out of the bag on his back, and does the same.* Looks like we're done with the "game" for now. Not bad out there, Mr. Smooth. Lookin' to pass on the Kuzunoha blood are we? *Raidou responds to the jab by lightly bopping the cat on the head, and crouching down to turn the TV on.*

*Tatsu stares at the TV intently, hopefully some place this weird will have some new information* Pass on the blood... Hah seriously!? Geez Raidou didn't take you for a ladies man or something.

*Raidou shoots his comrade a quick glare before turning back to the TV. He flips the switch into the "on" position, and sits back expectantly.*

[As the TV turns on, the see a really hazy labyrinth. A door stops progress as it asks for a name. "Kazuya" is what the screen types and it keeps going. It then fiends a man on a cross, "Yuji". A man being stomped by a demon, "Takeshi". Then an attractive girl saying that she will always be by "his" side, Yuriko.] "Inevitable." [The screen moves towards a cafe and then to the back of a nearby store. A pixelated man then gets his throat torned, as familiar demon appears. It almost seemed as it was looking at a certain someone outside the screen. The text says it attacked the "Player" and then ran away. The "Player" got a combat knife.] "It is simply fate making itself present." [There are no pixels anymore, but animation. A young man with brown hair and a green shirt walks around a bizarre, hazy labyrinth with a young man of long hair and a red jacket, and another with a camo longcoat and glasses. After walking for a bit the stumble upon a sacrifice, and after calling out the name "Yuka", the ceremony stops and the young man of green shirt wakes up in his bed.] "You cannot erase what was set in stone." [The young man is now talking to an old man, just before finding himself inside a building, fighting against a powerful demon alongside the men from his strange dreams. They lose.] "One can only destroy, not overwrite." [It was only a vision, and now the image is as real as it gets. The room itself gets filled with static and and part of it just cracks. Kazuya is walking back towards his own home, but a group of policemen were waiting for him.] "But to write again, one doesn't need to destroy, but erase and write once more."

[The room is now gone and the pair of teens are a few meters away from the group of policemen taking away the unconscious Kazuya into a strange car. Behind the teen, a door leading to their own world lies, and in front of them, there are a few police officers talking to some civillians. But there is one policeman in particular that has a red aura surrounding him, he speaks to another cop before heading inside Kazuya's home.] "I do wonder, what will happen?" [Melbourne stops talking to them, as they now face a simple choice. Tatsuya has no weapon, but can cast low to medium fire, and Raidou finds the machete he got from the Preta hidden under his shirt.]

*The first thing Raidou notices is the thing going inside. Pulling his machete out, he stashes it in a nearby trashcan, making sure Tatsuya can see. He then makes clear space between the two, hoping to make it look like they don't know each other, even going so far as to ditch his uniform's overshirt in that same trashcan to hopefully help sell the illusion. He calls out in a shaky, seemingly panicked voice:* H-help! There's m-monsters or something over at the storefront back here. People are hurt!

*He walks up to the cops with a confused look on his face, acting as though he lives here and is worried about the home* Excuse me officers is something the matter? I had to go out and run some errands for my mother... Oh God did something happen? I hope not, *he shivers a bit* all these things going on, it's got me spooked you understand I'm sure. *After his little spot of acting and In light of the cop's distraction Tatsuya darts into the home, though not before checking to see if they're occupied enough he could grab the blade first, assuming it looks safe he does so. Otherwise? He'll just go straight for the house*

[Most of the cops are quick to move into action after Raidou talks about monsters, they not even notice Tatsuya moving around the place. The cops make their way to where Raidou was and surrond him, looking around.] Cop: "Where are they and how did they look, kid?" [One of the cops ask.] ---- [Tatsuya successfully made it inside the house and can see how a the shap of the policeman quickly breaks, revealing a shapeless, hideous beast facing an open door. It hasn't noticed Tatsuya at all.] ???: "Finally...! Humans lately have been so wary that it's not as easy as it once was." Mom: "What…?" ???: "I’ll send you someplace where you won’t have these worries anymore." Mom: "N-No...Kazuya...!" [The beast begins moving forward, slowly taking a new shape.]

*Tatsu points machete at the beast, opting for a different approach than usual* Yo there Mr Demon, care to talk with me for a bit? I'm sure we can work this out without having to kill each other right? *He raises an eyebrow at the beast, small flames forming on the blade as he watches it with a wary look, clearly Tatsuya is prepared to strike as he moves a bit closer. Showing not even the slightest hint of fear. If it tries to move for the woman... Well he should be close enough by then*

*Raidou drops to his knees, in a fetal position. He mutters something about a storefront not far from here, and blood. Lots of blood.*

Amanojaku: "You dare interfere with the great Amanojaku, child? It doesn't matter, I will just eat you first!" [The beast has a more defined shape now. It has two red eyes and long, blond hair. It covers his face and has a very slender and tall appearance. One long horn is on his head.] Amanojaku: "Die, scum!" [The demon shoots powerful streams of wind towards Tatsuya, attempting to send him flying towards a wall.] ----- [The cop nods and makes a fast gesture, making everyone move out immediately. The cop soon follows as he informs more cops about the situation through a walkie talkie. Now Raidou is all alone.]

*Raidou pats himself on the back for the performance, before realizing that he's most assuredly on a time limit now and rushing into the house to regroup with Tatsuya.*

*The winds send him back a bit, but Tatsu's blade stabs into a nearby wall, obviously he was expecting an attack of some sort here. Sadly the flames on his machete go to waste simply burning the plaster a bit* Yeah you bastard I dare interfere with you... If you aren't open to negotiations then fine I'll just have to go to work! *A blast of fire gathers up in his left hand as he tears the blade from the wall, rather than simply tossing it from afar he tries to close in on the demon. Aiming to send the largest inferno he can conjure up right at it's face from close range*

[As Raidou joins the party, Tatsuya is able to attack with an inferno is decent power, Agilao. The demons takes the full hit.] Amanojaku: "Shit, fire...! You won't get your way so easily!" [The demon charges powerful spell that surround the his two enemies, lowering their attack power. Matarunda.After this, the demons kneels down and waits. as if it was preparing for something.]

*Tatsuya tosses the blade to Raidou, obviously the one with no magic needs it more here, afterwards he somewhat foolishly charges the beast, rasing his leg up as it bursts into flames, hopefully smashing into the beast's skull with a burning kick* Get away? You think a demon Hunter and a Kuzunoha are trying to get away?! Hah yeah right pal, your life is already over ya just don't know it yet!

*Raidou catches the blade, and rushes alongside Tatsuya. He hopes to follow up his ally's kick with a horizontal slash at the demon's stomach.*

[The demon takes the hit but doesn't seem like he recieved much damage. The demon then gives him a sick grin, taking hold of his leg and then placing its hand on Tatsuya's torso, leaving a magical crest. It was Makajama, now Tatsuya's magic has been sealed for two turns.] Amanojaku: "What can you even do without fire? Pathetic hum-...!" [The demon has his mouth shut by a well placed slash courtesy of Raidou. He takes a few steps and Amanojaku is trying to slowly move into the room where Kazuya's mother is.]

What can I do without magic... *The man simply forgoes his using magic and fancy weapons, instead opting to slam his right knee into the things back, before turning his leg down to it's left leg joint, trying to halt the creature's movements with a vicious kick* I can still bash away at, I can still just keep going till you or we die that's what you sorry fuck! *Even without his using tricks Tatsu is still the same as always, fighting straight to the bitter end without a second thought*

*With Tatsuya playing that offense, Raidou runs ahead of both of them to help the defenseless woman to safety.*

[The demons falls down due to Tatsuya's movement, and tries to break away but is completely unable to move or do much.] Amanojaku: "I-I haven't eaten anything today, I'm weak...!" [The demon takes Tatsuya off of him with a simple Garula. The demon then makes a run for it towards Kazuya's mother, opening a gigantic mouth and ready to devour her and Raidou alike in one move.]

*Raidou spins the blade in his hand, turning it to a backhanded position, and rushes the demon at an angle that isn't entirely out of it's path, but a bit offset. He has the blade out as he runs, hoping to cut the bastard's jaw clean off from the inside out.*

*After being knocked down for a moment by the winds he springs up, tired from all the effort but not too badly hurt yet* Oh hell no you bastard! I'm not letting you hurt anyone dammit! *Tatsuya rushes at the thing as fast as he can, trying to leap onto it's back and begin smashing his fists into it's head over and over, hopefully Raidou's plan keeps it busy long enough*

[The fast movement done by Raidou was enough for the demonr to fall, withot any glory or honor. The creature itself vanishes as they go back to the white room with a door opened, leading back to the real world.] --- OOC: Too tired, gn I'm dead.