The Nexus has no middle, it's ever expanding.

*Yu walks up to the scene with a serious look on his face. It seems he is not amused in the least.* You... You're the one who took Aitome! *Yu pulls out his blade and points it at the man.* Where are they?

*Wanders up as well, almost like she were following Yu* So, this the guy, huh?

Ah, its you, the silver haired one, if you really want to know where he is, you'll have to get through the tower, it's only has 3 rooms and a roof so it should be easy for you right? *The man then smiles sinisterly, turning to face Yu and Laharl And who might you be?

I'm the overlord. Does this tower belong to you? If it does, i'm afraid i'm gonna need to see the proper permits to have this tower here.

*A girl looks over to the tower from a distance* Geez what is this place... I guess I should get involved... If only because I might help someone! *A grim look of determination crosses her face as the girls clothes burst into light being replaced by her Magical Girl uniform. A pistol appears from the shield on her right wrist as she darts over to the group with a worried look* Um I have no idea what's going on but I'm sure we can just talk out whatever this right!? *Homura's hands shake a bit as she looks between everyone clearly not wanting to fight*

Permits? Uh... how about a grant from a group of scientists? Will that work? I don't really have time to fill out paper work you know... I'll leave in like a week?

Depends on the scientists. I've been trying to shut down loads of illegitamate businesses ever since I became overlord.

*With no warning a cloud of dust appears in front of the tower. When it clears, a blue anthropomorphic hedgehog stands tall and looks upon the tower with a smirk.* So first there's that hotel and now there's this tower? Things love to keep popping up around here don't they? Hey, you there! *Sonic points at the man by the entrance holding a gem and sword.* What's the deal with this place? I'm not getting many friendly vibes from it.

*suddenly, sans!* S: heard someone was captured. might as well help, got nothin better to do.

Nobody has to fight, you can simply turn around and leave, I'm only doing what's right, taking back what's rightfully mine. Hmmm, its a merry bunch of scientists that have practiced with genes i think, I'm not necessarily clear on the details. Ah, a blue hedgehog, this tower is a conduit in the most basic terms, on the roof is the main projection, think of it as a reverse lightning rod, does that answer your question? If you have nothing better to do why don't you go back to where you came from? Nobody is asking for you to help.

If this tower is the key to getting them back... Then there's not a moment to waste. *Yu sheathes his blade as he begins walking towards the entrance while glaring at the man all the while.* Aitome... I won't just sit by and let a friend die this time... I will save you!

*With no warning a cloud of dust appears in front of the tower. When it clears, a blue anthropomorphic hedgehog stands tall and looks upon the tower with a smirk.* I'M THE FASTEST THING ALIVE! *Sonic points at the man by the entrance holding a gem and sword.* YOU'RE TOO SLOW!

S: eh, I like helping people out. now why don't ya just let that kiddo out of that tower. *his left eye begins to glow blue as a swarm of bones appear behind him* unless you wanna have a bad time.

*4.Yu stands in tge distance, glaring at Yu. He doesn't appear visible, amongst the crowd* Heh, let's see how this unfolds.

Well we're climbing this tower right now. But if you'd like to continue expositioning about your plans go right ahead.

*teleports in via bullshit Bugster powers* IS THIS A GAME I LOVE GAMES

*Sonic's eyes twitch at the... other him.* Another faker? Really? I thought I was done with this. *He sighs and before anyone can blink he's walking next to Yu.* Sounds like someone's in trouble. Mind if I tag along to help? Saving people is kind of my thing.

*Alice, having seen the tower looming in the distance, arrives. She looks around at the group, only recognizing a handful of them but not wanting to go ahead and judge too quickly. She stands off to the side and waits for the others to make the first move.* So this is where the party is at tonight? In that case I hope I'm not too late for the main event.

*Ex-aid passes by, too fixated on his gaming console to notice anything else. For a brief moment, he notices Genm, but quickly turns back to his console* Oh, hi! Genm

*She smiles and waves cheerfully with her left hand, grinning at the Hedgehog* Oh hi Sonic it's nice seeing you again, and no it doesn't really seem like a nice place to me either... That's why I'm gonna figure this out! *She raises a fist into the air and leaps up a bit* I'm gonna save... Aitome!? That's the person I saw in GYM before, *she sighs and shakes her head recalling the clearly ignored advice the older boy has been given* he really didn't listen to any of us huh? *She shrugs and nods along with the real Sonic's words* What he said! I'm gonna help whoever I can. *a smile crosses over her as she looks into the tower thinking of likely worse places* I bet this isn't the worst place I'll have been, so you can count on me alright everyone?

N-NANI?! EMU?!

Kind of a big audience. I better be prepared. *4.Yu loads his AR and holds it firmly in his arms.*

Hehehe... if you really think you can save him then be my guest, ill just say one thing though, he doesn't want your help, he's perfectly content with being up there, and with that ill on the roof, if you make it that far. *The man then laughs as he slices the air with the rift blade, walking through it and closing it, the air around the tower then seems to grow thicker, the sky turning black and condensing around the top to create a dark sphere on the top, the entrance of the tower begins to light up black veins, (Now then, enter at your leisure, while I pull out my GMing account and start to actually do something)

*Yu looks forward with a look of determination. He walks forward without looking away from the entrance.* Anyone can help if they want. No matter what, I will save you... I'm not gonna let the past haunt me anymore...So don't let yours continue haunting you. It's time for us both to move forward. *Yu with a reaffirmed resolve walks into the tower, unknowing of what may be waiting inside.*

Fuck this noise, call me if you need me. Don't call. *The asshole leaves his business card before teleporting out*

S: *sighs* luckily, paps has forced me to train. i love him, so I did it. now I have more HP, so getting hit shouldn't be a problem.

*he walks in*

*Emu briefly makes an "eh" sound as he dismisses Genm* Can we not fight right now, I wanna play this new game I just got, Gofast: Frenzy for the button! *Emu shows the holds out the rectangular console with one hand, in order to show the group it. One could note that it only has one button on it.*

Seems weird places bring us together Homura. Wonder when the next time will be. Probably a haunted mansion or something. *Sonic grins a bit as he approaches the tower.* I don't know this Aitome, but if you and this silver haired guy like him enough to go inside here he must be worth saving. Let's do this with Sonic speed! *The hedgehog enters the tower, and awaits what will meet him inside.*

*4.Yu quietly moves alongside the shadows, so as to not get noticed. He goes into a bush that's locayed to the side of the tower. Light rustling noises could be heard.*

*Walks on in as well....*

*She shivers at the mention of a haunted Mansion and walks in after Sonic with a wary look and a white knuckled grip on her gun* Yeah it's definitely odd but I don't think I mind it! You seem like a good guy so it's kinda cool. *She absently pushes her glasses up and waits in the entry looking around nervously*

*Noticing that the group has made their approach Alice springs forward. She doesn't bother to start a conversation as she has yet to even figure out this involves Aitome, whom she's previously met, and would like to learn more about the situation she has stepped into. However she is interested in the peculiar device the apparent enemy used to teleport with.*

*Thinks to himself "I won't be able to catch up if I have to keep hiding like this". And thus, 4.Yu dons a black hoodie, making his face unrecognizable. His voice was already indistinguishable due to his aging. He then slowly creeps up to a corner of the tower, gazing at the group and taking a shot in the dark that no one notices him*

(Small little warning for anyone else, posting in about 3-5 minutes)

*sans notices the blue hedgehog* S: heya, you're that hedgehog I keep hearing about. you're names sonic, right?

*With a sudden movement, a black stream flashes between the corner of the building and the door. The black figure then cartwheels to the left, hoping there was an object he could hide behind in his sight.*

*The group enters into a giant room the walls seem black on the inside as a black fog cover the area, the roof too high to see however as the fog blocks your vision, however you happen to notice on the left and on the right are 2 doors, the one on the left seems to resemble the veiny red walls of mementos, however it has ichor and burn marks littering it, the one on the right seems to be made of a glowing ice as a cool breeze seems to emit from the bottom of the door, (GM note! This will be a part narrative and update system, if you haven't used it before ill explain it briefly, ill let everyone post an action then put an update and have the environment react to the players, I will also accept anyone and everyone, there is no limit, however do bear in mind that I can only keep track of so much and if I skip you accidentally it is on mistake, have fun now!)

S: the door on the right kinda reminds me of snowdin. i sat we go there. it'll be pretty "cool".

Ooc: say not sat

Heh... *4.Yu blends in to the dark walls, and slowly inches to the distant corner to his left.*

*Yu walks up to the burnt door and glances at it curiously.* Fire...and ice... So, which one should we go for first... We should choose quickly. For all, we know Aitome could still be in danger.

What's the matter Homura? Afraid of ghosts? Trust me, they aren't really all that scary. *Sonic looks at the short skeleton and raises an eyebrow.* While I've got a reputation back home I didn't think I made a big splash here yet. I'm the one and only fastest thing alive, Sonic the Hedgehog. Who are you? *Upon entering the tower Sonic looks at both doors curiously, speeding over to the red one first, then the door on the left. He knocks his hands on them to see how they feel.* I'm not a big fan of sliding on ice, but I can manage. Although without a fire shield I don't know how much I trust the one on the left.

I, for one, vote ice.

S: names sans. sans the skeleton.

*The girl nods steadfastly and walks over to the fire door pulling it open and slowly walking though... Before realizing everyone else wants ice and walking there instead in a blur as she laughs to cover up her embarrassment* Oh um yes ice is just fine really. *Her voice sounds strained as though she has a dislike for ice but won't disagree* Alright everyone let's get going then! *She forces a brave look and goes through once everyone else is ready*

*4.Yu mutters under his breath* ...just make a decision.

*Yu steps through the ice door without a moment hesitation.* Sorry, we don't have any time to waste here.

(Im gonna wait for a majority, please for my sanity and your IC lives don't split up 2 Ice maybe 3? 1 Fire) *As sonic knocks on the doors, the left one feels grotesque and squishy, like a bunch of muscle tissue, the right one seems to be made of a hard ice, energy seems to pool upon hitting it however,

Oh dear Aitome is here? I really need to start staying in the loop when it comes to these matters... Perhaps we should start with fire fir- or that works too. *Now knowing what the goal is here, Alice commits herself, and her memory, to it before following Yu through the ice door.*

(Nvm, ice it is! Please await the GM to slam his hands on the keyboard to make something readable)

*As the group heads through the icy door they are met with a torrent of raindrops, the area above them has seemed to open up and a storm has started, grey clouds litter the sky as the sun is no where to be seen, the party then sees a set of stairs leading up to what seems to be a shrine, a red post made of wood stands at the top of the stairs, wish planks lay of the left with an wishing place to the right, in the middle is a building with on offering box as a figure stands before it, meditating, he wears a torn blue suit with a cracked twin horned mask, with blue hair, but that's all you can see from this angle

*is bothered by the rain* S: geez, it went from snowdin to waterfall in no time flat. *notices the person* who's that?

*4.Yu stays put in the prior room and aims his assault rifle, ready to fore at the slightest instigation.*

So, this is one of the challenges? *Yu faces the figure.* Hey, who exactly are you? Why are you hear keeping Aitome locked up?

I have a feeling I know what's going on here..... *looks at the sky, then the shrine, and then the figure* You're a friend of Aitome, aren't you?

*Sonic opens his right hand lets the rain fall on his glove as he looks to the sky.* Can't say I was expecting this. Thought this would be more like Holoska with the door being like ice... *He looks at the figure by the shrine and shrugs his shoulders.* No time like the present. Let's see what's up with that guy. *Sonic walks over to the figure trying to get a better look, letting the others do the talking for now.*

*The girl looks at the figure and points her gun at the ground trying not to look hostile* Hello there may we ask you a few questions? *The girl smiles brightly at the figure and waves at him* I'm sure that whatever you're here for we can work this out with no violence or anything right!? *Homura's gun vanishes as she holds her right hand out* I'm Homura Akemi and it's a pleasure to meet you!

I know I'm just complaining but I'd say trying to stay dry in here is the real challenge... That man we met outside is already getting under my skin. *She's with the others as they approach the person at the shrine. Once Homura made her proposition Alice couldn't help but smile at how innocent that made her ally out to be.*

*The figure then turns around still sitting down but opening its eyes, it seems to almost be a near identical clone of Aitome, however its eyes are blackened beneath the mask, its hair is also blue, as it speaks in a deep raspy voice, as if it hurts for it to talk Me? Keep Aitome locked up? Ha... Do you not know who I am? I am Tormention, the other being residing within Aitome, the being if pain. I should be asking you why you have come here, we only bring pain to those that involve themselves with us. That is correct Lady Migrant, although I ask you the same question, why have you come.... Greetings Lady Homura, I am Tormention, you may ask as many questions as you like, however, I may not give you the answers you desire.

S: so, you're one of those persona things everyone is talking about? nice to meet ya. names sans.

(Being of pain, the mistakes are showing up already! [Please don't mind the GM despairing])

*Yu looks at the figure with a fierce determination as he states his question very clearly.* What exactly do we need to do to save them? And don't just tell me they don't want to be saved, I already told them that I'd but in no matter what as their friend.

I'm here to save a friend of course. Honestly I thought you two would have had enough of tormenting Aitome after the first incident.

*4.Yu inches closer to Yu, slowly, as he listens to this statement* ...interesting.

Honestly I don't even know Aitome very well at all but if someone's in trouble I'll definitely save them! *The girl grins at him and her eyes light up a bit as she resolves to follow this till the end* Now as for questions... What exactly is this place? Also how and why are you here Mr Persona? *She tilts her head at the Persona and gives it a pondering look*

Hmmm.... So if you're Aitome's pain, then that means you want someone to help ease it for you right? So what'll it be? Gonna talk to us about the past? Do we need to go through some trial to take it away? *Sonic folds his arms and begins to tap his foot quickly.*

(Waiting on Arisu rn)

It's always tricky dealing with beings like you, especially with your "answers." I am curious though, you mentioned you reside within Aitome so are we perhaps inside of them right now? *Alice has crossed her arms at this point. Sure the rain annoys her but there are more pressing matters at hand.*

Hmm, if you truly wish to save her you must get rid of this... hate, and to do so you must convince me to allow you passage to the roof, however I will not go against Aitome so easily Hmph... This is not my wish Lady Migrant, this is Aitome's wish, he wants to keep you away from the pain that we bring, I would never work against him, you must be thinking of another person. This place Lady Homura is a peaceful shrine, Aitome often comes here for solace and peace within his tormented soul, as for me I am here to prevent you from going to the top, however I may be swayed into looking the opposite direction. Hedgehog, my reason for existence here has been said, convince me and I'll let you to the roof, however you will need 2 gatekeepers to allow passage to the top, I only vouch for one. That is an interesting way to look at it Lady Alice but alas no, I am a separate entity yet chained to Aitome, *The air then seems to chill, the rain getting faster and harder, as Tormention stands up, creating a frozen greatsword in his hands, You may convince me by words, or by force, do not mind my feelings.

Well that's nice but Ai's brought absolutely no pain to me. Hel, Ai tried saving me on at least one occasion, and probably more.

S: *thinks "reminds me of the how frisk felt."* Ooc: I'm tired as Eff so imma sleeps.

So if you're one of two gatekeepers and we were presented with one of two doors then is it safe to assume the second gatekeeper is down the other path? If we were to convince that one would you be convinced as well? *Having seen the keeper's weapon materalize and noticing how harsh the weather has become, she'd favor avoiding a fight in this room. After proposing her question Alice turns to see what Homura has to say.*

Ok then, guess if all else fails we can knock you down for a bit. But getting rid of hate though... *Sonic begins walking up the shrine to the wish planks, looking to pick one up to look at it.* While hate's a very negative emotion you can't just get rid of it. You have to accept it and let it run it's course. The most important thing I think, is being able to realize how you're feeling, and not let it pull you down. You can't stay chained to the past while you try and run to the future. I think, you shouldn't let anything hold you back and tell yourself to keep on running.

*Yu looks at the figure pleadingly as he chooses his next words.* I... I don't know if I can convince you easily. To be frank, I really didn't know Aitome that well until I fought them myself. At first, I thought they were the type to make rash decisions and who made choices that were somewhat irrational based on their past. But I grew to respect them on that day and what they were fighting for. They wanted to change that past of theirs, right? Can't exactly say that I know the feeling completely, but when a friend of mine died when I wasn't there... *Yu pauses for a moment as he looks down.* I didn't know how to feel. And... *Yu looks back up to face Tormentation with a feeling of absolution.* That's why I want to save Aitome, even if they say they don't want anyone interfering or saving them. if I went just left them to die... ...no, if I left them to suffer at all! I don't think I could forgive myself for something like that. I think somewhere deep down they want to be saved as well. Can you tell me I'm wrong, can you tell me that they aren't secretly hoping not to die! *Tears begin building in Yu's eyes as he speaks.* Nobody wants to die!

... *The girl breaths in before stepping forward and looking the Persona dead in it's eyes. The rain covering her glasses before she pulls them off and speaks in a clear voice for once* I'm not entirely sure what you are but if you're part of Aitome how is stopping us a good idea!? Please you have to see that hurting him isn't a good plan right... *Homura winces as she looks at the sword rasing her shield up but clearly not willing to be hostile* I'm not going to fight you Tormention, this battle would be utterly pointless and benefit no one so please just let us pass... Even if he wants to keep us out by doing so you're working against him! We only want to help him and shouldn't his safety matter more than his desires!? *The girl's voice rises as she gives her speech clearly feeling quite strongly about the matter out of some experience*

*4.Yu loads his gun* Heh, fools. I got the feeling this "convincing" is just another trap.

I've helped people..? *The rain lets up for a second as the darkness in Tormention's eyes begin to recede, before coming back, rain letting down every harder That's not true... I've only caused immense pain... I am different from the other gatekeeper, you must convince both of us individually, Staying chained to the past... I... im not sure how Aitome feels about that, after all I am only one part of the soul... *the rain begins to lift slowly, the dark color in Tormention's eyes seem to recede back as a blue takes it's place, the wish planks all seem to convey the same feeling behind them, a sense of dread comes from each one, with the same message on each "I don't to cause pain for the ones I hold dear to me" The wanting of death... if death can bring solace to others is it not the best course of action? Although... watching another person in pain... His safety? Is that what matters to you... dying causing more grief than good... you all raise good points... and I have decided... *Tormention then falls to the ground, using the greatsword to keep himself from completely face planting as he yells out, darkness completely receding away from his eyes as it blasts out, the rain completely stopping as the clouds part and the sun shines on everyone, Tormention standing up and smiling a rare smile to everyone, You have convinced me that you have the courage to help others, even if it causes pain for yourself, for that I can allow you passage. Please I will return to Aitome and await your ascent to the top. *Tormention then begins to fade away, leaving behind a vivid blue crystal, as something clicks behind the party,

Well, we got one at least. Though I'm guessing we'll have to fight the other one.... aaaaaaaagain.

*Yu walks up and looks at the crystal.* What's this? *He examines the crystal without touching out of the fear that it might shatter.* It doesn't matter too much... We need to move on...

*The girl leaps into the air with a grin on her face and sticks her tongue out at 4th Yu before landing* Hah! The world isn't as horrible and cynical as you make it out to be you jerk! Hope can beat despair if you actually give it a shot! *She turns bright red at her outburst before wiping the glasses off and putting them back on... Trying very hard to look small and unnoticeable as she walks back the lobby* Um come on guys let's get going... Aitome needs our help after all so yeah. *Her voice is soft and shaking clearly lacking the confidence seen before*

*4.Yu backflips back into the shadows to prevent being seens upon the party's departure from the room*

Piece of cake, no sweat! Let's convince that other gatekeeper and save Aitome. *Sonic does a quick flip and grins at everyone else.* Race you all to the other door. *With that, Sonic is suddenly gone from his position and the now unlocked door is open. He stands waiting for the others by the red door, then appears back where he was.* Oh by the way, be careful with the crystal. It's got to be important somehow. *Then the hedgehog disappears to the other door.*

*Yu looks at Homura before moving back to the main room.* Right... Aitome...We will save you...

*Heads on out to the main room* Yeah....

*Yu returns and decides to pick up the crystal.* Better safe than sorry. *He returns to the main room.*

*In the main room the darkness seems to have slightly lifted, instead of dark drabbiness the atmosphere feels more uplifting, but not by much, then the party seems to hear a distorted voice, its much too distorted to make out who, or even what but its there, now join us next time on Phansite Z, where we investigate the fiery vieny door as its late and I need sleep! Hopefully we can begin tomorrow at the same time!

*Alice looks to the crystal with interest. She had expected Yu to take it, seeing as he is usually leading the charge, but is surprised to find that he hasn't only to be surprised again when he suddenly comes back to take it. She'd grin as she returns with him to the previous room.* I was thinking I'd have to carry it around but I'm glad to see you came back. What even urged you to leave it behind?

*Yu looks back at Alice with a smile despite the urgent situation.* I was afraid to pick it up at first, but a feeling made me come back for it. I can't really explain it but it was almost like... It was calling me back in a way. At least, that's how it felt. It might've just been my imagination.

(Role Call! Thread is resuming in about 15 minutes!)

OOC: Maybe I'm here...or am I? It's a mystery...

OOC: I'm here! Or is this just some dream that's all too real? Perhaps we're just in your head Mr Gm who I totally don't know the name of.

OOC: I guess I can lend my aid.

OOC: Limits are meant to be broken.

(Well then time to get this show on the road, quick reminder that anyone is free to hop in) *The group then enters into the main hall, the previous dark fog lifting a bit as the walls seem to glow a small amount, as the door on the left emits an deadly aura, awaiting the party

Well.... red door time...

*Yu walks over to the red door and stares at it while waiting for the other.* Aitome... We just have to defeat this one, then we'll reach you, right?

Likely after this door we'll have to fight the guy that kidnapped Aitome.

{Cloud holds his Buster Sword in front of him as he enters. He would place two orbs into the slots on the blade, both yellow. After equipping his Materia, he'd place the blade on his back before tying a ribbon on his left arm.} This is the place huh? {He paces over and stands behind Yu, putting a hand on his shoulder.} No worries pal, we'll save your friend!

*The girl walks into the room looking at the door with a bit of fear in her eyes* Okay everyone let's all do our best and make sure to save Aitome-kun! *Homura forces a brave smile before she walks through the door, her Magical Girl outfit bursting into life as a sniper rifle appears in her hands from the shield, she looks over the gun tossing some ice Dust rounds into it.* Geez this place doesn't seem fun... I miss the cold already. and I'm not even inside. *She walks through the door with a wary look and holds her gun at the ready*

Update (assuming everyone is entering)

*Yu walks into the door with determination his eyes as he responds to Cloud.* Thanks... I appreciate any help in saving them... I'll show them that even if they're willing to disappear... That we won't let them!

*As the group enters the red door, they are hit with a blast of air as a train whips past the group, the walls around them are red and veiny, being made of concrete, however they are splattered with ichor colored stains, bits of shadowy blobs resembling limbs, blood, and burn marks, off in the distance the party can see a long red haired girl with 9 tails made of fire with her back against the party.

*Yu walks up to the girl and stares her down.* So... I'm guessing you're another part of Aitome. So, what's your name and what is it that you want exactly? *Yu tries to remain his composure despite his desperation to move on.*

{Cloud braces himself as the train whips past before responding to Yu.} I've lost myself before, so I agree. We won't let them disappear! {Cloud catches a glimpse of the figure and begins to approach. His eyes looking around the room at the grotesque scene.}

Hmm... mementos-themed, huh?

*The girl looks at the figure and approaches with her gun pointed down along with a smile on her face* Um hello there it's nice to meet you part of Aitome-kun... I know you have a name but well I don't know that yet so sorry! *Homura bows for a moment before looking up at it again* I'm Homura Akemi and I hope we can work this out peacefully! *She smiles brightly and waves at the being with her left hand before gripping the gun again*

(Update)

Aw come on now Yu! That's no way to greet somebody! I'm Korumi Alchiko! I'm the being of anger! Wherever I go I leave corpses! I simply want to stop you guys from reaching the top! You'll only die if you do... *Korumi then turns around to face the group, eyes black like the previous gatekeeper, turning to Homura, speaking incredibly smugly See! Isn't that better? Hiya Homura! I don't think that might be possible but you can try! Hehe....

You don't just want to leave corpses, do you? I mean come on, it's not like you killed anyone in Ai's entire time at the Nexus.

*Yu looks at Kuromi while standing his ground firmly.* Die? How do you know that? I want to save Aitome and something like death won't deter me. I've faced death plenty of times for the sake of others, sometimes even people most wouldn't find in their heart to forgive. Aitome's a friend though, so there's nothing that will stop me from saving them. You made of their anger, right? So then can't you feel it, their outrage at this cruel fate. Isn't that proof enough that they want to be saved?

{Cloud grins as he approaches the lady, smiling warmly. As he approaches he is coated in a yellow light.} [MANIPULATE] Come on now! Anger isn't a solitary emotion. It only exists in response to a cause...and we have come to deal with that cause. Your friends are here for you. So even if it is too dangerous for us up there...just let us go so we can help ease your fury.

*Homura's gun vanishes as she looks up at the older girl with a warm smile utterly ignoring the smugness of Korumi* Well even if you're just mad all the time... Surely there's more to you than that right Korumi-chan? *She offers a hand to the Persona and looks into her eyes, though is still standing back simply inviting Korumi closer* I'm not sure about what Yu-kun just said but I'm sure there must be more to you as a person right? So um... What I'm saying is let's try to get along, just feeling anger all the time has to be awful right? So please try to do something else! I want to help but unless you try that's not possible! *Homura steps a bit closer and grins at the older girl clearly not intending to harm Korumi as offers her hand* Come on Korumi-chan let's try to be friends!

Update!

That's not true! I almost killed a ton of people last time! Besides! That doesn't change the fact I killed those scientists in our past! *The tails on her back seems to flare fire, spewing it before turning to Yu, shouting at him I can feel it! You won't survive against hate! Especially with them both working together! Moron! We sealed our fate way back then! Its only right we see it though! *The flames then seem to die down a bit at Clouds remark, Korumi looking down at the ground Anger being caused by something? I have.. friends? Is that what I want... *Korumi then looks at Homura, sticking out her hand before retracting it quickly, darkness clouding her eyes completely No... that's what I'm trying to prevent right... is it? No... we couldn't save that girl from the same thing we suffered, how could you save us?

Friends? Of course you have friends. Would we come here if we weren't friends?

*Yu loses focus for a moment but regains it as stares right back at Korumi.* But is seeing it through really going to help you or anyone? Don't you think all of your friends would rather see Aitome alive? Wouldn't you all rather just stop this all... I don't want to have to lose another friend... And I'm sure none of you want to suffer that loss either. The loss of all your friends...

Well Cait Sith is a better talker then myself. {Cloud shrugs.} This isn't the first time I've opposed an immense hatred. My world was almost lost multiple times to the whims of hate. {Cloud smirks as he points at the girl.} Hope. Hope is the foil to fate! And I'm sure you can feel it inside each of us, our hearts are full to the brim with the hope of saving Aitome! {Cloud smiles again.} If you need proof of our conviction that's fine, but I'd rather you listen to reason.

*She smiles sadly at Korumi and shrugs* Frankly? I'm not totally sure how I can't lie to you Korumi-chan! But even so we'll find a way because we have to... I know what it's like failing to save someone you love, I've done it... *A dark look passes over Homura's face as she recalls a girl in pink and things that have happened far more than they should of, her voice coming out tired as she speaks quietly* Well I've done it a few times over Korumi but even so... *She brightens up and raises her right fist before offering the hand to the older girl once more* My name is Homura Akemi! I've fought the same terrible battle over and over but even so I still won't give up on my hopes! So if I can do that then please just try to have some yourself Korumi-chan! As long as we work together and try our best then somehow I'm sure we'll find a way! Maybe we couldn't do anything on our own but we've got each other! *Homura does something even she finds a bit foolish in hindsight, walking over to Korumi and hugging her without even thinking of the danger* I'm going to save you somehow even if you don't want it... But I'd really rather you did want it!

[Update!]

Friends huh? Do you really mean it? Don't you care about the horrible things we've done at all? That time behind LeBlanc... our entire past... I can't really see how we are friends... Aitome is at no threat of dying! Didn't you listen at all? Why do I even try sometimes... however... the loss of a friend... *Korumi then clenches her fists, darkness clearing a small amount, Opposing something to the bitter end? Having the power to continue oppose something, even if your at risk of dying... *Korumi then gets suddenly hugged, tails flaring a red as Korumi's fist bursts into flames before realising whats happening, extinguishing it and getting up slowly, darkness on the fringes of the eye, a brillant red color almost eclipsing it completely Working with other people... thats something that im not very good at, but I suppose I can try... with you guys right? *Korumi then smiles and looks at everyone before frowning, biting her lip But... can you really accept a murderer? I want to believe so but I have my doubts, whenever I swing my blade I feel a rush, isnt that a bad thing? Getting pleasure from the death of others? Knowing that they won't see another person ever again as you cut them down?

I'll be honest. It bugs me. But so long as you make amends in the eyes of the law after this is done... {Cloud walks forth with a hand out.} Then I don't mind working with you at all! So what do you say we finish this thing?

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little afraid of you. But hey, just look at Yu. He had some real scary friends. Or hell, even Joker had Ryuji.

*Homura looks down... But still holds onto the older girl and after a moment smiles up at her* I can, Kyoko Sakura... She's a good friend of mine from back home actually. *She pauses trying to find the right way to put this before a sadness fills her smile, the girl's voice goes a bit soft and weak* Kyoko... Well there are these things called familiars in my world, long story short if they kill enough people they become a witch. Killing witches is something Magical Girls like her and I have to do to stay alive Korumi-chan, Kyoko... To sum up she just let them eat people on the chance of getting a few more witches to hunt, she'd sit by and watch even if someone died for it. *Her face lights up once more as her voice rises back up and she looks cheerful again* And even so she's still one of my best friends! Kyoko changed from doing that and I believe you can too Korumi-chan so don't give up please! *She pulls the girl a bit tighter clearly not concerned about any possible threats* I might not know you very well yet... But just the fact you haven't hurt me tells me I believe in you!

*Yu just states one simple thing.* Do you even need my answer, we're already friends, aren't we?

Well then I'll have to work to fix that Mig! Unfortunately I don't know Yu or Jokers friends, but I have a feeling they are good people, so ill strive to be good too! *Korumi then looks down and smiles at Homura, hugging her while responding, So she changed as well? Then I'll change! I can use this power for good! Ill change just like this Kyoko! Ill become an angel of saviour rather than a devil of death! Should have expected that! Friends till the end! *the darkness then completely disappears from her eyes as a black ball appears in her left hand, crushing it as it disperses and disappears, Korumi smiling Heh, felt good to do that, at any rate you've proven to me that you can do this! Ill be waiting waiting within Aitome for your next move then! Don't disappoint me! Oh! Almost forgot! Here is a crystal of my energy! Think of it as proof that you have proven yourself! At any rate toodles! *Korumi then begins to vanish into blue sparkles as a vivid red gem falls to the ground flames dance within it as it shines brightly like a minature sun, the red door opening behind the party as a click is heard

{Cloud grins as he pulls the Buster Sword off his back and spins it in front of himself while whistling some fanfare. He'd place the sword on his back right after.} Well that was a piece of cake! Way to go team!

*Yu walks up to the crystal and puts it in his pocket with the other one.* We're almost there now... We can't quit now... *Yu heads back into the main room.*

{Cloud follows behind Yu.} That's right! We can do this, together!

ALL RIGHT EVERYONE WE DID IT! *She chuckles nervously at her shouting before shrugging and walking out the door with a satisfied grin on her face* Hmm... I came here trying to get better at fighting in part but so far all I've done is just talk things out. *Homura giggles to herself at how odd things have been* I'm sure we can do this guys! But... I think I need to practice some actually, haven't really been doing much of that so yeah. *She looks curiously at Cloud* Think you're up for it Cloud-san?

{He'd look down to the girl and point to himself with a curious look.} You want to have a bout with me? {He grins and extends a hand to the girl.} Sounds like a plan. Just know that I know firearms like the back of my hand! So I'll be expecting quite a high level of marksmanship!

*The party returns to the entrance and the dark atmosphere has completely lifted, the walls have turned golden as a spiral staircase has fallen on the walls, leading up the dark abyss of the roof, looks like the next adventure into the tower will be the last, as you confront the dark figure and (hopefully) save Aitome! [#Aitomediesfirst though]

[#EmDiesFirstNow]