October 7^th, 2019
Sunday
Sunny

Daytime

song: When the Moon's Reaching Out Stars - Persona 3

Starlight chose to go into town today. Both to just spend some time with her thoughts, but also to see if she could run into Diamond Tiara. Tonight, she planned on tackling Elysium again, but she wanted to gauge how bad off Diamond was, see if she needed to worry at all. Mostly though, she just needed to be with her thoughts after yesterday’s date with her roommate.

Was it a date? It felt like a date. She hoped it was a date. Until she learned otherwise, she’d assume it was a date.

Please be a date…

After spending time with Trixie yesterday, it seemed like she and Starlight had become visibly closer. Maybe she was imagining it, but it almost felt like Trixie was more focused on Starlight. Her flirting seemed a bit more prominent now, and if Starlight didn’t know better, she lingered for a bit longer when they hugged this morning.

By now, Starlight strongly suspected that Trixie had a thing for her. She was really happy about that, as now she was willing to admit that she did in fact have a crush on her. But there were a few concerns she had concerning that.

For one, was Trixie seriously interested in her? Or was she just clinging to Starlight because she saved her? Starlight tried to focus on just being friends with Trixie, which was easy since they did have a lot in common, and she enjoyed her company. She wanted to be friends first and lovers second, assuming they ever went in that direction. It seemed more and more like they might go in that direction, but Starlight didn’t want to risk hurting her. Which led into the other reason she was worried about engaging in a sexual relationship with Trixie ultimately.

Was it healthy for Trixie to be in a relationship now?

It’s been close to a month since Starlight helped Trixie awaken to her Persona. She considered that to be when she and Blueblood broke up, since she had said as much in her Dungeon. That, wasn’t really a long time to be single, and Starlight could tell that Trixie was still very traumatized by the whole thing. She tended to avoid members of the football team, and would run the other way down the hall if she even glimpsed Blueblood approaching. If they entered in a romantic relationship now, would that be good for Trixie? Or should she maybe spend some more time single in order to gather herself, figure out who Trixie was alone.

Though Starlight would have gladly helped her figure that out.

But that led into another concern she had. Where was she mentally in this? Were her intentions pure, or was she just enamored by the idea of being Trixie’s “knight in shining armor” of sorts? If her interest were more in the latter category, she did NOT feel safe engaging in a relationship with her. And that didn't even consider the highly erotic dreams she was still having about Trixie!

Starlight groaned rubbing her eyes. This was so complicated. She still wasn’t sure how she’d get closer to Rarity, or how she’d get information on her. Diamond was in danger now, possibly with a fully fleshed out Dungeon, and now she was worrying about this weird, thing with her roommate!

As she wasn’t paying attention, she ended up bumping into someone as she turned the corner.

song: Ideal and the Real - Persona 5 Royal

“Oh! Careful honey,” a gentle voice purred, with the subtlest hint of sensuality. Starlight froze as the woman she bumped into held her. She smelled of lavender. That scent, and the way she spoke… it was almost just like…

Mom…?

Starlight slowly looked up wide eyed. The woman before her was most certainly not her mother. She had super long and full dark blue hair, cyan eyes that almost looked green, and wore clothes very similar to Ms. Tia’s. A dark blue kimono with a light blue flower design on it, hanging off her shoulders in the same manner as her homeroom teacher, showing off a hefty bust like said teacher, a green band around the middle of the kimono to hold it closed, which tied behind her in a large bow, and high heeled sandals that were silver instead of golden. The way she wore hers was a bit looser, which allowed her legs to poke out a bit more, and she also wore black cat eye glasses, dark blue eye shadow, and purple lipstick.

“Are you alright, honey?” the woman asked after a bit, “You seemed to be in a daze.”

“Ah, y-yes, I’m fine,” Starlight said pulling off of the woman, “Sorry about that. I have a lot on my mind, and you kinda reminded me of, someone close to me.”

The woman nodded with an understanding smile, “I see. So long as you’re alright,” she looked around and then sighed, “This place is so hard to navigate…”

“Are you, looking for something?” Starlight asked.

“Yes. I just recently moved here for work, and I heard there was a lovely ramen shop here. Trouble is, I can’t seem to find it,” she placed a hand to her cheek and closed her eyes in frustration, “This town is so labyrinthine…”

Starlight blinked, needing to take a second to try and understand what she meant. This woman, whoever she was, radiated an aura that screamed “timeless”, not helped by how she carried herself and spoke. Still, she seemed nice enough. Kind of like a wise sage, almost.

Starlight did want to find Diamond Tiara, but she couldn’t leave this woman hanging. Not when she had an idea of where it was she was going.

“If you’d like, I can lead you there,” Starlight offered, “”It’s, kind of my favorite place to eat here.”

“Oh, would you? I would be most gracious,” the woman smiled in relief, holding out her hand, “You may call me Luna.”

Starlight smiled, “Starlight Glimmer. It’s a pleasure to meet you,” she took her hand, and immediately felt her powerful aura wash over her. It was so similar to how it was when she first shook Ms. Tia’s hand.

“Likewise,” the woman, Luna, said, her smile widening and her expression softening somewhat. Starlight’s heart was racing from this woman’s presence, and yet she felt herself suddenly happy she was close to her still.

Starlight led the woman down the path to the Ramen Shop, which much to her embarrassment meant walking past Chains and Whip’s Central. For some reason, walking past a fetish shop with Luna made Starlight SUPER embarrassed.

Made worse when she stopped and turned to look up at the shop.

“A fetish shop, out here in the open?” she asked looking at the sign, “How brazen.”

“I take it, where you come from, that’s not exactly common…?” Starlight asked.

“The people certainly wouldn’t be so upfront by it,” Luna said walking around the front of the shop and examining it. She then threw Starlight for a loop, by smiling, and walking inside.

Starlight panicked a bit and walked inside, finding Luna near the riding crops, actually holding one and looking it over. Starlight walked over to the oddly dressed woman and asked about the ramen shop, eager to get her out of here.

“We can continue in a bit. But my curiosity must be sated,” she said eagerly, waving it around, “Where I come from, these shops exist, but the people are far more ashamed of their urges. Truly maddening.”

Based on her attire and how she carried herself, she had a feeling she might have been from Japan. As such, she wasn’t expecting her to be so, chill about it. Downright accepting even. Was she Japanese? Starlight wasn’t courageous enough to just ask outright, so she instead chose to inquire about her kimono.

“Oh this? It’s attire from my homeland,” Luna answered honestly, “Though I understand it’s a bit odd, I’ve seen far more outlandish clothing since coming here.”

It was true that Canterlot was a colorful place. Hell, Starlight’s clothes were considered standard here, and she used to get odd looks in her old town for dressing like a witch. Also, she did see a few other people dressed in kimonos and Japanese clothing for artistic purposes, so it wasn’t too strange.

“You’re right,” Starlight winced, “Sorry if I offended you.”

Luna shook her head and walked over to Starlight, gently caressing her cheek, “You have nothing to apologize for. You were curious, and so you asked a question,” she smiled warmly, “Questions are how one fights off ignorance, and replaces it with knowledge.”

Starlight nodded in agreement, unable to keep from smiling.

“May I, ask you a question next, to slake my own curiosity further?” Luna asked. Starlight nodded, “Do you frequent this shop?”

Holy shiz, that was a personal question. While she was embarrassed by it, she got the feeling Luna was just curious about her, and meant no harm.

“Only with friends,” Starlight admitted, “My roommate and I came here yesterday on a date t-” she covered her mouth suddenly. Why did she blurt that out?!

To her credit, Luna laughed jovially, “I see! So you and this roommate have that sort of relationship? My companion of the hour is truly fascinating!”

“Um, she and I aren’t-” Starlight defended, feeling flushed as she looked away, “N-not that I, um, don’t want to be, uh… it’s just, things are… well…” she closed her eyes and sighed, “They’re, complicated, I guess.”

“You, don’t have to tell me,” Luna frowned, folding her arms under her bosom, “But I get the feeling this was what you were thinking about when you bumped into me?”

“It was, part of it,” Starlight averted her eyes, “One of a myriad of problems I’m dealing with at the moment…”

“I happen to be good at listening, so I’ve heard at least,” Luna said, taking Starlight’s hand, “And you seem like you need to get quite a bit off of your chest.”

“Well… I don’t want to put her business out there,” Starlight said after a bit, “But someone, seriously hurt her. I, do want to enter into a relationship with her, but I… I’m worried about causing more harm.”

Luna pursed her lips and raised her head, “Why would you entering in a relationship cause more harm, if I may ask?”

Starlight was hesitant to tell her, as she just met this woman. Still, she hadn’t said any names, and Luna seemed to genuinely want to offer advice. She kinda felt like Ms. Tia, albeit with more of a sensual air compared to Ms. Tia’s more alluring air.

“That, person who hurt her?” Starlight said after a bit, “They were her, ex.”

Luna winced hearing that, “Ah… I see… Yes, this does, complicate things…”

“I, helped her get away from him,” Starlight continued, “And since then, she and I are best friends. But, I’m concerned about a few things.”

“Go on,” Luna said, guiding Starlight out of the shop, since this was becoming more personal by the second. Starlight appreciated this.

“For one, I don’t know if being in a relationship with her now is the best thing,” she said once they were outside, “She’s still in a fragile mental state, and her ex is still harassing her. She might be interested in me, but she might also just be clinging to me because I was there for her.”

Luna nodded, taking that in. She waited for Starlight to continue rather than speaking up herself.

“The other thing, are my thoughts,” Starlight continued, “I don’t know if my reasoning for wanting to be her girlfriend is because I’m just attracted to her, or if I just, enjoy being her hero, I guess.”

“Concerning, your feelings,” Luna said, looking away in thought, “I don’t think, you have anything to worry about.”

“You don’t?” Starlight asked.

Luna shook her head, “Because you are concerned. The mere fact you’re self aware enough to notice that could be an issue, tells me that you genuinely care about her. So long as your feelings are coming from that source, you don’t have anything to worry about. At least, this is how I feel.”

Starlight nodded slowly. That, made sense at least, and it was a relief to hear it from an adult that she was probably okay.

“Now, in terms of your roommate, this is something to consider,” Luna agreed, “I don’t know the nature of how her ex hurt her, but from you’re saying, it seems as though her emotional state is fragile. She might not be rational.”

“That’s, what I’m afraid of,” Starlight looked down, “She does know about me having a crush on her, and she does say she’s okay with it, as she knows I won’t hurt her like he did.”

“Then, I say for now, just take things slow with her, and let her make the first move,” Luna suggested, “Afterward, sit with her, and talk. Ask her how she truly feels, and share with her your concerns.”

Starlight liked this plan. Hell, if necessary, she could even ask Trixie if she could use her Empathic Touch to get a better feel for her emotions. Starlight smiled and thanked Luna.

“You are most welcome, my dear,” Luna smiled lovingly, “My desire is to help as many people as I can with my own power. How could I turn you away?”

She seriously felt similar to Ms. Tia, in that way that made Starlight think of her late Mother. It made Starlight feel emotional, but she didn’t hate this feeling. Still, she had to fight the urge to hug Luna.

They continued their walk to the Kami no Tabemono mostly in silence. Every so often, Luna would ask Starlight about something that caught her interest, which made the walk fun for Starlight. She kind of felt like she’d made a new friend today.

“Ah, here we are,” Luna said looking up at the ramen shop, “Thank you so much for this, Starlight.”

“You’re welcome. Um, thank you, for listening to me,” Starlight rubbed her arm, “I know I’m just some teenager you just met, but-”

“No,” Luna said suddenly, “You aren’t just “some teenager”. You matter, to me, and to this world. I am truly elated that we met today,” she held a hand to her chest, still smiling warmly, “Today was a blessed day, my child, and I hope that we can meet again in the future.”

“I’d, like that,” Starlight smiled. She felt a faint bond forming between her and this mysterious woman.

song: Power of the Heart - Persona 4

“I will see you again soon, Starlight,” Luna gave her a soft smile and bowed, “Very, very soon, I imagine.”

And with that, she walked into the shop. Starlight was a bit, confused. She knew the Tarot very well, and she was under the impression that all of the Social Links would have been Major Arcana to represent the Fool’s Journey.

But Transformation? That, wasn’t one of the Major Arcana… was it…?

“Starlight!”

song: Like a Dream Come True - Persona 4

Starlight turned around and saw Diamond Tiara running up to her. Before Starlight could say anything, she hugged her tightly.

“Whoa! Someone’s in a good mood,” Starlight smiled, returning the hug.

“Well, I’ve been having some really good dreams, is all,” Diamond said, looking into Starlight’s eyes adoringly, “That, and I was hoping I’d run into you today.”

“Even though she had me with her the whole time,” another familiar voice drawled. Great, Starlight thought. Silver Spoon was here too.

“Like I said, both you and Starlight are my best friends,” Diamond said, turning to Silver, “Hey, since we’re already here, why don’t we eat something together? My treat!”

Silver sighed, but smiled, “Anything for you, Diamond.”

Starlight nodded in agreement to this, a bit surprised by how happy Diamond seemed. Then she remembered how Dungeons grew. Right. They started out as good dreams, and slowly turned into nightmares. This meant Diamond still had time.

But based on how Silver Spoon looked, there was still cause for concern. Somehow though, she had a feeling she and Silver would become closer soon.

Diamond pulled her two friends inside the ramen shop and went to get them a table, leaving Starlight alone with Silver Spoon.

“Please tell me you’re not too dense and clueless to see it,” Silver muttered to Starlight, who just rolled her eyes. Even when concerned for her friend, she had to be a bitch.

“I see it, don’t worry,” Starlight sighed, “Has she been animated like this all day?”

Silver nodded, “She won’t tell me anything, and she’s being overly perky. Like, she’s always been upbeat and excitable, but this?”

“What do you say to a truce, until we know Diamond’s alright?” Starlight offered. Silver looked at her intently with narrowed eyes, but then took a breath.

“Fine. You may have your truce, peasant,” she said airily, holding out her hand subtly to Starlight, who gladly shook it while opening herself up.

Ugh! I hate needing to rely on this vapid, suicidal bitch! But, she and Diamond are friends, so I’ll work with her.

Starlight stiffened, but kept her smile cordial. God, this girl was unlikable. Even now, she maintained this “I’m better than you because I’m rich” attitude. She was happy Diamond was nice. A world where Diamond Tiara was just as bad as Silver Spoon was not a world she wanted to live in.

The three of them sat down at their table and looked over the menu.

“You know what? I’m gonna do it,” Diamond decided.

“Going to do, what exactly?” Silver asked stiffly.

“I’m taking the challenge,” Diamond nodded, “I’m ordering the Nine Tailed Kitsune Udon!”

“What?! Are you insane?!” Silver cried, “We don’t need to do some challenge to eat for free! We could probably buy this whole shop if we wanted!”

“It’s about proving that you can,” Diamond said, “You only live once, right? So like, why not just go for it?”

“Starlight, please please please talk some sense into her!” Silver urged. Honestly, Starlight kinda wanted to try it again herself, and she did have the money for it, so…

“Let’s do it together,” Starlight said to Diamond, who nodded beaming.

“That’s the spirit, Starlight!” Diamond beamed.

“I can’t believe what I’m seeing…” Silver muttered, “You’re insane… both of you are insane…”

“It’s alright if you’re too scared to join in,” Starlight said narrowing her eyes subtly, “The regular Kitsune Udon is good enough for you.”

Silver’s face scrunched up into an admittedly cute scowl as she looked at Starlight, “Know what? Just for that, I’m taking the challenge too. And I’m going to win the challenge.”

“Is that so?” Diamond asked raising an eyebrow.

“At the very least, I’ll do better than this one,” she looked at Starlight.

“Bring it on,” Starlight said leaning in, “I won’t lose, to you or the Udon.”

“Waiter!” Silver raised her hand, still glaring at Starlight, “We’re taking the challenge. Three orders of Nine Tailed Kitsune Udon, please.”

Iruka, the male twin, laughed, “Three for the challenge, coming right up!”

As their ramen was being prepared, Starlight turned to see Luna sitting at a table a bit away from her. She was looking at her curiously, but still smiling. She even raised a fist in a manner that seemed to suggest she was rooting for Starlight.

Starlight nodded to her. Now she really couldn’t let herself lose.

“Here you go, girls,” the female twin Izumi said, setting down the bowls along with their safety gloves, “Have fun~” she purred walking off.

“Oh my God,” Diamond blinked, “I haven’t even eaten any of it yet, and my eyes are watering…”

“This isn’t legal,” Silver said, her glasses fogging a bit, “Nothing should be this spicy…”

“We can do this, girls,” Diamond said, putting the gloves on, “Together.”

“Yeah, together,” Silver said, setting her glasses aside and picking up her chopsticks (because of course she’d use those, just to rub it in Starlight’s face that she could).

“On three,” Starlight said, “One, two, three.”

The three girls began at the same time. Starlight thought it’d be easier since she’d already done this twice.

song: Troubled - Persona 3

Oh how wrong she was.

The first mouthful was painful. She’d been stupid and ate more than normal as her first bite, and paid for it by feeling it slowly set her throat on fire as it went down.

Silver was panting heavily, “What, the actual, fuck?!”

“You, can curse?” Starlight asked wide eyed, breathing heavily herself.

“Normally, I’m above, such language, but holy fucking shit this is evil…!” she ate a bit more, and winced in pain.

“I can’t feel my tongue…” Diamond said all too calmly, “I literally can’t feel my tongue right now…”

Starlight whimpered, going in again for another bite. She was getting lightheaded from the amount of spices there were. Would she be able to taste food again after this?

Starlight looked at the two girls, blinking a bit as she seemed to be hallucinating. Diamond was dressed more like a stripper or prostitute, and Silver actually looked like a Medieval Queen of sorts.

Wait, she saw that look on Diamond once before, didn’t she…? Was that, what she wore… in her Dungeon…?

“What’s, the matter, peasant?” Queen Silver asked, face red and tears in her eyes, but having the audacity to smirk, “Lost, your nerve?”

“Not on your life, Your Majesty,” Starlight sneered at her. She then had an idea, focusing on Morgana while she ate, seeing if that’d help her get through this. The added strength made it a bit easier. She was able to get a few more mouthfuls in, at least.

“I’m tapping out!” Diamond said after a bit, “I, I made it like, half way but, I can’t keep going…!”

“Don’t, worry,” Silver said, eating another bit of noodles, “I can bea- oh that was painful… Mmmm! I can beat this insignificant commoner!”

Starlight shook her head, and the two began furiously eating the offending dish, glaring at each other. She didn’t even care about the pain in her throat right now. If only because she wasn’t going to give Silver the satisfaction of seeing her fail to this, she wasn’t about to lose here.

As such, before she knew it, she hit the last noodle. Now all that was left was the broth. It looked like Silver Spoon had hit the same point. The two of them picked up their bowls and began drinking the broth at the same time, Silver Spoon clearly forgoing class at the moment in her desire to beat Starlight.

song: Daydream - Blue Reflection Second Light*

In the end, both of them slammed their bowls down at the same time glaring at each other, “I WIN!!!” they both shouted at the same time.

The two girls heard a click beside them, and both turned to Diamond, who had her phone out, “Congrats, you two!” she got up and hugged them, “I knew at least one of us was going to win!”

song: Like a Dream Come True - Persona 4

“Um, D-Diamond…?” Silver asked, “W-what did you do, on your phone…?”

“Took a picture of you two winning, of course~” Diamond pulled up her facebook account and showed them the picture. Starlight had to admit, she looked really cool in the picture. Begrudgingly, so did Silver Spoon.

“You already posted it?!” Silver cried, “B-b-but, then others will see, Starlight and I…!” Silver took off her gloves and then buried her face with her hands, whimpering in frustration.

“Looks like you guys are already getting a ton of hits, too,” Diamond noted, “You’ll be the talk of the school tomorrow!”

“Damn it all to hell…” Silver muttered, “People are going to start thinking she and I are… friends!”

Starlight’s chest felt like it was on fire, but she was glowing with pride. Thanks to Diamond being there, and her winning the first challenge, Starlight felt a good bit more popular. Also, by some miracle, Starlight felt like she and Silver Spoon got significantly closer.

“Congratulations on winning the challenge,” Izumi said walking up to the group, “Is, what I have to say to the two of you,” she bowed to Starlight and Silver, but then reached into her bosom and pulled out the bill, handing it to Diamond, “This however, is for you.”

“Oh, what I always wanted,” Diamond muttered dryly, “The bill…”

Starlight couldn’t help herself. She and Silver both laughed a bit at that. Despite everything weighing on Starlight, this was a fun day.

She turned to where Luna was sitting, and saw the older woman bow to her smiling. Starlight bowed subtly to her as well. This ended up being a solid day after all.

end song

Evening

Starlight bid her friends farewell (Well, Diamond Tiara. Silver was not her friend,) and began making her way back toward the dorm. She’d probably hang out there for the rest of the day, relaxing as she prepared to enter the Phase. Diamond seemed like she had a bit of time, but she didn’t want to take any chances.

But this was good, seeing how people behaved when they had Dungeons forming. She met Diamond before she had any contact with the Shadows, and now she knew for certain that Diamond was forming one in Elysium. She could use this as a means of seeing the behavior of Dungeons, see how they grew, and how Diamond’s behavior-

What? No no no! Diamond wasn’t some guinea pig! Diamond was her friend, and she was in mortal danger! Even if the dreams were still good dreams, that could change in an instant! They needed to reach the floor her Dungeon was forming as soon as possible!

It was getting late. The sun was starting to set, making the sky turn orange. Starlight didn’t want to risk missing curfew, even if Ms. Tia was cool, so she began to search for a shortcut back to the dorm. She quickly found what looked like an alleyway she could cut through. It was risky, but at this rate, she’d be late getting home.

So she took a deep breath, and went into the alleyway.

It was just as dark and ominous as Starlight thought it was. The further she went in, the more she was beginning to think Ms. Tia’s disapproving glare at being late would have been better than anything she’d experience here. At least that she could survive. Anything that happened here could have easily resulted in her being assaulted, possibly even killed!

And she was almost certain she was being watched.

song: Troubled - Persona 3

The alleyway turned into a semi more open area, and she stole a glance. Sure enough, she saw a guy wearing a black jacket, blue jeans, boots, and a choker around his neck. He looked like he was part of a gang.

She took a breath and sped up a bit, noticing a few others like him stalking her. All of them were wearing chokers, the same black jacket, and she could see one of them at least was holding a rope. She felt like she was prey being stalked by predators.

Oooooh, how she wished she could summon Morgana in the real world right now. She nursed her Channeling Ring, praying to whatever higher power was up there that she’d get out of here safely.

Right when she could see the exit in sight, she saw it sudden blocked by two gang members, both of them eyeing her, licking their lips lecherously. She backed away from them only to bump into a much bigger member of this gang, who held her shoulders and smirked at her.

“Well well well, what do we have here?” one of the skinnier members said leering at Starlight, “You look lost, little girl.”

“I’m, just passing through,” Starlight said, her heart racing.

“Oh, you’re passing through, alright,” another said leaning into her, “Passing through our territory.”

Oh shit. They were a gang…

“Tiny, hold her still,” the one with the rope said, walking up to her and brandishing it, licking his lips, “Let’s have some fun with this one while we wait for the boss to finish with his 'meeting'.”

The big buy, ironically named Tiny, grabbed her wrists just as the panic was beginning to set in. Not knowing what else to do, Starlight let out a loud scream just as the one with the rope was beginning to-

“Let. Her. Go.”

song: Maya's Theme - Persona 3

All of them froze, as Starlight heard a familiar voice. One she was surprised to hear. She turned to the side to see who it was, only to get the shock of a lifetime.

It was Rarity. She looked more or less the same as always, wearing the same purple and white blazer, short purple skirt, black leggings, and purple high heels. Her face was made up in the same blue eye shadow and purple lipstick, but there was something very different about her.

For one, her purple and white blazer was open, and her white blouse was partially unbuttoned, revealing the middle of a purple lacy bra. Her neck tie was undone, hanging over her collar. And while she still stood with the same grace and poise Starlight recognized, something about the air she gave off now. She looked like a beast ready to strike at any moment.

The one with the rope laughed as Rarity sauntered over to him, “So now you think you can order us around? Sorry, but you ai-”

Rarity grabbed him by the neck and squeezed, digging her purple nails into his neck and glaring daggers into him.

“I'm trying to be nice,” she narrowed her eyes, gritting her teeth, “Let me keep being nice, please.”

Starlight's gaze was locked on Rarity, and her heart raced. It looked like what little control she had was waning. As if at any moment, she'd actually kill him.

“Do as she says, boys,” another voice said, this one male. Starlight looked back at where Rarity came from, seeing a young man about Rarity’s age standing there, leaning against a doorway. He wore the same black jacket as the others, and the same choker, but he also wore a cap, and had baggy black pants on along with black boots. He wasn’t wearing a shirt underneath the jacket, revealing a pretty toned body, but Starlight also noticed, his pants were slightly undone, and he looked super relaxed.

Her eyes darted back to Rarity and then to the newcomer, who felt like their leader. No way. Did, Rarity…

“But Boss, this girl’s in our territory!” the one with the rope protested, “’Sides, ain’t like she got a say in-”

The “Boss” had approached the one with the rope and headbutted him, knocking him to the ground.

“What is it I’m always tellin' you punks? Take too much from the bowl, and we end up back in the pound!” he growled, snapping his finger, “Tiny, release the goth bitch.”

Tiny released Starlight immediately, and Rarity let go of the guy she was choking. Starlight ran into Rarity’s arms immediately, holding onto her tightly as Rarity rubbed her back comfortingly.

“It’s alright, darling,” Rarity said softly, “You’re safe now.”

“Make sure your little pet there knows where it’s safe to walk and where it ain’t,” the Boss said to Rarity, “Next time she walks into Diamond Dog territory, I won’t be so nice.”

Rarity narrowed her eyes at him, “I’ll take care of her. But what I said before stands. Hurt any of my students, Rover, and you will regret it.”

Rover barked out a laugh, “Whatever you say, Rares! Let’s go, boys. We need to have a bit of a talk about things going forward.” The rest of the gang members walked back into what was apparently their base, but Rover lingered a bit, “Come back soon. The dogs really miss you, as do the boys,” he said more sobered before walking inside.

Rarity took a breath, “Come Starlight. Let’s get you back to the dorm.”

Starlight nodded quickly, letting Rarity guide her out of the alleyway and to safety. The walk was in silence. Starlight did have a ton of questions for Rarity, but right now she didn’t have the strength to, and she had a feeling that Rarity wouldn’t give much of an answer.

“Looks like we made it just before curfew,” Rarity said when they arrived at the dorm, “Still, we did cut it close. If Ms. Tia gives you a hard time, you can tell her you were with me, darling. I’ll cover for you.”

“T-thank you,” Starlight said demurely, “Um, about, what just happened, I-”

end song

“Nothing happened,” she said, her eyes narrowing ever so slightly, “Understood?”

Starlight nodded quickly, dropping the subject right then and there. She felt like she needed to tell Twilight about this at least, as this could have been a clue as to where her Akashic Records were kept, but something about her tone brokered no argument.

“Good,” Rarity smiled, kissing Starlight on the forehead, “I’ll see you at Student Council, darling.”

And with that, Starlight watched as Rarity strode away, her walk denoting grace and strength as usual. She really felt like a powerful beast in a human’s body, and the way she handled that gang just now…

This is my ideal person, and I wear her so others can’t see who’s really underneath, and most of all, so I don’t have to see her either.

Just now, did Starlight get a small glimpse, of the real Rarity…?

Surprisingly, Twilight was already up when Starlight got inside. Everyone was gathered in the living room, but all looked at Starlight when she entered suddenly.

“There you are!” Trixie cried shooting up, “I was just about to call you!”

“Y-you were?” Starlight asked softly.

“We were getting worried when you didn’t come home,” Trixie said, Pinkie Pie apparently running into the kitchen to get Ms. Tia, “Ms. Tia got a bad feeling, and was preparing to head out to look for you.”

Starlight looked down, biting her lip. Just now, she was almost, she didn’t even know WHAT was going to happen to her. All she knew, was seeing her friends so concerned for her safety, it was hitting her that she was safe, and it was becoming very hard to hold in her tears.

“Hey, um, you okay Leader…?” Dash asked, slowly approaching Starlight. Before she could say anything, Ms. Tia came out of the kitchen and ran over to Starlight.

“Oh thank heavens!” she cried, wrapping her arms around Starlight.

“Ms. Tia…!” Starlight wrapped her arms around her, crying into her chest.

“Is Starlight okay…?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“I don’t think so,” Trixie said, rubbing Starlight’s back.

Twilight looked at this, and sucked in a breath, wiping her glasses. From what Starlight could see, even she was relaxed now knowing she was okay.

“I’ll talk to her,” Ms. Tia said, “For right now, just try to relax everyone. She’s here with us, so we can all rest easy.”

“Just in case, I’ll keep my terminal set up,” Twilight said after a bit, “But let me know in advance if we’re still going in or not.”

Starlight bit her lip, but nodded. She wanted to still go in, but right now, she wasn’t sure if it was a good idea.

song: Xion's theme - Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days

Celestia brought Starlight up to her and Trixie’s room, where they sat down on Starlight’s bed and talked. She didn’t go into too much detail, but she did mention how she was almost assaulted by a gang calling themselves the Diamond Dogs.

“Oh honey,” Celestia wrapped her arms around Starlight, “That was incredibly reckless. Thank heavens you aren't hurt.”

“I’m sorry,” Starlight said softly, “I lost track of time being with Diamond and Silver, and I didn’t want to miss curfew.”

“I’d have forgiven you for being a bit late,” Celestia chided lightly, “These things happen. I’m not a slave driver. At least, I try not to be,” she joked lightly, making Starlight laugh a bit, “The important thing here, is that you’re not hurt.”

“Y-yeah…” Starlight looked away a bit.

“You, aren’t, right?” Celestia asked, noticing how Starlight tensed apparently.

Starlight assured Celestia she was okay. And she was. She was just, not sure how to tackle a certain subject. The subject of why she was okay. She had to tell someone about this, but Ms. Tia was still school staff, and she was having a rough time as it was with Cinch.

“Whatever it is, you can tell me,” Celestia said, lifting Starlight’s chin, “I won’t be upset. Promise.”

“It’s not that,” Starlight shook her head, “The one who saved me, they, don’t want anyone to know about it,” Starlight looked away a bit, “And I’ll admit, it does kind of make this person look… questionable.”

“Is this person, a friend of yours from school?” Celestia asked Starlight, who gave a hesitant nod, “Are you worried about Cinch finding out?”

“Yes, I am,” Starlight said immediately, “Also, this is someone I really admire, and I do not want to get them in trouble. Especially after they saved my life. But, this information, it might be connected to…” she rubbed her Channeling Ring.

Celestia took a breath and slowly nodded, “That narrows it down a bit.”

“Did, Twilight tell you…” Starlight asked.

“All she told me is that she’s looking into a Dungeon, and that the two of you would tell me more details when you found them,” Celestia looked at Starlight intently, “And I imagine, you have those details.”

Starlight nodded, and went into said detail. How Rarity’s Dungeon snuck up on her on Pinkie Pie’s birthday party, how she was assaulted by the Diamond Dogs, and how Rarity stopped them. She also went into how it seemed like they knew Rarity, and how there were signs that Rarity might have had sex with the leader.

When she finished, Celestia folded her arms and looked down, “Well, I understand you not wanting to tell anyone about this right after saving Pinkie Pie, but I do wish you’d told me about this sooner.”

“S-sorry Ms. Tia,” Starlight winced.

“I’m not mad, dear. Don’t worry,” she assured her, “But, I will admit, this doesn’t look good. You’re certain that it looked like Rarity had slept with the leader of this gang?”

“Her top was open, and her tie was undone,” Starlight said, “Also, their leader, Rover I think, his pants were partially undone.”

“Mmmmm, that does imply things…” Celestia grumbled, “I’ll admit, as a member of the faculty, I should report this…”

Starlight closed her eyes and groaned softly.

“But, as a member of the Kirijo Group, this information could lead to us uncovering Shadow related activity,” Celestia gave Starlight a sideways smile, “As such, it’s classified.”

Starlight sighed in relief, and thanked Ms. Tia.

“You’re welcome. But, I’m going to want you to continue investigating this,” Celestia said, “If this does lead us to Rarity’s Dungeon, we’re going to need more information, and with you not having any classes with her, Student Council is your best bet to get said information.”

Starlight nodded, saying she’d do what she could to get that information. She then asked Ms. Tia what they should do about Elysium tonight.

“I’ll, leave that to your discretion,” Celestia decided after a bit, “Personally, I’d rather you not go, as your Persona’s abilities can shift due to your mental state, and you’re a bit frazzled at the moment.”

That was true. Also, it seemed like Diamond still had time. She decided to talk it over with her team.

“Very good,” Celestia smiled, kissing Starlight on the forehead, “Let’s talk in the kitchen, and discuss what we’re going to do.”

Starlight nodded, following Celestia back downstairs. It was a relief knowing that everyone was aware of the Shadows now, so she didn’t need to hide anything from them. Time to come clean, and tell them, everything.

song: Riku's Theme - Kingdom Hearts 2

Starlight gathered everyone into the kitchen, and told them everything. Thankfully no one was mad at her for keeping so much from them.

“I didn’t think my first actual Dungeon would be Rarity’s…” Pinkie Pie said, looking down worried.

“Pinkie Pie, do you know anything about Rarity?” Twilight asked, pouring herself a cup of coffee, which still threw Starlight for a loop. It was after eight at night, and she was just NOW drinking her morning coffee.

“Sorry, but no,” Pinkie Pie shook her head, “First time I ever met her was during a holiday gathering three years ago. Fleur and I went to visit Applejack and her family, and Rarity was just, there.”

“She was just, there?” Trixie asked, sitting beside Starlight and holding her hand comfortingly.

Pinkie Pie nodded, “Uh huh! Everyone told me to more or less treat Rarity like a member of the family. She seemed nice once she relaxed a bit, but no one would say anything about where she came from. Just that they were effectively adopting her.”

“Yeah, she’s kind of a mystery at school,” Rainbow Dash added, “No one knows where she came from, and she never talks about her past. Far as I can tell, her only friends are in the Student Council, and even then, I’m pretty sure the only one she considers a friend is No Fun Jackie.”

“I didn’t even have real extended contact with Rarity until she started looking into the abuse,” Trixie admitted, “Before then, she was kind of, unapproachable. I imagine it’s like that for a lot of students.”

“What of this gang? The Diamond Dogs?” Celestia asked, “Do any of you know about them?”

“Now those guys I know about,” Rainbow Dash said, “They were all on the news for a while back.”

“They kinda sorta acted like they owned the area,” Trixie said, “For the most part, they were just trouble makers, but they didn’t really do anything overt, you know?”

“I take it, that changed?” Starlight asked.

“Trixie nodded, “And super suddenly, too. It was like one day, they escalated to bigger and bigger things, till one day they robbed Tartarus Bank.”

Starlight noticed Rainbow Dash narrowed her eyes subtly at that name. She was curious about that, but felt it was better to leave it be for now.

“That was really the last time any of them were heard from,” Pinkie Pie said, “I heard that the police arrested them, and all of the members got sent to juvie.”

“Juvie?” Twilight frowned, “How old were they?”

“That’s the thing. They were all in their early teens at the time,” Pinkie Pie explained.

Starlight was wide eyed. Early teens? She did notice that their leader seemed around Rarity’s age at the oldest. But to be such a notorious gang, at such a young age. What did their parents think of this? Come to think of it, where were their parents?

“Concerning Rarity’s Dungeon, I think we should start with investigating this angle,” Celestia said, “It isn’t much, but it’s the best lead we have.”

“I’ll see if I can find us another lead,” Starlight offered.

“Good,” Twilight said, “Because while I’m good, and can piece together a bit of what’s happening here, the information is too vague to pinpoint an exact location.”

“So, what are we doing about the Tower?” Dash asked, “Like, are we going in or what?”

“If you need to take some more time to recover, we can wait, Starlight,” Trixie said, “None of us are going in without you.”

Starlight looked up at Twilight, asking what her take on this was.

“Personally, I’d rather we not, go in tonight,” Twilight said turning away, “Both for your mental health, and also so I can work on this without any interruptions.”

“Besides, it sounds like from what you said, Diamond’s got plenty of time,” Pinkie said, “I remember when I was at this phase of my Dungeon. It lasted at least a month before things started to get bad, and even then, another few month or two before Fleur started making decisions for me.”

Starlight looked down, reaching out to her Persona, to ask for her opinion.

“We should wait, my pupil. I can feel your magic, and it is somewhat erratic. Let us take time to rest, and gather ourselves.”

Starlight nodded, “Let’s, take a rain check on exploring Elysium today,” she said, “I might enter the Phase to do some reading in the Records, but no Shadow Hunting.”

She noticed everyone breathed out in relief. Seemed she made the right decision here.

“In that case,” Celestia clapped her hands together, “I’ll get started on dinner.”

“Ms. Tia, everyone, thank you,” Starlight said looking down, “I, I appreciate you all so much.”

“Your safety is what matters to us most,” Celestia said, hugging Starlight from behind.

“Hey, why don’t we all hang out in our room and play video games together?” Pinkie Pie offered, “It’s big enough where we won’t be crowded.”

Trixie shrugged, “Alright. I can at least watch.”

“You too, Mission Control,” Rainbow Dash said to Twilight, who just scoffed, “You’re joining us.”

“Didn’t you hear the part where I’m working on finding that Dungeon?” Twilight shot back.

“Ah, you can do that when we go to sleep,” Rainbow Dash waved her off, “Till then, you’re hanging with us.”

“Ms. Tia, please help me…” Twilight groaned, “Tell them I’m doing important work.”

“Sorry honey, but you need to start socializing with others,” Celestia laughed lightly, “Until they all go to bed, you’re banned from the computer room.”

Twilight pursed her lips and folded her arms. Pinkie Pie then grabbed Twilight in a hug.

“Yes! We’re going to have so much fun, Bestie~!” she beamed. Twilight rolled her eyes and sighed.

“Oh never mind,” she gave up.

As everyone filed out of the kitchen, Starlight thanked Celestia again and stepped out of the kitchen, only for Trixie to wrap her arms around her tightly.

“I’m so happy you’re okay,” Trixie said softly.

“Trixie…” Starlight said softly, slowly returning the hug.

“You’re my best friend, Starlight,” she continued, tightening the embrace, “If anything happened to you, I…”

“I’m safe now, Trixie,” Starlight smiled, “Safest place in the world, is here in your arms.”

Starlight took a chance, and opened herself up to take in Trixie’s emotions.

I wish I’d been there with you, Starlight. With my magic, maybe I could have kept you safe…

Once again, Starlight found herself tearing up a bit. Now she knew for certain. Whatever they ended up becoming, Trixie genuinely cared for her beyond just her being her hero.

She was beginning to think this crush was something more.

end song

Late Night

She spent the night in the Akashic Records mostly reading, but she did pay the Velvet Room a visit while she was there. After buying a few old Personas back and fusing them, she ended up with one of the Death Arcana called Matador, a new Persona of the Justice Arcana named Angel (which for some reason was wearing BDSM gear…), and Orobas, a weird upright horse looking Persona of the Hierophant Arcana.

Afterward, she bought back Morgana, because she would always keep her default with her, and went to Persona Harvesting. That always made Starlight cringe a bit. Igor assured her that the Personas Morgana “ate” didn’t hold any ill will toward her, but she still felt kinda bad. Considering Morgana got powered up afterward though, it paid off afterward. After harvesting Yaksini, Shiki-Ouji, and Makami, she managed to fully fill out Morgana with skills.

She didn’t know what they’d be facing in the next Dungeon, so better safe than sorry.

She stayed with them for a bit, only taking her ring off when she was certain she was ready to face the day. Hopefully she didn’t oversleep.

*This is the victory theme I hear in combat.

The Transformation Arcana isn't from standard Tarot. It's from the Osho Zen Tarot Deck, acting as a rebranding of the Death Arcana.

Fool – Seekers of Light: 5/10
Magician – Trixie Lulamoon: 6/10
Priestess – Diamond Tiara: 5/10
The Empress – Ms. Tia: 3/10
The Lovers - Pinkamena Diane Pie: 1/10
Chariot – Rainbow Dash: 2/10
The Devil – Silver Spoon: 3/10 LEVEL UP!!!
Hermit – Sunburst: 1/10
Transformation - Ms. Luna: 1/10 ESTABLISHED!!!

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