Working With Phantoms

Burn in Hell

Madran's group entered the Red Sprite via the Universe door to see Zelenin seemingly waiting patiently for them.

"We're back! What now?"

"The strike team is heading out soon, so, if you want to catch them, then I'd suggest leaving as well."

"Sure. Also, if you're just the lead scientist, then who's the commander here?"

"Hello. I am Arthur."

Madran jumped at the sudden, computer-like voice ringing out throughout the bridge.

"Huh? Who're you?"

"I am the AI computer in charge of all operations on the Red Sprite. I cannot find any records of you or your group, Madran. What shall I call you?"

"Madran's fine."

"Very well. Welcome onboard, Madran. I look forward to the successful completion of your mission."

"Huh, thanks. Well, Arthur, some of my group are heading out, and some are staying. Do you have any jobs needed?"

"If the persona-users staying could follow Zelenin down to Engineering, then that would be greatly appreciated."

"Why Engineering?"

"Zelenin expressed interest at the ability to conjure a persona, and she wishes to see what exactly causes that reaction."

"Hmm. Well, who's staying?"

Rosana, Sheila, and Maya stepped forwards, with Madran nodding.

"Ok, guys, have fun! Zelenin, please, treat them well."

"Don't worry, Madran, no harm will come to them."

Madran nodded and went with the rest of her group.

"Ok, everyone, let's show these guys what we can do!"

Madran then led Philemon, Suga, Elia, and Chicory down to the entrance of the Red Sprite, which was already vacant. Right as they exited, everyone's Metaverse clothes, aside from Philemon, flashed on through blue flames.

"Woah, you're here?"

Madran looked to see someone in Demonica standing by the hatch.

"Yeah, what about it?"

"Oh, I just thought that Jimenez was being weird."

"Eh, whatever. Dharma, scan!"

Madran then summoned Dharma and began a scan.

"Ok, well, that source doesn't seem to have moved. Let's get going, guys."

Madran then began to guide her group down through Fornax.

"So, is the entire area just these similar-looking hallways?"

"I'd hope not. It's a wonder that everyone on the Red Sprite haven't lost their minds yet."

Madran then picked up a few demons near them and spotted a few Decarabias and one Kaiwan floating towards them.

"Sun's up, guns up! Here they come!"

Madran then hit the demons with a Deathbound before they could do anything, which knocked the Decarabias down. Chicory then attacked the Kaiwan with a Freidyne, which allowed for an All-Out Attack, ending the fight.

"Ok, nice job. Let's keep a move on."

Madran then passed by what looked to be someone in Demonica lying on the floor.

"Oh, hold on, are you ok?"

Madran squatted next to the person with Dharma putting a few fingers to their neck.