Welcome back, this time we're getting the third team together and take on a Dusk Circle! (Sigh, due to the already large similarities to both Persona 3 and 4, we're going to handle dungeon crawling like we do in the Megaten Demonologist Let's Plays of the aforementioned games.) A general summary of the end results and skipping reporting on all battles except for those involving a boss. (An alternate title for this post would be "De-javu Time"... But, anyway, boo-ya! It's going to be fighting time!)
Warning: This game is rated M for mature for Fantasy Violence,
Language, Mild Blood, Partial Nudity, and Sexual Themes. If any of the
following offends you, don't click the link to pass the jump break you
have been warned.
----------------------------------------------------
(So, who's going to be the mother of the third... Oh, right, that near future labyrinth where we're going to need Ellie's Star Children. Got it!) (Figures, a strange heroine for a strange "hero"...)
'1st-Year Class'
Ellie: Whew. Well, I should head home.
Shimo: Ellie, are you about to leave?
Ellie: Yes. Hello, Shimo... I have to leave immediately once class is over. I have Church work from then on.
Shimo: I see. You must be busy.
Ellie: Not as much as you, though.
Shimo: My work?
(She means fighting monsters and conceiving Star Children.) (*arms over head* Whoa! We didn't need to know that!) (Dude, that's the point of the game.) (*sigh* Just... Stop treating life like it's some stupid game...)
Ellie: That's right, you're currently working right now, too.
Shimo: Are you talking about how I'm...
-...killing time?-
-...chatting with you?-
-...chasing girls?-
-Give a gift.-
It's not the first one, and the last one more describes Chlotz. So...
Shimo: ...chatting with you?
Ellie: Mmhmm, that's your job. You have to hang out with me so we can strengthen the bond between us. That's why I want you to never hesitate to talk with me like this.
Okay.
Shimo: Oh, so that's what you meant.
Pretty understandable with context. (Of course you'd think that.)
Ellie: I'm not exactly sure what all this bond stuff is supposed to mean. Am I right in thinking that it's about having fun chatting with each other?
I'd like to think it works like that.
Shimo: Yeah, I think so.
Ellie: Then I'll try my best to think about fun things while I'm talking with you. Talking with you when thinking bad thoughts would just make the conversation dull.
Indeed...
Ellie: I don't want you to think that I'm a dull girl, after all.
Of course I don't. (With those "stars" in her eyes, there's no way she can ever be normal.)
Shimo: I'll try to do the same. I don't want you to think I'm just a boring student, after all.
(It's more likely that she's going to think you're off your "proverbial" rocker.)
Ellie: Aheheh... There's no need to worry about that. You're not dull at all. I guarantee it.
I can believe that. But still...
Shimo: Is that so?
Ellie: Yes, I'm positive. So, please, come chat with me whenever you feel like it. Well, the sun's about to set, so I'm going to head home. Please be careful on your own way back, Shimo... Excuse me.
(There she goes... And things went well! I know you have enough BP to make another Star Child but, let's not waste those two other hearts.) ...Maybe I can hang with Patty, Ian, and Nina's mom.
'School Entrance'
Shimo: Are you heading back right now, Fuuko?
Fuuko: Yep. Are you heading back too?
Shimo: Yeah. Why don't we walk together?
Fuuko: Huh? Oh, okay. We are heading in the same direction, after all.
Shimo: Alright, let's go.
Fuuko: Okay.
(On the way to the dorms...)
Shimo: So, where did you live before you came here, Fuuko?
Fuuko: Me? Oh, just a normal old city. It's located on the coast of the main continent. It was a pretty peaceful place.
The "was" in that sentence doesn't sound good...
Fuuko: As far as I know, there were never any threats from Nests or Circles around there.
Shimo: Sounds like a good place.
Fuuko: Yeah. It's the kind of place where you could always see kids running around.
Shimo: I see. So that's why you...
-...are so peaceful.-
-...look so healthy.-
-...are so normal.-
-Give a gift.-
(Well...) Don't,
only you'd consider "normal" a compliment. But given how she described
her "home town" as "peaceful" I think the best option would be...
(Nope, she treats that like it's an insult. Go for the "healthy" option.) Wouldn't that sound like I'm a creep? (Only one way to find out!)
Shimo: ...look so healthy.
(Wait, is she going to treat that like an insult as well!?)
Fuuko: I guess. I'm pretty serious about staying healthy.
*sigh of relief* (Well, she did say something about being good at swimming...)
Fuuko: I think the sickest I've ever been was only a cold.
(Well, at least she's smart enough to catch one.) ...Nice multicultural joke Akurei.
(*bowing to imaginary audience* Thank you everyone!)
Fuuko: Well, you could say that I'm just really normal, since I've never been really sick... But I'm glad to be normal in that respect. Your health is pretty important.
'Women's Dorm'
Fuuko: Oh, we're at the dorms already. I didn't even notice while we were talking. Well, see you tomorrow.
Shimo: Yeah, later.
(Well, that had a much better result...) (Shimo, if I have to be "reborn" as a Star Child, can Fuuko please be my mother?) *sigh* Niyagi, I'm not so sure that would happen, what with your fanatic worship of Tall Poppy Syndrome... (Anyway, before Shimo gets to Classmating, why not spend some time with his favorite heroine? My mom... In this universe at least...)
'2nd-Year Class'
Shimo: I wonder if Narika's still in there.
Female Disciple A: ...And that's why I came to ask you instead.
Narika: I don't know... This is all very sudden...
Female Disciple A: We'll help you as much as we can. Please...!
Narika: What should I do...?
Female Disciple A: So it's settled! I want you to put something together to present by the next conference. I look forward to seeing what you come up with, Vice Class Rep!
Narika: No, wait!
(Let me guess, you have to help Mom deal with that problem.)
Narika: Oh no... What do I do?
Shimo: What's up, Narika?
(Figures...)
Narika: Oh, Shimo.
Shimo: You look like something's bothering you. What's wrong?
-Do you have a stomachache?-
-Got something important to do?-
-Forget to do your homework?-
(Not the first one and there's no way in heaven it's ever going to be the last one.) Indeed so...
Shimo: Got something important to do?
Narika: Yes... I'm in way over my head. I have no idea how I'm going to handle this.
Shimo: If you need help, just let me know. I'd be happy to speak in public for you if you need me to.
Narika: Thank you... But it has to be me this time.
Shimo: What's got you so worried?
Narika: Well, there's a Strategy Conference coming up that's hosted by the student council. And I have to participate in it as the second-year representative.
Shimo: Strategy Conference?
(Remember, for fighting monsters and all that...it?) (...Wow. I can't believe just being near your "mother" is enough for you to avoid cussing.)
Narika: They were started to improve the conditions under which we fight the monsters... Disciples share their ideas and the members debate over which plan to use. Each grade sends a representative from the Elite class to present their ideas. After the debate, the whole school votes on which plan to use. Each grade's rep is supposed to be the representative at the conference...
(But our usual rep can't make it for some reason, so it has to be you instead, Mom?)
Narika: But our class rep got sick.
(Thought so.)
Shimo: And that's why you, as our vice class rep, have to do it?
Narika: Yes. I'm getting nervous just thinking about it... Everyone will be watching! What... should I do?
Shimo: Well...
-Why don't you fake sick?-
-I dunno what you expect me to do.-
-You'll just have to tough it out.-
Well, the first option is outright bad... (The second is... "meh".) ...and the last one seems to be a "cruel to be kind" option. (...Let's go with "cruel to be kind". Mom could use a bit more backbone.) (I don't know if that's going to work as you intend it to...)
Shimo: You'll just have to tough it out. You've just have to do your duty as the class vice rep.
Narika: Yes. I suppose you're right.
(Uh... Narika doesn't sound happy at all.)
Narika: I know I have to, but I just don't feel very confident about it.
Shimo: You really want out of the conference that bad?
Narika: It's not that... It's just that I've always found public speaking hard. I get so nervous that I end up losing track of what I'm saying.
Shimo: You're pretty sensitive, aren't you?
Narika: No, I'm just faint-hearted. And if I lose it at the conference, it won't be good for anyone. I have to do something... but what!?
-I'll try to think of something.-
-I wouldn't mind helping...-
-Narika, calm down.-
As I've said before, I'd do anything to help you...
Shimo: I wouldn't mind helping...
Narika: Thank you so much. I'll feel much more comfortable with it.
Shimo: Hey, what if I did the conference with you?
Narika: Um... With me?
Shimo: Maybe you lose your confidence because you're all alone when you speak.
Narika: Hmm... Maybe. I might be a little less nervous with you nearby... But I don't want to put you out.
Put me out? Nonsense, I said it before and I'll say it again... (As a matter of fact, I can still see when you did say it before.) ..."I'll do anything to help you"!
Shimo: Don't worry about it. If it's all right with you, I'm happy to give you some support. So let's wow 'em at the conference!
Narika: We will... Thank you very much. Hm... I'll see if I can get them to let you in as a scribe.
Shimo: The Strategy Conference... I'd better make sure Narika has my full support, so she doesn't feel so nervous...
(Uh, Shimo, I'm sure that's supposed to be an "inside your head" thought.) (That's a pretty good result! Now you'd better get some Classmating going on! ...At the Church.) With Ellie using a basic Matryoshka.
'Ritual Hall'
Shimo: This is the first time we've Classmated, isn't it?
Ellie: I-Indeed.
(Well, at least she's strange enough to use the word "indeed" like you do. Maybe you two are meant to be?)
Ellie: I don't like being touched by people, so I don't know if this is going to work...
Oh dear...
Ellie: Um, would it be okay if I just held onto your shirt...?
(I don't know if that's going to work.) As you've said "There's only one way to find out"...
Shimo: Yeah, that's a good way to start.
Ellie: Whew... I'm glad to hear that. Oh, that doesn't mean I don't want to touch you or anything. I just don't like human contact in general. Please don't get the wrong idea from it.
Yeah, I understand... (Well, just like I "fanatically worship Tall Poppy Syndrome"; you, likewise, tend to cling to the idea that "Humans are bastards".) (Hence why I exist.) Well, part of it anyway.
Shimo: I understand. Well then, shall we?
Ellie: Y-Yes! I'll do my best!
(And... It still shows the same hand-holding stock footage that it always shows... Wait, there's a Magic Knight character class!? Can I be that when my current Magican form gains independance?) We'll see, for now I'm going with a Minstrel... (And it's a girl!) (Oh! How about you name her "Lenne"?) (Must you always come up with names with geeky origins...?) And, done! (*sigh* *facepalm*)
'CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW ARRIVAL'
Lenne: I'm counting on you, okay?
(Yo, Lenne! Welcome to the proverbial club. Still don't know what's up with that "FAMILY LOVE UP" card you and Madara came with...)
Ellie: ...Whew. Um, did I do well?
Of course you did, Lenne here's the proof of that.
Shimo: Yes, we created a Star Child. There's no need to be worried.
Ellie: Whew... I'm relieved that I have the power to create Star Children, too... Um... Does our Star Child look normal?
Shimo: Huh? Why do you ask?
(I know you can't hear me but, Shimo's the absolute worst person to ask for judgement calls over what's "normal" or not.) (Besides, it's not like he really even cares about that sort of thing. He's the type to love all of his children, adopted or otherwise, no matter who or what they are!)
Ellie: N-Nothing, I'm just curious. It's good to hear that nothing's wrong. All right, I'm going to do my best with the Star Children we create! When you go into a Labyrinth, please invite me along.
Of course I will... (Eventually.) Rest, and it's time for a new day... (And time to hang around Ellie to make sure that Lenne's future siblings are stronger!)
'1st-Year Class'
Shimo: Good morning, Ellie. Looks like you weren't late today.
Ellie: Yes, I made it on time today. Still, is there something wrong? You came all the way to the first-year's classroom.
Shimo: I just wanted to chat with you. Am I bothering you?
Ellie: Oh no, not at all! I'm happy you took the time to come see me. Um... So, what did you want to talk about?
Shimo: Let's see... What were you doing before you came here?
Ellie: Before I came here?
(Something tells me this is going to be an answer that's anything but normal...)
Ellie: I lived in the metropolis of Shelgard, on the continent.
Shimo: Shelgard, huh... I've never been there before. What kind of place is it?
Ellie: Well... Shelgard is actually made up of six cities. Each city has a Cardinal presiding over one of the six elements. Each of those Cardinals governs that city.
(And I would not be surprised if it turns out that Ellie lived in the city governed by the Fire Cardinal.)
Ellie: I was a nun at the Aterra Gracia Grand Church.
(A nun...) (That's surprising in a way the Pansy didn't anticipate.)
Ellie: That's the church that presides over the element of Dusk.
(*growls*) And... We're right back where we started.
Shimo: Does that mean you're a member of the Church?
Ellie: Yes... It's embarrassing, but it's something like that. I don't seem anything like a nun, though. Aheheh...
Shimo: So, you're a nun, then?
(Yeah, that was kind of implied there.) I know, I'm just confirming what I heard was correct.
Shimo: Now that you mention it, you do have this air about you. Some kind of nobility...
Ellie: Huh? Me!? N-Nah... I'm far from being a lady...
(Kind of like the Monster.) *sigh* It's been made abundantly clear that you don't like Ellie, Niyagi... (Of course! What with her behavior not to mention those stars in her eyes, she's obviously not normal!)
Ellie: As you can see, I'm tiny and kind of a doofus, too...
-Oh, you are?-
-I guess you have a point...-
-That's not true.-
Well... For one thing, the second option's just plain nasty. (Although, those very traits, at least the "size" part is exactly the type... Of Shimo's little brother. Yes, he likes the Lolis!) *facepalm* Akurei, it's more like he likes the look of that. Anyway...
Shimo: Oh, you are?
Ellie: Well, I think I am, anyway. ...Oh, we're getting off-topic. Anyway, that's why I have to do some work for Gracia while I'm attending the Academy. A Star Brand appeared on me, after all.
Shimo: Then, you're still working for this Gracia Church? At the same time, you're a Disciple here at the Academy?
Ellie: That's a way of looking at it. That's why I show up late for class a lot. Aheh... I wonder if I'll manage to graduate from the Academy if this keeps up.
Shimo: That sounds rough. If there's anything I can do, feel free to ask. I'll help you.
Ellie: Thank you. But I can handle my work for Gracia on my own. It would make me happy if you could support me while we're in the Labyrinths, though. I'll be counting on you!
Shimo: Right. Let's both do your best. Here, let's start fresh and shake hands.
Ellie: Oh, right. I'll be counting on--
(Oh...!) (What...? ...WHAT!? You think an accidental Classmating's going to happen!?)
Ellie: Ah.
Shimo: ...What's wrong? Why did you pull your hand back?
Ellie: I-I'm sorry! It's not like I don't want to shake your hand. Um... I have very cold hands, and...
I wouldn't mind that.
Ellie: How do I put this...? I didn't want you to think I was cold-hearted.
(WHAT!? Not shaking hands would, in fact, be the "cold-hearted" thing to do!)
Shimo: That reminds me, you didn't want to be touched while Classmating, either.
(Wow, so the game's actually taking that into account. Well done Spike Chunsoft!) (Once again, the Monster's spouting nonsense that no one's going to understand...)
Ellie: Oh, yes... It's something like the same reason...
Shimo: Haven't you heard the saying?
-"Cold women are ice people."-
-"Cool chicks have cool hands."-
-"Cold hands, warm heart."-
Well, given what she said about not wanting to appear cold-hearted, I think it'd be best to say this... (Let's see how this works out.)
Shimo: "Cold hands, warm heart."
Ellie: Huh? Really?
Shimo: I think that's how it goes.
Ellie: Th-Thank you! If that's what you think, then I'll stop worrying about it, too. I see... So that means I have a warm heart. Aheheh, that makes me happy.
Shimo: By the way, what is it you do for Gracia?
Ellie: Uh... I'm sorry, but I can't say. I'm not allowed to tell people about it.
-Well, okay.-
-I shouldn't ask, then.-
-That makes me more curious!-
To be honest, I am curious; but if there's a perfectly good reason for keeping that information a secret...
Shimo: Well, okay.
Ellie: I'm sorry... But my work isn't anything that you have to worry about. I've been given orders to make investigating the Labyrinths a priority... So, I'd like to accompany you as much as you need me. You don't have to hold back. I may not look it, but I'm pretty tough.
Okay, I believe you.
Shimo: You sure are dependable. I'll make sure I do that, then.
Ellie: I'll try my best! Well then, I have to get to class, so please excuse me. It would make me happy if you'd come chat with me when you have time.
Shimo: Yeah, I'll do that.
Ellie: Aheheh... Well, then, please excuse me!
That went well. (Of course it did! You two are practically odd peas in a strange pod!) (Shimo, how about you make sure that Ellie's the Pansy's mother rather than Fuuko?) (What!? No!) Then stop trying to "one true pairing" ship Ellie and I!
(...How about we talk to Chloe for a bit?) Okay...
'Faculty Office'
Chloe: Oh, Shimo, welcome.
Female Disciple E: Hey! No cuts! Wait for your turn if you want to talk to Ms. Chloe.
Shimo: S-Sorry.
This seems familiar...
(That's probably because this happened in the last post.) (And, again, the Monster's saying stuff no one understands...)
Female Disciple E: The end of the line is way over there. You better git comfy.
Chloe: I'm sorry, Shimo.
Female Disciple E: Alright, where was I, Ms. Chloe? Right, my boyfriend called me, and he was like...
Is this the same boyfriend as last time? Or a new one?
Shimo: I can't believe this many people would go see their teacher at lunch.
...again.
Shimo: I wonder if Ms. Chloe even has time to eat... Hm? Is that a cup of instant noodles on her desk? I wonder if that's going to be enough for her...
-I should get her noodles ready.-
-I'll leave it as is.-
-I should go get her something.-
-Give a gift.-
Well, what I did last time worked. So, why not?
Shimo: I should go get her something.
'School Store'
Shimo: Excuse me. Can I get a sandwich and some milk?
Store Lady: There ya go!
Shimo: That should be enough. I gotta get back to the Faculty Room.
(...again.)
'Faculty Office'
Shimo: Ms. Chloe, I got you something for lunch.
Chloe: Thank you so very much!
(Later, at the aforementioned location...) (Yo, Lenne, this is first we've heard from you!)
Chloe: Alright guys, lunch is over, get to your next class.
Shimo: Shoot. Lunch is over.
Chloe: I'm sorry we didn't get a chance to talk.
Shimo: It's no problem. I'll come earlier next time.
Chloe: Sounds like a plan! See ya later.
(That... Went really well.) Now, if only I can have a similar level of success with Fuuko... (...Which is another thing that happened again.)
'School Entrance'
Shimo: Are you heading back right now, Fuuko?
Fuuko: Yep. Are you heading back too?
Shimo: Yeah. Why don't we walk together?
(And it's deja-vu all over again, in more ways than one.) (I know right, last time it was just an event that happens in a previous post. This time it's something that you can just scroll up to see the previous version!) (*facepalm* I wonder why I still expect you to make sense...)
Fuuko: Huh? Oh, okay. We are heading in the same direction, after all.
Shimo: Alright, let's go.
Fuuko: Okay.
(On the way to the dorms...)
Shimo: So, where did you live before you came here, Fuuko?
(Shouldn't you already know the answer to this one?) ...Okay, I was just bored.
Fuuko: Me? Oh, just a normal old city. It's located on the coast of the main continent. It was a pretty peaceful place. As far as I know, there were never any threats from Nests or Circles around there.
Shimo: Sounds like a good place.
Fuuko: Yeah. It's the kind of place where you could always see kids running around.
Shimo: I see. So that's why you...
-...look so healthy.-
-...are so normal.-
-...are so peaceful.-
-Give a gift.-
Well... (I say we do an "experiment" of our own.) Go on... (I was thinking of seeing if Fuuka actually would take kindly to be described as "normal".) Despite what Niyagi thinks about being normal, I highly doubt that. Well, I was kind of bored...
Shimo: ...are so normal.
(Hopefull Fuuko doesn't treat this like an insult...)
Fuuko: Hey, stop saying I'm so normal. Just because I lived in a normal city doesn't mean I'm totally boring or anything.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, proves just how out of touch Niyagi is with reality. (Bu-But... NORMAL'S A GOOD THING!) [sarcasm] Yeah, yeah, whatever you say... [/sarcasm]
Fuuko: I think the sickest I've ever been was only a cold.
(Well, at least she's smart enough to catch one.) ...Nice multicultural joke Akurei.
(*bowing to imaginary audience* Thank you everyone!) And this scene was also "seen" before. (*faceplam*)
'Women's Dorm'
Fuuko: Oh, we're at the dorms already. I didn't even notice while we were talking. Well, see you tomorrow.
Shimo: Yeah, later.
(Well, at least that didn't make her hate Shimo for saying that result.) (Shimo, seriously! Please let Fuuko be my mother if I have to be reborn as a Star Child!) *sigh* Niyagi... Considering your attitude this whole time plus that rather "odd" bit of logic you displayed there, I think it would be quite fitting if Ellie's your mother instead (What!? NO!!!) (Shimo heads toward the Church for some Classmating, but along the way...)
'Downtown'
Narika: Hello, Shimo.
Shimo: What's up, Narika?
Narika: Oh, I was just meeting up with a friend for Curaoke.
...again?
Shimo: You like to do Curaoke, Narika? That's kind of surprising.
Narika: My friend told me, "The only way to fix that shyness of yours is Curaoke!" I thought she might have a point, so I decided to go, though I'm not very good... Ohhh, I'm getting nervous just waiting. What if I can't sing? Do you think my friends will laugh at me?
Shimo: Don't worry about it. Just have fun and belt one out.
(Besides, Mom, if you're friends are laughing; they're most likely laughing with you, not at you.)
Narika: Yes, you're right. I have to remember that and calm down a bit. I'll try giving it my all.
Shimo: Haha, it's just like Narika to get nervous over a little Curaoke...
(*sigh* Once we finally get to the church...) Again, my partner is Ellie and we're using a basic Matryoshka...
(A bit of Classmating action later...) ...I'm thinking why not another female Cleric! (Yay!) And I know just what to call her... (Oh no...)
'CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW ARRIVAL'
Niyagi: I may not be much, but I will try my best.
(Why...? Why did I have to have GREEN HAIR!? *crying*) (Hey, Pansy, at least you're a "holy child" now...) (...A "holy child" with stupid green hair.) (Don't forget that mysterious "FAMILY LOVE UP" sign you're holding.) *sigh* ... (Let's go for that ninth Star Child!) (...) (So you can have a little sister you can look after.) (...Fine.) Well... It seems that your younger sibling's going to be a brother rather than a sister. (I know the namesake's blonde but, I say he should be a Gunslinger named "Vash"!) (Hey! This is MY little brother, not YOURS!) Do you have any better ideas? (...No.) Then it's settled!
'CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW ARRIVAL'
Vash: Leave it to me! I'll show 'em!
(You'll "show 'em"...what?) (The business end of his gun barrels, duh! But he's also showing us a "MONEY 1500 G" card! Awesome!) ("Sin of Avarice"!) That's just a synonym for "greed".
'You have 9 Star Children. You can now create a third team.'
And I'll do just that! So now the teams are... Team Patty! (Team Akurei!) (...and Team Niyagi.) Now, after we get some more supplies, we're going to go dunge... I mean "Labyrinth" crawling. (Yeah!) (...Meh.)
Clerk: Welcome. We have everything you could need.
What I'm aiming to buy is a bottle of Bond Powder, two Enemy Searches... Oh! And three Mana Stones! And "Yes" I am going to "buy everything selected". (Okay, now that we're all "kitted out" and all. Let's go do some dungeon crawling already!) Okay but... I forgot where I was supposed to go for that. (*facefault* ...Ruby said we should go to the Lab, so that would be the "Training Facility".) Well, here goes nothing...
[Insert Training Facility Tutorial here.]
Worker: Hey. You can use the simulator to take on Labyrinths you've sterilized.
Well, this is obviously the wrong place.
Worker: Come back whenever you want to train.
Next stop, the Comm Station! (You do realize that you said that out loud, right?)
[Insert Communication Facility and Blindmating Tutorials here.]
Officer: Ahh, God's Gift. Welcome.
... (What?) Niyagi, I don't care what the intentions are nor that I haven't brought this up 'till now but I've just got to say this. What with that other "explaining the joke" gag we did involving Ether, there's something I want to make abundantly clear: I AM NOT, GOD'S GIFT...TO WOMEN! (Well, of course, that's the kind of attitude that Daemon Spearmeister would assume. Speaking of whom, you'd think he'd flock to a world like this in a heartbeat; so, where is he? Me, I would not be surpised if he's riding that priest dude, Mattero.)
Officer: Classmate with heroines from other worlds online.
Nope, maybe latter...
Officer: Please come again.
Well, there is one thing we haven't tried yet. (*facepalm* Choosing "Proceed Story" back at the Academy...)
'Laboratory'
Mark: Hello, Shimo.
Yo, what's up?
Mark: If you're ready to go, shall I call for the Chief?
-I'm not ready yet.-
-Please do so.-
Shimo: Please do so.
(Of course we're ready to go! Let's go kick some monster ass already!) (*LOL*) (...Okay, that is kind of funny considering your little "insulting nickname" for me.)
Mark: Alright, I'll go get her. Wait here for a moment.
'Station'
Ruby: The day we send God's Gift into a Dusk Circle is finally here.
*sigh* What happened to calling me by name...
Ruby: We're all counting on you, Shimo.
Thank you...
Shimo: Understood.
Ruby: From here on out, you'll be traveling to the Dusk Circles using this ship.
Shimo: Wow, I've never seen anything like it.
It looks like an airship, but... (Why must the balloons look like beetles with the legs and head removed?) (Welcome to "The Weird Club", Pansy!) (I'd like to lose my membership to that "Club"...)
Mark: It's the world's fastest ride, made with the latest technology from AngelMarker. It's name is the E.S. Savage!
What does the "E.S." stand for? ("Ether Ship".) (Ew! Gross!) (Dude, Pansy, half of our current forms are made of Ether!) (But it's still gross!) *sigh* ...
Mark: It's the newest model, loaded with the Supernova Star Engine! The Supernova Star Engine takes in Ether from the atmosphere.
(That...) (Has really gross implications about this world we're in right now... Ew!) (I was going to say "...has awesome potential to squick out the Pansy." but you told my joke for me. Thanks!)
Mark: It uses it to amplify the passengers' Star Energy and convert it to propulsion power. You'll use this craft to reach the Dusk Circles all around the world. It runs completely on autopilot! Isn't it a dream come true?
Shimo: If Chlotz saw this, he'd go nuts.
Ruby: Alright, guys, get your inner children back under control.
(Ms. Ruby, Shimo here's ALWAYS been kind of a child...) Dude, Niyagi, don't go on another rant about how watching animated shows, reading comic books, and playing video games somehow means I haven't "grown up" yet...
Ruby: Who are you going to take into the Labyrinth with you?
(That's easy, my mother!) (You mean "Narika"?) Yeah... But don't worry Niyagi, next time I go to the Labyrinth, I'm going to bring Ellie. You're mom. (Even though I'd rather not be her... Star Child.)
Ruby: Very well. The other girls will be able to monitor you two over the communication gear. And don't try anything funny just because you're alone with her, okay?
Of course not! (We're hear to kick monster ass and chew bubblegum...) (But you didn't even get "bubblegum" with your "supplies"!) ...That was the joke.
Mark: Chief Ruby!
Ruby: I'm just trying to ease their tension.
(I think those two have already got that covered, thank you very much.) ([sarcasm] Aw... I think Shimo's hurt by the fact that you're referring to the father of our current forms in such a callous uncaring way... [/sarcasm]) (You don't really think that way, Monster.) Of course. But still... (*sigh* ...) ...Fair enough. Niyagi doesn't like abnormal things and I'm about as abnormal as they come...
Ruby: Well, good luck, you two!
([sarcasm] Great, more bloody tutorials... [/sarcasm])
[Insert Dusk Circle, Goals, and When in a Pinch tutorials here.]
(There's only one Dusk Circle we can visit at the moment. "The Lust Labyrinth.") (No surprise there...) Well, I'm not sure if what I'm seeing means that this Labyrinth has one floor out of a max total of four for any "Labyrinth"... (Or it this dungeon has four floors total and we can only access the first one for now) ...so, let's go find out!
Announcement: We will be arriving at the Dusk Circle momentarily. All personnel most change into battle attire before entering the Dusk Circle.
(It's transformation time!) (I thought you were going to say "Morphin' time".) (Actually, thanks for dropping the Power Rangers reference for me.) (Curse you, Monster!)
Shimo: The Dusk Circle...
Announcement: We are now entering the Dusk Circle. Please brace for impact.
(Inside the actual Dusk Circle...)
Shimo: We're here.
Narika: I'm a little scared... But I need to brace myself and do my best...
Shimo: Just like Mark said, there seems to be a maze inside.
Ruby: Shimo, it seems you've made it there safely.
Shimo: We're going to enter the Labyrinth now.
(Break a leg!) (Don't give us that, you're coming with us as well!) (...fine.)
Ruby: The deeper you go in, the stronger the Dusk Energy inside will become. Obviously, that means the monsters will be stronger as well, so be careful.
Shimo: Right.
[Insert Moving Through Labyrinths, Monster Symbols, and Gimmicks Tutorials here.]
Lust Labyrinth 1st Trip
(Man, we we so awesome we auto pwned the first few monsters! But when the first battle we have to fight happened, we got more tutorials!)
[Insert Battle Screen, Action Menu, Status (1/2), Status (2/2), Directional Areas, WEAK POINTs on Monsters, Turn Order and Action Cost (AC) Tutorials here.]
(See, aren't you glad we aren't typing the entirety of the tutorials any more?) (One aforementioned battle later...)
'There is a powerful presence on the next floor. Proceed?'
-Yes-
-No-
I suspect there's going to be a boss battle coming up. (I think we can handle it.) Okay, we're moving on...
- - -
Ruby: Shimo, you can wrap it up around there for now. We were able to monitor the ecology of the monsters within the Labyrinth as well.
(But then... This huge demonic looking monster shows up surrounded by a bunch of "Monster Symbols"...) (Cool...) (It's not cool! I think we're going to have to fight that thing!) (I didn't say anything about not wanting to fight it, actually, pwning a "demon" like this would just prove just how much of a badass magician I am!)
'Asmodeus'
Quite appropriate for the "Evil Spirit of Lust" to be the boss of the "Lust Labyrinth." (Well played, Spike Chunsoft, well played...)
Shimo: That monster... It doesn't feel the same as the other ones.
Which means he's the boss.
Narika: I-I'm scared...
Ruby: That's... Shimo! Get away from that monster, now!
Shimo: Huh?
Ruby: That's a Dusk Spawner! In other words, it's the boss of this Labyrinth. That aura you're feeling is Dusk Energy. That thing creates the monsters you fought. But to think it would be on an early floor like this... You have to get out of there!
Shimo: This thing is giving birth to more monsters...!? Chief, we have to defeat it!
First rule of dealing with monsters that spawn out of nothing, if you can find the monster spawner, destroy that first! (And you say you're not a blood knight...)
Ruby: Listen to me! The Dusk Spawners continually revive, no matter how many times you kill them! There's no way you can beat it now. Do not chase it down! Come back at once!
-To hell with that!-
-I can't back down now!-
-I will not run from the enemy!-
(That first option could've been written as "But I refuse!") (*blink* *blink* ... *facepalm*) Well...
Shimo: I can't back down now! This thing is the cause of so much suffering... It must be destroyed!
(I... I have to say, I agree with you.)
[Insert SKILLS and Speed Up, MECUNITE, TACTICS and AUTO PLAY, Status Ailments, Turning Back into Matryoshkas, Incapacitated Protagonist, and Wind Ups and Strong Attacks Tutorials here.]
(Stupid tutorial aside, it's our first boss battle! Let's kick ass!) First Narika and I are going to back attack Asmodeus!
'WEAK POINT 756 ATTACK'
(Then Asmodeus attacked Patty's team!) Patty! Follow Narika's and my lead!
'WEAK POINT 193 ATTACK'
(Okay, time to heal Patty's team...) (Well, the best attack spot is occupied by Patty's team, so it looks like we'll have to attack from the right side!)
'114'
(Damage dealt, of course.) Asmodeus goes to attack Akurei, Madara, and Thanatos; Narika and I intercept the attack. But... (Damn it! We still got injured!) (Looks like I'll have to heal the Monster's team...) (Dude, we're fine for now, just deal some damage!) (*sigh* If you insist...everyone, left-side attack!)
'75'
(Thanks Pansy, now WE can do the back attacking around here!)
'WEAK POINT 92 ATTACK'
*sweatdrop* Akurei, I think Patty's team, Narika and I should be sticking to the back attacks. (Aw man...) Speaking of which...
'WEAK POINT 630 ATTACK'
And... Asmodeus attack Patty's group again. Stay there and heal for now... (Great, you got our teams mixed up. Looks like we're going to have to back attack for now...)
'WEAK POINT 89 ATTACK'
Asmodeus attacks Patty's group yet again. You are so getting back attacked for this!
'WEAK POINT 630 ATTACK'
(Still need to heal Patty's group.) And... It seems that Asmodeus really has it out for Patty and her team... Stay where you are and attack! Niyagi and Madara will keep you healed! While you're at it, why not use Flick to be more precise.
'423'
(*sigh* Madara, looks like it's your turn to heal, I highly doubt my Blaze spell's going to be in any way useful against Admodeus...) As I suspected, Asmodeus is solely focusing on attacking Patty's team... Why not see what a Barrage does?
'703'
(I'd be glad to get out of the way of a future attack zone, even if it means that I'll have to attack for a turn.)
'75'
Continuing the back attacking strategy...
'WEAK POINT 630 ATTACK'
(And... The Motherfucker's going down!)
Shimo: Is that all you've got?
'Result'
'EXP 100 GLOW 550'
'SPOILS Potion+ x 1'
I've leveled up and gained a new skill, Dusk Analysis! Narika's also leveled up and learned Gravel Storm!
Results
Loot: Trial Battlesuit+ x 1, Child's Clothes+ x 1, Potion x 1, Mana Stone x 1.
Items used:
Glow gathered: 190.
Shimo's at Level 3.
Narika's at Level 3.
Patty's at Level 4.
Ian's at Level 4.
Nina's at Level 4.
Akurei's at Level 3.
Madara's at Level 3.
Thanatos's at Level 3.
Niyagi's at Level 3.
Lenne's at Level 3.
Vash's at Level 3 and learned Barrage.
(In short, POWER UP...'s all around!)
Shimo: We did it!
(Aw yeah! We pwned this massive beast! We are awesome!)
Shimo: What!? It came back to life!?
(So, that battle didn't count? BOO!!!)
Ruby: That's what I said would happen! Now get out of that Labyrinth! Retreat!
Shimo: Dammit...! We've got no other choice...
(Back at the...)
'Laboratory'
(...where Shimo's been called out on the proverbial carpet.)
Ruby: You disobeyed a direct order and exposed your comrades to danger!
I was sure we'd be just fine, and we are... (*sigh* "Father", you're a "loose cannon" as they call them...)
Ruby: If you weren't a God's Gift, I'd have your ass expelled from this Academy! Do you have any idea how reckless you were being back there!?
... *sigh*
Shimo: I'm sorry...
Just get this punishment over with already... (I see, the old "insincere apology".)
Ruby: You seem to have something personal against monsters...
... (Aren't you going to say "Present company excluded"?) (Pansy, I'm a demon in the form of a Star Child, not technically a monster. Besides, I've never taken you're so-called "insult" as such.)
Ruby: But, I have no interest in your personal sentiments.
Shimo: How could it bring itself back like that? We'll never defeat it at this rate.
Ruby: No, it can be defeated. You'll just have to use this to do it, though.
Shimo: Is this a nesting doll?
That is what it looks like, I'm just checking.
Ruby: It's a "Sealing Matryoshka" that can be collected near the Rootstone. If everything goes as told by the oracle of the Star God... Using this when the Dusk Spawner is defeated should seal its power.
Why wasn't I given this earlier?
Ruby: There was no plan for you to encounter the Dusk Spawner, so we didn't give it to you.
Okay, so, next time bring a Sealing Matryoshka before going into a labyrinth. Got it!
Shimo: So if we use this, we can defeat the Dusk Spawner once and for all?
Ruby: That's right. There's more to it, though. Once the Dusk Spawner is sealed, it will stop producing monsters within that Circle.
Good!
Ruby: This will vastly decrease the threat of monsters escaping it.
Mark: In other words, defeating the Dusk Spawner will sterilize that Circle.
I kind of figured that out earlier...
Mark: Of course, that doesn't mean the Dusk Circle will disappear... But it would be a great success to just call it a temporary fix.
Ruby: That's why your mission for the time being is to slay Dusk Spawners in the Circles.
Mark: And, make sure you bring back the Matryoshka doll that you sealed the Dusk Spawner in.
Okay... Why do you guys need it?
Mark: We'll use it as research material.
To develop... What?
Ruby: We'll need it to continue our research into saving the world. We're counting on you.
And you can count on me! (Well, it's a new day for interacting with others...) (You know, it's been a while since we've spoken to Chlotz.) (You mean "Klutz"?) No, Chlotz. Anyway, what's up with him?
'2nd-Year Class'
Chlotz: Yo, Shimo!
What's up?
Chlotz: Did you get any further with Fuuko?
Shimo: Further... What do you mean?
Just confirming, but I think Chlotz might be talking about actual sex...
Chlotz: Is there another way to take that?
Well, at least I hope there's another meaning than what I just mentioned.
Chlotz: C'mon, you didn't sweep her off her feet to save her from that monster for nothing.
Actually, I just have a habit of saving people in trouble. (It's been well documented, Shimo's affliction of Chronic Hero Syndrome that is.)
Chlotz: Hm... Your face is telling me you haven't made much progress.
Not that I'm aiming for that kind of a result in the first place. (With Fuuko that is. However, if Klutz was talking about Narika...)
Chlotz: Are you insane? She's into you, man! And she's cute!
(Let's see. First of all... What was your first clue that Shimo's insane? As for the second one, yeah, Shimo can be kind of clueless in that department. As for the third one...) Yeah, I can see how she can be considered cute but... She's just not my type. (Yeah, Shimo's "type" are oddballs, bookworms, those with odd hair/eye colors, badasses, or any combonation of the above.)
Chlotz: And despite how buddy-buddy she is with everyone, I don't think she's dated much. Listen, if you're going to woo Fuuko all the way to the Star Conception Festival...
Actually, I was thinking of asking Narika to that... (Figures, although I would not be surprised if you end up with Ellie instead.)
Chlotz: You gotta bond with her, like right now. You're a complete tool if you just ignore such a cutie.
I thought that the opposite of that would qualify for "tool-dom". ([sarcasm] Whatever you say... [/sarcasm]) Still, I do prefer to get along with people...
Shimo: Fuuko is a nice girl. I'm sure I can have a strong bond with her.
(Well, at the moment, you've "maxed out" your relationship with both Narika and Ellie for the moment; not that I'm surprised at that. But there's still Chloe and the aforementioned Fuuko to work on your relationship with.) (Not that either of them hate Shimo either. Both of them are just this... *index finger and thumb only a centimeter apart* ...close to reaching maxed out status themselves.) *sigh* So it looks like we're going to be hanging with Chloe and Fuuko...
'Faculty Room'
Shimo: Ms. Chloe, are you in today?
Chloe: Is something wrong? Is there something you'd like to discuss?
Shimo: Nothing's wrong, I just came here to talk to you.
Chloe: Is that so? I'm always available if you need someone to talk to.
Except for lunch period it seems...
Chloe: Sit tight, I'm going to make some tea.
Shimo: Don't worry about it.
Chloe: Oh, it's not a hassle for me. I was thinking of taking a break anyway. So... has it all settled in yet? How do you feel about being God's Gift?
Shimo: I was shocked at first, but I'm fine now.
Aside from how some people think I wouldn't mind being refered to by a title that Daemon would love to have applied to himself...
Chloe: We will do everything we can to support you. Let any of use know if you need help. You can come visit me again when you have a chance. I'll be here most of the time.
Shimo: Sure thing. I should get going. Thanks for the tea. It was delicious.
Chloe: You're welcome. See ya later.
(Better...) (So close, at yet so far away...) *sigh* Chlotz seems to be a Shipper on deck for Fuuko and I, so...
(We can just skip this, it's just going to be the "Walk Fuuko to her dorm" event and we've pretty much already covered what happens with all three dialouge options.) ...? I wonder what's up with Ruby?
'Laboratory'
Ruby: That freakin' perverted geezer!
Must be talking about Mattero. (Like I said before, I would not be surprised if it turns out that Daemon's possessing Mattero in this world.) But, might as well ask just to be sure...
Shimo: Why are you shouting, Chief Ruby?
Ruby: Oh... Didn't see you come in. I'm sorry; I was reliving an infuriating memory from a long time ago. Well, it was from last week. That deviant Mattero was flirting with one of my female lab workers. How old is he again? No, never mind that, isn't he supposed to be a priest!?
(Yeah!) I'm not sure if the religon of this world makes nuns and priests take a vow of celibacy or not...
Shimo: Don't know what to tell you, but that seems pretty awful.
Of couse, assuming that there is a vow of celibacy involved and/or Mattero was actually sexually harrasing the aforementioned lab workers rather than consentual flirting...
Ruby: You should keep an eye on your partners around him.
(We know that, what with the "Host of Daemon" risk and all.)
Ruby: He'll chase after anything that moves. Hell, he tried it with me five years ago.
Uh... You do know that, in that context, you're kind of implying that he's a depraved bisexual, right? (*sigh* Let me guess, it was the "anything that moves" part, isn't it?)
Ruby: And ever since then we've been at each other's throats. When you talk to girls, you have to be sincere, or else you'll get into trouble. And once a girl is out for blood, your life is over.
*sigh* ...
Shimo: I'll keep that in mind...
...? What's Ellie doing at the Shooting Range? Aside from the obvious...
'Shooting Range'
Shimo: There you are, Ellie. It's lunchtime, you know.
(Yo! Word to your mama, Pansy!) (...Why chouldn't Fuuko be my mother?)
Ellie: Oh, hello. What are you doing in here?
Curiosity, mostly.
Ellie: You're gonna miss lunch is you don't hurry.
Shimo: Yes, that's what I was telling you. ...Anyway, what are you going?
Ellie: I'm working on my marksmanship, as you can see. I keep coming to class late, so I haven't gotten much gun training. That's why I begged the rangemaster to let me practice during lunch. i'm hoping this will make me more useful to you, even if only a little.
Shimo: But shouldn't you at least take a break for lunch?
Ellie: It's okay! I know I've said it before, but I'm pretty tough. I'm confident about my body.
I'm not doubting that, but even the best fighting machines need fuel.
-You're built for confidence.-
-Well, it helps if you're tough.-
-I don't look at children.-
(Well, you shouldn't!) But I think it would be better to say this... (Nah, I can't remember exactly why, but your first choice's a bad idea.)
Shimo: Well, it helps if you're tough.
Ellie: Mmhmm! You can count on me when we're in Labyrinths. It takes a lot to wear me out. I'm sure that I'll be of use to you. ...Or something! I tried a little bit of self-promotion there.
(*sigh* At least it's a nice effort at it...)
Ellie: Aheheh, was I being pushy?
Not at all.
Shimo: Well, anyway, just don't push yourself too hard, okay? Your work with the Church keeps you busy, doesn't it?
Ellie: Please, don't worry about that. I've been taking days off from the Academy to make up for it. It think it's much easier compared to what the other Disciples have to up up with. Even my classmates think that I'm always cutting class. Aheh...
Shimo: That can't be helped if you're dealing with orders from the Church.
Ellie: You're right. Still, everyone's so nice to me... My school life has been much better than I had imagined it would be. I got to see you again, after all...
Shimo: "Again"?
-We met at the Academy.-
-Have we met before?-
-What do you mean?-
Well, as I recall...
Shimo: We met at the Academy.
Ellie: Oh, no, I meant that I'm glad I could speak to you like this. I'm such a doof...
(*sigh* You may be my "mother" but... Yes, yes you are.)
Ellie: I say weird things every now and again. Don't pay much attention to it.
Ah, don't worry. I say strange things at times as well.
Shimo: Well, if chatting with me makes you happy, I'll gladly talk with you anytime.
Ellie: Aheheh... Thank you. I'm usually here during lunch, so please come talk to me whenever you like.
Shimo: Got it. Well, good luck with your shooting practice, then.
Ellie: Thank you! Good luck with your classes.
Well, time to go home and save...
----------------------------------------------------
And... That's it for this post, next time are we taking another trip into the Labyrinth... (This time with the Pansy's mom as our partner.)
No comments:
Post a Comment