Fabulous Summer Host Episode 1 Part 2 (Abridged)

Y'golonac: Ta-dah! Nice, huh? We even gots a water stage in central Chuo where we'll decide who gets to sing the last song to be No. 1!
Sarutahiko: what
Y'golonac: We gonna sing our favorite song at the end of the day! Huge deal, y'all!
Barong: A solo stage? Oh my god I can use Performance there!?
Sarutahiko: Oh god the escalation...uh, not that I'm scared or whatever.
Ophion: How dare you all make me, the owner, wait!
Hmm, big boss bird is with him.
Simurgh: Hey. You the Kabukicho contact rep?
Y'golonac: Das me, Y'golonac! Thanks for all yer help!
Simurgh: Hmm. I thought you were some dumbass, but you got guts. Nice.
Y'golonac: I'mma Outlaw! You and me know how it is.
Bael: (Lawbreakers!)
Simurgh: Anyways, you wanted waiters? You can borrow these guys.
A cat and guard step up.
Y'golonac: Niiiice, mebbe we can put y'all in the host party too.
MC: WHORE / (glare at Y'golonac) / (flirt)
(AB) Y'golonac: Now now, yer the cutest MC even when yer jealous.
(C) Y'golonac: GASP! You have ME, MC! Where'd ya learn to act like that?

Simurgh: Heh, need preopen customers? Got tons of those.
The Wanderers come out.
Q'ursha: Them? Really?
Hei Long Yi Quan: Hey chat we got a special stream today! I'm here for an advance visit at a hot spot in Odaiba!
MC: welp / Q'ursha, pick me! / who's the cute dog?
(B) Q'ursha: Oh? You're approaching me? Bring it.
(C) HLYQ: Oh, me? Wow, when was the last time I introduced myself?

Hei Long Yi Quan: Hi, I'm Hei Long Yi Quan from the Arakawa Wanderers and I'm a corporate streamer!
Gurangatch: Hehe, hi MC we're here too. This is exciting.
Barguest: Why am I here, really? What if something blows up?
Hotei: Hey Tetsugyuu, Sarutahiko! I'mma cheer y'all on!
MC: I'm excited too, Gurangatch / How about I make you happy, Barguest? / I'll make you smile today, Hotei
---
(A) Gurangatch: Yeah. I wanted to see you in a host suit, MC.
(B) Barguest: Bit cringey to hear, but okay.
(C) Hotei: Go easy on me, yeah?
Sarutahiko: Was that a test!? How am I supposed to do this in front of my friends!?
Hotei: Niiice, the snarky follow up. Hey Sarutahiko, if ya ever get nervous just remember me makin' a face!
---
Y'golonac: Wait what? We gotta get ready, we ain't even suited up yet. Okay team, dress up time!

Later
Y'golonac hasn't changed.
Y'golonac: Nice suit ya apparently have on, MC! Careful, I might run off and take ya with me, gweheheh...
MC: Oh you / wait you aren't changing? / GROSS, get away from me!
---
(B) Y'golonac: This baby's got a trick you'll see later, hehe.
---
Y'golonac: Now where the hell is everyone else?
Oh look here comes Tsukuyomi, Shino, and Tetsugyuu.
Tsukuyomi: Hey starlight, I'm over the moon for you.
Shino: H-hello my fated destiny. My fangs will never let you go if they sink into you.
Tetsugyuu: You're a prisoner of my dee sire or something. Hehe, pick me Boss!
MC: You're shining, Night Emperor! / Wow Shino you look great / Whoa, Tetsugyuu you look so good!
(A) Tsukuyomi: Thanks, I need to shine as bright as you are.
(B) Shino: P-please stop! These fancy clothes are wasted on me!
(C) Tetsugyuu: Thanks Boss! Go ahead, fall for me!

Y'golonac: Niiice. Good job on the lines too, even with Shino bein' a little embarrassed.
Shino: How do you expect me to drop a line like that with a straight face!?
Oh look, Barong and Sarutahiko are out now.
Barong: Hey kitty, what show do you want me to do tonight?
Sarutahiko: I gotta bubbly heart present for you, ducky! It's cool, it won't pop just like that.
MC: Nice! / Barong how much??? / Heart please, Sarutahiko!
---
(B) Barong: Aww, thanks. Full service for you!
(C) Sarutahiko: uhhh, y-you can have as many as you want...
---
Y'golonac: Okay ya found some good dudes but we ain't losin'!
Finally, Bael and Perun come out.
Bael: Bon nuit ma cherie, I'll grant you any wish your heart can pay for!
Perun: Kneel before your king, peasant! For I am the emperor of Emperor Hosts, Perun!
MC: sign me up, Bael / I want to make you smile more, Perun!
(A) Bael: Heh. Promise to make me your number one and I can play along with this revelry.
(B) Perun: Hah, impressive attitude, clown! Keep up those naive words!

Y'golonac: Oh good, that suit fits ya Perun. Cool that's everyone!
MC: Everyone looks awesome! / somehow it feels like Team Good Hosts vs Team Evil Hosts now
---
(BC) Y'golonac: Yep, it's Team Service vs Team Boss now!
---
Sarutahiko: ...hey, didn't someone say we'd be doing customer service in swimsuits earlier?
Y'golonac: Yep, that's a thing. Now look at this li'l trick we pulled from Ar Tonelico! Purge!
Y'golonac pushes a button and everyone's suits blow off into swimsuits!
MC: OH MY GOOOOD
Y'golonac: Yeeee, it's perfect!
Bael and Sarutahiko: IS NOT
MC: Yeah! / At least give us a heads up! / THIS is what you meant by swimsuits!?

Y'golonac: *(bonked)* OOF! but why tho...
Sarutahiko: This is more embarassing than a regular swimsuit! But I guess it does help the party mood...
Bael: How did you make it so that only the shirt and not the jacket blew up? Also fix it back right now.
Y'golonac: Sorry, it's one-way. Gotta put it back on the hard way.
Bael: How DARE you not use strange tech magic to make it go both ways!
Perun and Barong meanwhile like the swim-suits and are posing.
Shino: I-I did not see anything. I will pick up our clothes.
Shino seems really embarrassed as he hands back MC's clothes.
MC: You saw too much, Shino / (stare) / Thanks
---
(A) Shino: I-I cannot help it!
(B) Shino: I-I cannot believe this happened when I came to be a guard!
---
Tetsugyuu: Shino, chill! How ya gonna service customers like that?
Tsukuyomi: I think that's good though, haha. Plenty of people will like you as you are.
MC: Huh, you two aren't bothered? / (stare at Tetsugyuu) / (stare at Tsukuyomi)
(A) Tetsugyuu: We fought together as bros, nothing to be ashamed of.
Tsukuyomi: Being a host means being looked at. Though you make me feel a little hotter under the collar when you do it.
(B) Tetsugyuu: It's okay Boss, you can touch me hehe.
(C) Tsukuyomi: Oh? Go ahead, come and get a closer look.

Perun: MC, come over here and decide whether Barong or I am shining brighter!
Barong: It's me and my dancer body!
Perun: Hmph! Then see my winter forged body!
MC: You're both good / Ooh, Barong! / Ooh, Perun!
(A) Perun: Okay true, you are impressive. Very well, the winner is whoever becomes number one then.
Barong: Bring it!
(B) Barong: Thanks babe! Watch me dance even better, okay?
(C) Perun: But of course! Behold as I conquer the number one spot!
Tsukuyomi: I look forward to seeing you try, heh.

Bael and Sarutahiko go up to Y'golonac. Y'golonac is picking his nose.
Y'golonac: Y'all gonna do good out there, have some confidence!
Sarutahiko: I...guess?
Bael: Don't just let him talk you out of it like that!
MC: You two look great in host suits / You so look like a number one as a host, Bael / Serve me as a host, Sarutahiko
---
(A) Bael and Sarutahiko blush and look at each other.
Y'golonac: Hey, why y'all gotta be up in my grill when I compliment ya, but not when MC does it?
(B) Bael: Yyyyou thought you could get me to work if you said that, didn't you? Scheming snake! ...well I can help for a little bit, but I'm leaving the moment I get tired of this!
(C) Sarutahiko: Aww man, how am I supposed to say no to that? Okay fiiine, I can do this shit. I was number one in customer service back home!
---
Ophion: Stop whining when you haven't done anything yet! (takes another look at everyone) Well okay, the waiting was worth it then.
Y'golonac: Hell yeah we gon do this shit! Step it up, y'all! Kick off the pre-openin' with a bang!

Later
Time for Team Y'golonac and the Wanderers drinking date thing!
Simurgh: Ohh, so that's how you wanna play the summer host thing. MC, come with me. You know how not to ruin a mafia don's mood, right?
MC: Thank you don. / (pull out a brush) / (step boldly)
---
(B) Simurgh: Is brushing your thing? I'll pass, keep my O-face private. But you can do that if you come to my room, hehe.
Y'golonac: NOOOO MY BABY
Simurgh: Parents are supposed to watch the babies fly from the nest. How about you let go?
---
Simurgh lets MC pick their own drink and gets some mint and lime juice cocktail with a topping of sherbet and cherry. It's pretty cute.
Simurgh: You can have the cherry, MC. (picks it up and hands it over)
MC: You do this a lot? / (just take it) / (push his beak back and take it)
(A) Simurgh: Just a cheap life hack. I can show you how to do it with your feet if you want.
(B) Simurgh: Heh, you evil stoic host you. How many guys are you looking to play with this summer?
(C) Simurgh: Ooh, brave. You gonna make all the boys go crazy this summer, huh?

Y'golonac is dramatically watching MC and Simurgh from across the room.
Y'golonac: Oh god oh sheez oh hell mebbe I shouldn'ta made MC a host!
Everyone else seems to be having a good time.
Perun: Hahaha, keep that camera running! Purge time! (pops off suit)
Hei Long Yi Quan: Whooooa!
Perun: Heh, I have nothing to hide and nothing to be ashamed of!
HLYQ: So you guys use a chip system and we can ask the host for things here? Like when chat tips me sometimes. Maybe I should ask for something?
Perun: You offer tribute? Heh, lay your wishes on me!
The tips are just coming in for people's favorites

Hei Long Yi Quan: Hey chat, should I give a tip too?
Perun: Go on! Y'golonac made a good system here!
Y'golonac: Thanks! Gettin' lotsa tips fires ya up, huh?
HLYQ: Hey Perun, how about we sing together! Oh wait, can I stream this? Maybe we can even do my ending theme song together and sell it!
Perun: Oooh. Pass me the mic and get that music started!
Perun starts hijacking the song into a brag track! HLYQ rolls with it without missing a beat! Bael is talking with Gurangatch who seems nervous.
Bael: Heh. So, don't go to these types of establishments much?
Gurangatch: N-no! I-I... I can't speak well in front of people...
Bael: Well this is my first time too, so we can both relax. It's hard though, not used to not having anything in my hands. Maybe you should ask for something. Or maybe you want to do something more demonic? (smiles and fluffs his tail at Gurangatch)
Gurangatch: UHHHH, this one please!
Gurangatch orders a giant ass soda with a giant ass price tag and starts spilling/gulping it down.

Bael: Whoa, you should slow down Gurangatch. I'll get a towel.
Y'golonac: Well damn I ain't ever seen that happen before.
Bael: It's fine, Simurgh is handling everyone's finances. Also, maybe I'm better at hosting than I thought. And the active flexing of who is number one, hehehe...
Y'golonac: Eesh, ya really are a devil, huh? Helpful tho.
Y'golonac glances at Shino's table.
Shino: It's impressive how you deny your own wishes and choose to be alone.
Barguest: Nah, I'm just afraid of being hated.
Shino: You are better than self-centered cowards. I once let someone important to me die for my own desires...
Barguest: Stop that, everyone has the right to be happy. I was saved by someone who believed in that.
Barguest smiles and clinks glasses with Shino.
Y'golonac: Wait what, when did we turn into therapy hour!? And it's supposed to be the host being nice and comfortin'!
Shino: But Lord Tsukuyomi once said counseling is a host's weapon.
Y'golonac: Dammit. Shino, you stay after so we do Hosting 101!

Right, how's Team Tsukuyomi doing on the other side of the club?
Barong: Wow, you're a player huh? Not fun enough?
Q'ursha: You especially don't get to call me that. You'll flirt with anyone anywhere and wag your pretty little tail for whoever, don't you?
Barong: Aww, you think my tail's pretty?
Q'ursha: Uggggh, I hate flatterers. Especially rookie dopes crooning about love and romance.
Q'ursha looks hurt. Barong smiles and hands him a glass while very close.
Barong: It's cool, I'm a pro! I can make things exciting and all you gotta do is watch. Want any dance music?
Q'ursha: ...put on a war or hunting ballad then.
Barong: Okay, I'll try to make you feel better!
Barong puts on music with his phone and starts dancing! Meanwhile...

Hotei: Okay Tetsugyuu, I'mma tip ya if you make me laugh. But if I make YOU laugh...
Tetsugyuu: W-what? I can handle being on a comedy act.
Hotei: Ooh, sounds good! But anyways, if you laugh I'm not tippin' ya. We're doin' a joke contest!
Tetsugyuu: Bring it! I've been practicing to make the Boss laugh!
Hotei: Get ready to piss your pants then!
And finally, Sarutahiko is with a displeased Ophion.
Sarutahiko: Uh, you're the boss of this place. You could just go to MC if you want them so much.
Ophion: I would if it wasn't Simurgh over there.
Simurgh can live as long as dragons and Ophion sees him as having lived longer than him. Also as an equal in authority and his working partner.
Sarutahiko: Huh. Figured you'd be the "I'm king of the world" typa guy.
Ophion: Maybe my older self would have flexed on everyone...

Sarutahiko is having thoughts while looking at Ophion.
Sarutahiko: I think when you get older, you also get more of something nice which is more important. Reminds me of all the nice old folks who come to my bathhouse. Wish I'll be like that someday...
Some mental voice asks Sarutahiko "are you saying I've been wasting my life?" and Sarutahiko mentally apologizes.
Ophion: You DARE indirectly lecture me?
Ophion charges his claws and laser breath!
Sarutahiko: N-no??? I didn't say that! ...oops.
Ophion: So you were THINKING it.
Sarutahiko: HELP

Ophion swings! And stops right before hitting Sarutahiko in the eyes!
Ophion: Hah! Kidding. I'm impressed you actually tried giving me your opinion. Perhaps I should take your advice and forgive you.
Sarutahiko: I thought I was gonna die!
Ophion: Waiter! Bring us a bottle!
Ophion takes a glass and holds it to Sarutahiko.
Ophion: So, what do I need to make MC fall harder for me when I get older?
Sarutahiko: How did we get to this point!? J-just ask them!
Tsukuyomi smiles as he watches everyone.
Tsukuyomi: Not quite the usual host style, but ehh, we're at the beach. What should I do to show off everyone's individual qualities better?
Y'golonac: Yo, Tsukuyomi! How's y'all doin'? We're doin' pretty good I think!
Tsukuyomi: Same here. I was thinking about how to make them do even better.
Tsukuyomi is also thinking about making Y'golonac better too.
Y'golonac: Huh. Well it ain't gonna be fun with no challenge!
Tsukuyomi: We aren't going to lose either. I'm going to try staying number one.
Y'golonac: Ya better learn to enjoy the taste of dirt when I knock ya off yer perch!
And so both go back to their teams.
End of Episode

Fabulous Summer Host Episode 1 Part 1 (Abridged)

Y'golonac and Tsukuyomi are putting together their host teams!
Tetsugyuu: Night King, do you even know who to get for this?
Tsukuyomi: Heh, you wanna know? It's a team of four and there's two of us already. I'm a night person though, so I don't really know any daytime people. You? Maybe a people pleaser service worker?
Tetsugyuu: You're dumping it on me!? I don't--actually maybe I do. From school!
Bathhouse
Sarutahiko: Hey you, long time no see!
Saru no Yu bathhouse, Asakusa. Sarutahiko is here. And a stalker~.
Tsukuyomi: Hmm. He knows MC, he comes to hang out sometimes. He's the guard of Ama no Yachimata the Crossroad of Heaven so he's got good Insight. Guess I'll see how good he'll be as a host!
Sarutahiko is working hard.

Sarutahiko: Aww, your back hurts? Check out this hot bath! I look sick? Nah, I'm good!
He seems concerned inside.
Sarutahiko: (Why's Tsukuyomi staring at me!?)
Hey, Tsukuyomi was one of the Top 3 important people in Takamagahara.
Sarutahiko: (Did I piss him off last time I went over?)
Tsukuyomi continues watching.
Tsukuyomi: Hmm, good customer service. People like him, he's got good Negotiation skills. Nice.
Tsukuyomi goes up to talk to Sarutahiko.
Sarutahiko: U-um. Do you need help with anything, Tsukuyomi-sama?
Tsukuyomi: Oh you noticed me! Nice Observation skills too.
Sarutahiko: (He's wearing a goddamn suit in here! Gramma in the back noticed him!)
Tsukuyomi: Now now, relax. I wanted to talk to you. (casually lifts up Sarutahiko's chin)
Sarutahiko: WHAT
Tsukuyomi leans in close! Sarutahiko closes his eyes! Gulping sound!

Tsukuyomi: Cool, you pass.
Sarutahiko: wait what
Tsukuyomi: You got that babby's first host gig vibe, but that could be relaxing for people.
Sarutahiko: WHAT, RUDE
Tsukuyomi: Oh right, getting ahead of myself. Wanna be a host this summer?
Sarutahiko: Wait am I being headhunted away?
Tsukuyomi explains it's a seasonal short term gig in Odaiba.
Sarutahiko: Oh, MC's there too? That makes me feel a little better...
Tsukuyomi: You got the potential. Wanna try something new? Now imagine some customers yelling and screaming about how good a host you are. What kind of host do you want to be?

Sarutahiko Fantasy Vision go!
Random Mobs: OMG SARUTAHIKO!
Sarutahiko: Hey babes! Bubble Heart, go!
Sarutahiko throws heart-shaped bubbles at people!
Random Mobs: Shot through the heart, and you're to blaaame~!
Sarutahiko: Now now, go any crazier and you'll give love a bad name!
Random Mobs: (more screaming and crying)
MC: Wow, you're number one Sarutahiko! Shoot me too!
Sarutahiko: Aww thanks, I wanna be your No. 1, MC! How about we have a little bubbly together later...?
Present
Sarutahiko: Ehehehe...
Tsukuyomi: Thank you for sharing out loud with the class, I see you're motivated at least.
Sarutahiko: WAIT I didn't say yes yet! I still gotta talk to the boss first...

Later
Sarutahiko: how did I get into this... I mean I can't say no to Tsukuyomi. And then the crying and screaming over me, hehe... but the bathhouse... The boss said 'help your friends' but STILL...
Tsukuyomi: Haha, I appreciate it, but you really could have said no.
Sarutahiko: N-no, I'm in. Actually, you sure you want a newbie like me?
Tsukuyomi: I think you got a real knack for it.
Tsukuyomi and Sarutahiko are at some resort looking for someone.
Sarutahiko: Are we getting another Umamichi guy?
Tsukuyomi: Nah, Gyoubu and Tetsuya hooked me up with another Suidocho student they know. Some hotelier in training.
Sarutahiko: Oh, sounds like a high level customer service dude.
Tsukuyomi: Yes, but there's more to it than that. Sarutahiko, you deal with customer complaints, right?

Sarutahiko: (nods confusedly) Yeah, though most go away quick enough.
Tsukuyomi: Well we're going to see Barong, and I hear he never makes a negative face. Think you could do the same with the Karens who come in?
Sarutahiko: Uh, it probably depends on the customers I talk to.
Tsukuyomi: Haha, fair. Doesn't Barong sound good at hosting though?
Tsukuyomi and Sarutahiko look over. Barong is there.
Barong: Welcome! Do you have a reservation?
Tsukuyomi: Actually we came to see you, sorry.
Barong: Me...? Oh, you one of my fans? Nice. But my shows are at night, sorry!
Tsukuyomi: I sorta am.
Tsukuyomi invites Barong into his host party!

Tsukuyomi: By the way, Y'golonac's in a different party. Heard you've been asking him to partner up with you, and that sounds cool. What if you guys made it happen this event? Maybe.
Barong: I'm in! Gonna party it up with everybody everywhere! ...if you think I can do the host thing after watching me at work, I mean.
Tsukuyomi: Okay? Tetsuya said you'd be great.
Barong looks confident.
Barong: You're doing a whole new summer beach host thing, right? Which means Performance work up my street! You don't mind me doing my own host style, do you?
Tsukuyomi: It's cool! Shall we get this show on the road now?
Barong: Okay! Uhh... Sarutahiko or whatever? Can you pretend to be the customer?
Sarutahiko: UHHHH
Barong: It'll be cool, just sit there and watch me.
Barong looks Sarutahiko right in the face, puts his hand on his knee, then climbs into his lap.
Barong: No looking away~! Okay, hit the music!
Sarutahiko: WAIT WHAT'S HAPPENING

Meanwhile
MC and Y'golonac go to Chuo to recruit a host party member!
Bael: NO
Y'golonac: But why tho? Ya already do consultant work, you can do it.
Bael: But I don't want to. Why should No. 1 have to do customer servicing?
Y'golonac: Puhleeez??? I'm already runnin' out of ideas on who to ask!
Bael tries to shut the door, but Y'golonac shoves his foot in!
Bael: Go away! I'll sue you if I have to!
MC: Bael pls? You'd be sooo cool and awesome~!
Bael: Y-you can't butter...me...up like...
Hmmmm.
Y'golonac: HMMMM methinks the twink doth protest too much-ah. Come onnn, ya wanna be No. 1 don'tcha? Thinka all the people bowin' to ya!
Bael: (blushes)

Bael Fantasy Vision, go!
Bael: Mwahahaha! Who's No. 1!?
Mobs: Bael!
Bael Yes, you are all correct! Look, a present!
Bael pulls out an all day date ticket and flaps it around.
Bael: Whoever has this gets to be my special someone for a day and--oops~! I dropped it!
The mobs lunge for the ticket!
Bael: Yes! Fight for it like the lowly pigs you are! Worship me, peons! Mwahahaha!
Present
Y'golonac: Earth to Bael, come in Bael.
Bael: Ah! What were we talking about?
Y'golonac: The hell were you thinkin' about!? Ugh, you gonna be a host or not?
Bael: M-my answer hasn't changed.
Y'golonac: (Oooh, just a little push to get him over the edge to the dark side, eh?) Let's get 'im, MC!
MC: Okay! / Come on, you know you want to~ / wait what
BATTLE(?) START (more happens after)

Bael: GO AWAY
Y'golonac: Aww, Bae-by such a hard worker~! MC, let's give him something nice!
MC and Y'golonac shove Bael into a chair and loom in close!
MC: (pet him) / (brush him) / (sit on him)
Bael: WHAT
Y'golonac: Come on, we really need your help to win. Pretty pleeease? You were my number one pick to ask help from.
Bael: D-did he really, MC? But...
Y'golonac thinks he's totally got Bael corrupted! Bael's thinking of other things.
Bael: (If I join, it might be easier to nab Y'golonac, but...)
Y'golonac: Pretty please with a cherry on top??? Be our number one star???
Bael: ...okay fine.
Y'golonac: Gwehehe, oh ya little tease, hidin' how you really feel~
Bael: AM NOT
And that's how Y'golonac and Tsukuyomi expanded their parties.

Later, Odaiba
Y'golonac: Barong, why are ya here!?
Barong: Tsukuyomi picked me up!
MC: Sarutahiko too? Oh right same school. / (smirk at Sarutahiko)
---
(AB) Sarutahiko: Hehe, Tsukuyomi picked me up too! I have no idea what's going on!
(C) Sarutahiko: Y-you think my being here's a joke, huh!? I'll show you!
---
Tsukuyomi: Wow you picked up Bael? It came to mind, but I figured you'd say no.
Y'golanac: It must be mah natural virtue and karma workin' out for me!
Bael: My presence is partially against my will!
Y'golonac: Tee hee. Anyhoo that's everyone right? Let's get to war already!
Y'golonac points at the really fancy beach hut built over the water.
???: HALT
Perun drops down from somewhere!
Perun: I heard war and I want in!

Flashback!
Perun: Damn, Kitezh blizzards are strong. I must keep up with all the pillaging and conquering everyone is doing!
So snowy. Perun is the emperor of Kitezh who stalls the fated destruction of his world with the faith of diffusion. If the world is harsh, they should adapt and assimilate. Enemies? Absorb them. Families? Absorb them. Perun absorbed the blizzard to spread his existential range. His mortar artifact? A Pillar. It crushes him along with his enemies. It's the power to grind his own memories and insert them into others like it's Bleach's Book of the End. The price? Assimilation goes both ways, baby. He influences them, they influence him. He's Theseus's Ship'd himself to the point he doesn't have much of his old self left, not even the rage and excitement he felt talking to Someone. But that Someone still sticks in his memories, the poet who gave them(/themselves?) affection.
Perun: Where are you going, servant!?
The poet seems to speak.
Perun: What? I can't hear you!
The poet comes closer. He seems to whisper something...

Later
Setagaya Director's Office
Perun: ...! Oh, was I dreaming again? I couldn't hear that damned fool. How DARE I be teased like this without seeing the end!?
Volkh hears yelling and walks in.
Volkh: Did you awaken my lord? You sound hoarse...
Perun: Oh, Volkh. It's nothing. Bad dreams.
Volkh: You have bad dreams?? I shall prepare herbal tea!
Perun nods and thinks on the deja vu dream. Using his artifact probably cuts out the memories his Pillar thinks is irrelevant. So why does this apparently unimportant memory dream keep coming to him?
Perun: Hmm...perhaps it's just a nightmare. Never mind, what's today's itinerary?
Volkh: Sir, today there is environmental maintenance and inspection at Odaiba.
Perun: Okay, good luck with that Volkh.
Volkh: But Sir, please come! The Tycoons will be there too so...
Perun: Pffft, why should I care? I have personal issues to dwell on! Go ahead, kick the hornet's nest!
Volkh: (sighs) Well I didn't want to say this, but Odaiba's summer event has...
Perun: MC is there!? Why didn't you say so sooner!?
Volkh: Because you'll ditch work to see them!
Perun: Sounds like a plan to me! Odaiba, ho!
Volkh: But Sir! Work!

Present
Elsewhere in Odaiba
Hippolytus: Volkh? I thought Perun was with you.
Volkh: ...he left me as soon as we came here.
Hippolytus: Oh well then! Should we call and say he'll be late?
Volkh: No, based on experience...he won't be coming back for three weeks.
Hippolytus: !?
Where the parties are in Odaiba
Perun: I heard war and I want in!
Y'golonac: WHOMST? And ya wanna be a host???
Bael: Oh. Perun.
Perun: Yes, it is I! As getting financed goes, how could I not be first place?
Y'golonac: Uh that ain't really the goal here. Are ya doin' this because you thought you could run a bar?
Perun: Pffft. I'm here for MC. OBVIOUSLY. Rejoice, I shall be with you!
MC: Ummm / tee hee yaaaay / You, a host? Really?

Perun glances at MC and projects the dream poet onto them. He left him for places beyond his reach, and only here at the beach can he easily see them again.
Perun: Well, I can invade Kabukicho's agronomics if you refuse me.
Setagaya is the best at food production here in Tokyo. Shino and Tetsugyuu move for their weapons, and Perun doesn't react.
Tsukuyomi: Okay, you can join. But host work isn't as easy as you think it is, you know.
Perun: Pffft, as if I fail at anything.
Tsukuyomi just smiles.
Y'golonac: Really? We were perfectly 4v4 until now.
Tsukuyomi: It's cool, I'll just work as hard as two people. Nice handicap for having a newbie here.
Y'golonac: Mkay then, no whinin' if ya lose.
Right, full event cast is here!
Y'golonac: Anyways, the Host House is open for business y'all!
End of Episode part

Live A Hero Summer Survival Island Episode 1 (Abridged)

It's goddamn hot out, and so are the people cheering for heroes!
Kouki: Hey, the Hero City Summer Fest is on this year! The stall food smells great, come on by!
Hitomi: Don't forget the hero battles! Everyone's watching the O-1 Hero Grand Prix!
Kouki: Who's going to win!?
Hitomi: There's a new Heroes Battle Arena happening!
Kouki: Which hero and Operator has the tightest bond?
Hitomi: Let's party it up everyone!
Hitomi and Kouki: HERO FESTA, GO!
Parallel Flight
Mokdai: Whoa, awesome!
Some day. Mokdai's in the office break room with a cup of noodles and fiddling with his phone watching recorded Hero Fest videos.
Mokdai: Yeeeah, Kalaski's Ult! Oh my god, wild Loren reference! And then Narihito who actually got screen time! Oof, gonna rewind it again!

Akashi: Wow the morning went by fast from all that work. Lunch time!
Sui: Work piles up around Fest time, huh? I should go on break too. How about you, MC?
MC: Okay. What's for lunch? / wait someone's here
---
(AB) Akashi: Oh man, I miss last year's street food at the fest. Smelled so good it really sucked when it was my turn at the grill.
Sui: Yeah you sure worked hard. I want Kirsche's shaved ice parfait again. Her agency's booth has a long line again.
Akashi: Figures. I'm making myself hungry again!
---
Mokdai: (takes off headphones) Hi guys, having lunch?
Sui: Yep. You just finished that cup noodles? ...wait what's that bento box behind you?
Mokdai: Uh, main course! Meat lover's lunch box!
Akashi: Eh, a cup does seem like not enough. The bento does seem huge though.
Sui: ...don't get fatter by measurement time, okay?

Mokdai: (rubs belly) U-um...I'll work out more. It's been busy lately and Hero Fest is on so...
Akashi: So you got a large bento and binged Hero Fest videos. But you watched them yesterday too. Won't you get bored?
Mokdai: Never! The O-1 Hero Grand Prix is awesome!
Sui: O-okay. But you've been in it too before.
Mokdai: Doesn't matter! ...oh right, Akashi's fight is after this one! Your combo with Justice was so cool! (mimes swinging a bat)
Akashi: Are you a sports dad or something!?
Mokdai: Aww, nothing to be ashamed of! Your fans must be happy!
Sui: Heh, right. Your practice has been paying off.
Akashi: W-well I was too busy to think about the camera. I'm glad I didn't look weird...
MC: You're getting better with stage fright! / Did the cameras get my operating? / The fans love you too, Sui.

The rest of the gang starts having lunch.
Mokdai: Oh yeah, Huckle says we should start figuring out our summer vacations soon!
Akashi: I already sent my leave requests in for my baseball games. What about you, Mokdai?
Mokdai: I was thinking of going back to visit Fukushima. I'll bring back presents! MC, you like spicy fish eggs?
MC: Yes spicy! / No spicy...
---
(A) Mokdai: Awesome!
(B) Mokdai: Oh okay, something sweet then.
---
Mokdai: This gonna be fun! Sui, you gonna take time off? Both your jobs seem busy.
Sui: Yeah, I sorted out my schedule. No plans, so maybe I'll practice designing.
???: Aww, my student's so hardworking.

Maculata walks in.
Sui: Master? I thought you were working on something with Crowne and Hisaki today.
Crowne and Hisaki walk in.
Hisaki: Here I am! Haven't seen you guys since last Hero Fest, huh?
Crowne: I forgot my work tools, figured I'd say hi. You guys on break?
MC: Hi Hisaki! / Hello Maculata! / Hey Crowne!
(A) Hisaki: Hey MC! We haven't talked much, but you seem good! Wanna go out drinking? Call me later, keep it a secret from Sis.
(B) Maculata: Oh hello MC. Your operation's improved, nice to see you and Sui growing. I need to keep it up.
(C) Crowne: Yep, I'm back. Damn it's hot out. Makes me want a cold beer when I get back. Heh, I can share if you bring snacks.

Maculata and Hisaki join the table while Crowne grabs drinks for everyone.
Maculata: Thanks Crowne.
Crowne: You're a guest of our office now. Hisaki, here's yours. So what were you guys talking about?
Crowne sits down.
Mokdai: Summer vacation plans.
Hisaki: Oh yeah, not having plans when break hits kinda sucks. Time flies when I'm studying ancient tech!
Maculata: Oh I see. I wish I could take an extended break...
Sui: Really? Oh, is this about the art museum you mentioned before?
Maculata: Yes. It's rather far, but they're displaying an important dress. But then again...it's an invite-only exhibition. Well anyways, you should think about what you want to do to make your plans.
MC: Hmm... / So many things I want to do! / Maybe something low key...

Hisaki has an idea.
Hisaki: ...maybe I can help! How about this extra ticket I got?
Hisaki pulls up a picture of a giant space cruise ship. Special Ticket is stamped on it.
MC: An eticket?
Hisaki: VIP ticket! For the city ship Este Bolta. Laborer's Site gave these to everyone for doing well in the Hero Fest.
Mokdai: Wow, Este Bolta's a representative for Muiraqua IV!
Maculata: I heard it's big enough you need at least ten tugboats to pull it on the water.
Hisaki: Wow you guys know? They call it the eternal summer city ship since Earth's summer zone keeps moving.
The ticket shows big buildings and pretty beaches.
Hisaki: Can't use it myself, busy with factory and investigation work. Also collabing with Sis. Plus it'll expire by the time I come back. So, want it MC?
Sui: Aren't those all big name brand businesses on that ship?
Crowne: Yeah, isn't a VIP ticket still pretty damn expensive even if it were half-off?
Hisaki: (smiles) Tee hee, the Este Bolte's always hard up for heroes. Check this out!
Hisaki shows off the price chart. It's pretty big.
MC: OH MY GOD / Wait, it goes down that low!? / I-is this a scam?

Hisaki: Cool huh? It'd be a waste to not use it.
Maculata: What a discout. I wish my agency got it too.
Hisaki: Oh yeah, the other Laborer's Site guys should be on Muirauqa IV too, so you can tell them I said hi. It's a good chance to see them! And maybe you and I can go on a date after thi--
Akashi: Oh cool, that means Pubraseer should be there too. The resort ship we were on was going there, right?
Hisaki: Uh, I-I guess? Lots of non-navy ships dock there for supplies too. I heard the Grand Island docks on Este Bolta too.
Mokdai: Wow, the Este Bolta is so big it doubles as a port for smaller ships? Weird.
Hisaki: Haha, the Este Bolta can hold a million people, so it's pretty important as a dock.
Sui: Does that mean you might see Gorou and Lilac too? We haven't really talked since the flower festival.
MC: Oh yeah, awesome! Is it really okay for me to take it?
Hisaki: Sure! S-so, how about that dat--
MC: Thanks Hisaki! / After I get back!
---
(AB) Hisaki: O-oh, sure! Bring me back a present! Preferably stories we can talk about together!
(C) Hisaki: O-oh, okay! Don't forget, okay!?
---
Everyone seems excited.

Title Card: To a Relaxing Moment of Time

Spaceport
MC: I'm finally here! On Muirauqa IV among the sea of stars!
The area outside the spaceport looks like how spaceports are back on Earth.
MC: Am I really in a spaceship? Feels like any other city.
There's an ocean visible outside the window. This port is built on top of a giant spaceship.
???: Hey MC!
Lilac's coming this way!
MC: Lilac, nice to see you again! / Thanks for the help at the flower festival!
(AB) Lilac: Hello MC. I guess I saw you at the Hero Fest, but it's been a while since I saw you off the clock. I don't come here often, so I hope we both have fun.
(C) Lilac: Hello MC, you smell familiar... oh excuse me, I was just remembering that time. I'm glad we can relax together like this.

Lilac has a small baggage trunk.
Lilac: Hard to believe we're on an ocean. Want to go to the edge of the ship?
MC: Feels unreal... you come here a lot?
Lilac: I've been sent here by my agency a few times, but I'm not that familiar with it. It's been a while since I wasn't off planet for work, so I'm excited.
Someone's waving and walking over.
Pubraseer: Hey MC and Lilac. Hisaki said you'd be coming, been wanting to see you.
MC: Me too Pubraseer! / omg you're low key today
(AB) Pubraseer: Aww, missed me? Well I'm on break until Grand Island leaves. There's plenty of time. Maybe at night we can stargaze together.
(C) Pubraseer: W-well the Hero Fest fired me up a bit. I didn't think I could keep it up the entire time, but we've got plenty of time to hang out.

Pubraseer is smiling brightly.
Pubraseer: I've been hearing about you from Lilac, Hisaki, and Gorou. You've been busy, huh? Tell me about it over lunch.
Lilac: Sooner or later someone talks about you when we all meet up.
Pubraseer: Having lots of friends is good. We live far from Earth, but we can meet up again like this. Technology sure has evolved.
Lilac: Yes, it has compared to how it used to be.
Pubraseer: ...I might be talking about a different period of how it used to be, but yeah. Maybe I should learn about that tech.
Someone calls from behind.
Isaribi: Move your fat ass already!
Gorou: We've got ten minutes. I can sneak in a drink in that time. We might even be fir--oh, MC!
Isaribi: ...wait, we ARE last!
Lilac: Hello, we only just got here.
Gorou: See? Relax.
Isaribi: I had to drag your drunk ass all the way here!
Pubraseer: This one of the "you hurt the ones you love" thing? Nice. Anyways, say hi to MC already.

Gorou and Isaribi turn towards MC.
Gorou: Well you know me, but thanks for coming? Um, do you know Isaribi already?
MC: Yes / No / Beefy man!
(A) Isaribi: Yeah, a job came in for some sorta investigation. Thanks for back then, Boss! I had to come when I heard you'd be here! Ask me anything about the Este Bolta if you got questions!
(B) Isaribi: Gorou's told me all about you, so I've been wanting to talk to you! I'm Isaribi, a fisherman from Muirauqa IV!! You can be all cool and casual with me. If you're good being on a boat I can send in a job next time!
(C) Isaribi: Aww, thanks! You see my big manly charms? You can look closer! I'll even take a layer off!
Lilac: That's a shirt, Isaribi.
Pubraseer: MC, Isaribi's an exhibitionist. Try not to encourage him.
Isaribi: Stop making me sound weird!

Pubraseer: Okay, that's all of us. Let's get going.
Isaribi: Then I guess Lilac and MC should drop their stuff off first?
Gorou: Right, they're not here much. You got reservations already?
Lilac: Yes, Hisaki recommended a place that takes the VIP ticket. I heard you have a reservation at the same hotel, MC?
MC: Yeah! / I really have to thank Hisaki...
Pubraseer: Okay. Lilac, can you lead the way?
Lilac: Sure, it's by the spaceport.
MC has a big bag. Gorou comes up to talk.
Gorou: I'll carry that for you. Can't let it all fall on your shoulders.
MC: Oh no, I'm fine. / Thanks / Can I get on your shoulders!?
(A) Isaribi: Tee hee, you got rejected.
Gorou: They're just being nice! You oughta carry Lilac's bag.
Lilac: No it's okay! I shouldn't ask Senpai to do that.
Gorou: Aww, you got rejected.
Isaribi: I did???
(B) Gorou: It's cool, I do this all the time at work. Isaribi, take Lilac's bag.
Isaribi: Oh okay!
Lilac: No it's okay! I shouldn't ask Senpai to do that.
Gorou: Aww, you got rejected.
Isaribi: I did???
(C) Gorou: Hah, sure! I haven't done that since my kids did that.
Isaribi: Isn't MC an adult though?
Pubraseer: Yeah, what if you bump them against something?
Lilac: I-is that really the main issue for everyone...?
And so everyone walks over to the hotel.

Later
Lilac: Okay I'm done.
MC: oh my god the price tag / hooray VIP treatment!
Pubraseer: Yeah it's nice. Lots of good food.
Isaribi: Wanna go eat? I know a place that uses the fish we get. Kinda pricy, but the ticket should make it affordable.
Gorou: Booze!
Lilac: How about checking out an activity first? Makes lunch taste better after
Gorou: Hmm, makes sense.
Isaribi: Oh my god you AREN'T going for booze? ...wait, you wanna go to the beach's beer garden, don't you!?
Gorou: What, you want booze too don't you?
Pubraseer: Well either way, what do you want to do MC? Maybe look at the sea at the beach? They have a boat tour.

Pubraseer looks at his phone. MC nods, so Pubraseer wags his tail.
Pubraseer: Cool! Now let's finally get this trip rolling and--whoops almost got too excited.
Gorou: It's cool. You're fun when you're drunk! MC, how about we loosen him up by going to that beer garden?
Pubraseer: No wait, it's too soon to let loose like that!
Hey wait, there's someone familiar over there.
MC: Wait...
Sadayoshi: ...oh, it IS you MC.
MC: Wow Colonel, been a while!

Sadayoshi stands up straight and salutes.
Sadayoshi: I'm surprised to meet you here. How are you?
Gorou: Wow, formal. You know MC?
Sadayoshi: Yes, I'm Ikusabata Sadayoshi, commander of Japan's National Defense Bureau's first hero squad.
Isaribi: what
Lilac: Oh, that's where MC is from. A Defense Bureau hero squad captain, huh?
Pubraseer: You know a military hero? Wow.
Sadayoshi: Yes, I have a favor to repay to MC and Parallel Flight for a previous incident.
Isaribi: what
Gorou: MC what fresh hell did you stick your nose into
MC: Haha, I have SEEN things. Thanks for everything Sadayoshi.

Sadayoshi smiles.
Sadayoshi: So you are all MC's friends? Pleasure to meet you.
Lilac: Yes, thank you. We're heroes from Laborer's Site. We've all worked with MC before.
Pubraseer: Same here. But today we're all together for vacation.
MC: So we have Gorou, Isaribi, Pubraseer, and Lilac. Kind of a lot now that I think about it.
Sadayoshi: I see... I came here because I was told to go on vacation as well.
Sadayoshi starts thinking.
Gorou: Oh cool. Nice place, huh?
Lilac: Lots of activites here.
Isaribi: Food's good! Fisherman's guarantee the fish is fresh!
Sadayoshi: O-oh, yes... MC?
He seems overwhelmed.
Sadayoshi: How does one spend their vacation?
MC: WHAT
Sadayoshi: My superiors do tell me to take time off on occasion to relax, but I've never been away so long before. I've done some working out at the hotel gym, but what else should I do?
MC: hold up I need to process this / Whatever you want! / so military
(A) Sadayoshi: I usually finish all my activities on breaks if I have a day or so. The rest of the time I usually go back because there's so much to do...

Lilac: Does that mean you like moving around, Sadayoshi?
Sadayoshi: Not in particular. I'm just used to exercising every day.
Gorou: Uh, then why come all the way over here?
Sadayoshi: My father referred me to here. I did some preparing when I heard of the sea of stars, but I still don't know what to do with myself now that I'm here. Where are you all going?
Lilac: We're about to check out the beach. Maybe swim or play volleyball.
Sadayoshi: What is this "volleyball" you speak of?
Lilac: 2v2 beach sport, don't let the ball drop on your side.
Isaribi: Sports are awesome for having fun!
Sadayoshi: Hmm...
Sadayoshi seems interested. MC turns to the Laborer's Site gang.
MC: What do you guys think of taking Sadayoshi along?

Isaribi: It's cool with me!
Lilac: I'd like to know one of your acquaintances more.
Pubraseer: If he's okay, sure. It's good to spend time with your friends.
Sadayoshi: Are you sure?
Gorou: It's cool! I already invited you.
Sadayoshi: Thank you, I'll be sure to watch and learn about enjoying a vacation.
Gorou: In that case, start by loosening up, haha.
Sadayoshi: I'll try my best.
Pubraseer: (looks at phone map) So I'm seeing recommendations for an island tour at the beach area. There's still time to join, so how about that?
Isaribi: Oh yeah, that. They got this little cruiser and you can buy food and souvenirs.
Gorou: Sounds good.
Lilac: Okay. If there's some time before it goes, then we can also hang around the beach first. Did everyone bring swimsuits?
MC: Ooh, a tour! / Swimsuits!? / Let's have fun!
Sadayoshi: Yes I have. I'll be a moment.
Sadayoshi bows and runs off.
MC: This is gonna be great! / mmm, swimsuits
And so MC thinks about the fun times ahead as the blue skies spread out outside the hotel windows.
End of Episode

Live A Hero Heroes Battle Arena Pre-Battle Skits (Abridged)

Team Random Summer Collection
Andrew: Next up...oh, you're here MC?
Hisaki: Figures, what with the grand prize!
Marfik: Yeah, my survey team told me to get me!
Gaius: I can't believe I had to change out of my wetsuit for this. Whatever, I need natural lake preservation money.
Hisaki: I'll do my best too!
Marfik: Haha, nice! Me too!
Andrew: Deploying battle systems! This is exciting!
BATTLE START

Team Intellectuals
Flamier: Ohhh, that red hot flash when you took your shot, Roiker! Don't you agree it's beautiful MC?
Roiker: U-uh, did you have to pair me up with something so dangerous in that sentence? Santetsu, Kyoichi. We're about to start the next fight, get ready.
Kyoichi: 'kay! Santetsu, stop reading and join the party already!
Santetsu: No. And stop pushing, we literally just met today.
Kyoichi: Damn, harsh! But also weirdly arousing...
Santetsu: Weirdo. Uggggh, this sucks.
Roiker: Can we just...get into formation already?
Flamier: I'm going to throw all the bombs right now!
Santetsu, Roiker, and Kyoichi: NO WAIT STOP
BATTLE START

Team Chocolate Circus
Yasuhiko: Wow MC, you're here too? No mercy, I got a circus to keep up! Let's go Vul... Jo... what are we calling you again?
Vulpecula: I'm Giovanni, remember? ...how did I end up here? I must be getting soft.
Furlong: O-oh! Hello MC, let's have a good match... why did I agree to this? Well, I can do this! I can do this!
Blue: Yeah you'll need to get in the game or we're screwed. Go easy on us! Hey Bro, get ready too!
Yasuhiko: Stop calling me Bro, dammit!
BATTLE START

Team Bears (and Gammei)
Gorou: Oh, hey MC. Wow you got far. Here for the grand prize?
Polaris Mask: Too bad, we're gonna win with the greatest tag team ever!
Borealis: Loud. I came all this way because I heard I could see MC. Well, I've seen MC and now I'm leaving.
Polaris Mask: Oh come on man, I need you for Team Great Abyss!
Gammei: WHY AM I HERE!?
Polaris Mask: Haha, Tsukinowa means bear!
Polaris: Oh. Communicating with him is a waste of time. Got it.
Gammei: I still don't get why I'm here, but fine! I'm winning for my meal ticket tomorrow!
Gorou: If I win, I'm getting enough booze to fill a bathtub.
Polaris Mask: Right, bring it on MC!
BATTLE START

Team Girl Squad (and Viscunam)
Viscunam: Gwahaha, my super power sound system is completed! Everyone will remember me now!
Sensettia: Yeah, sure, right. You've just stood there all day!
Anna: Yeah, Vikky! Like, come on, party it up with us!
Hitomi: Oh, how about we have a victory concert after this?
Anna: OMG Hitomimi, that sounds SO awesome!
Hitomi: Yay, here's to our new temp collab unit!
Viscunam: Girlies, what are you doing without me...?
Sensettia: Aw, don't worry about it Vikky. You can take center stage!
Anna: Okay everybody, let's kick it up!
BATTLE START

Team Procy's Gang (and Hydoor)
Hydoor: Damn, you made it this far MC? Figures.
Procy: Okay sorry MC, but I HAVE to win because my bar is in the red!
Phein: Procyon, I don't think that's something you say out loud in public.
Hydoor: I don't care about the money, I'm just here to pay you back for your help. Let's do this thing!
Gomeisa: Wow, Hydoor! Me going to dance support hard for everyone!
Hydoor: I'll be DPS! I can flood the field if I have to!
Phein: Don't...I suppose that means we need to win before he tries that.
Gomeisa: It okay! If field ocean, me carry you on shoulders!
Phein: ...Procyon, we're taking point and going in hard and fast. Got it?
Procyon: Right, probably the best idea. Let's show MC how we fight in the slum hood and GET THAT MONEY!
BATTLE START

Team Virtual Festa Royale
Rexer: MC, I knew we'd see each other here!
Cerastium: Impressive. But we've been training and won't be losing!
Toshu: Those blinded by wealth and fame cannot fight in top shape and thus will lose...but you know as much already.
Shaft: In this arena, we need both individual strength AND teamwork! I'm glad we can face off like this!
Rexer: Right, now we just have to let the moves do the talking!
Cerastium: Right. Let's keep at it until the end!
Shaft: No holding back today!
Cerastium: See our justice!
Toshu: Behold what lies beyond serene clarity!
Rexer: Game on!
BATTLE START (there is technically more in the rerun but it's mostly congratulatory fluff I don't feel like going over)

Fabulous Summer Host Prologue Part 2 (Abridged)

Flashback!
Hakumen: IT'S AN EMERGENCY
Literally the first thing out of Hakumen's mouth at a Tycoons meeting.
Cait Sith: W-what, are we at war?
Hakumen: It's about the TSL!
Hakumen immediately notices the people who don't know what she's talking about.
Hakumen: Come on, you know what that is!
Gyumao: It's that indoor summer resort Hakumen and I made together.
Hakumen: Yes, that! But then Andvari had to go make HIS resort and how DARE he improve upon our perfection!

Ophion: Can you get to the point?
Hakumen: Oh okay then. Let's kick his ass!
Nobody reacts. Well, except for Licht.
Licht: Nooo, if we do that then--
Hakumen: Now now, I mean in business.
Lucifuge: Nice! One question: why are the rest of us here then?
Hakumen: I'd like the whole guild to collab this time. Also Xolotl, you know what the service resort needs more of?
Xolotl: U-uhh, consideration and effort? EEP!
Hakumen: You're not wrong, but are you suggesting I be nice while managing things? Melusine, what do you think?
Melusine: ...I think there's more than one answer, but I believe you're referring to competition?
Hakumen: Yes! Let's compete with our ideas and make the TSL C-Side Resort even better! I've asked non-managers here too, but you're all in right?
Xolotl: D-do I have to?
Hakumen: Yes, try to steal the top out from under us!
Ophion: Ha, I will join!
Takeminakata: W-wait, where is this gonna happen?
Hakumen: The beaches at Odaiba!

Present
Ophion: And that's what happened. I came here to invite your help since a summer host club is a totally new idea!
Ophion sneaks a look at MC.
MC: Yeah I guess it is / Inconceivable! / Oh okay. What'd everyone else say?
Y'golonac: Ya decidin' offa that?
Ophion: WIIIIFE! I have a question as I believe most people are plotting and scheming and worrying about getting first place.
Y'golonac: Oh no I'm bein' ignored!
Ophion: Lucifuge is asking Akihabara's golem master to make some sort of golem house contraption. I believe the guildmaster sent a proxy to ask for help making some trick art labyrinth. The people not asking the Creators for help have gone to the Entertainers instead. Cait Sith's planning some abandoned school haunted house. Xolotl wants to make an audience participation musical? And yet he cried in worry about being casted too. And Aizen's going to put on a lame, preachy radio program.
MC: They all sound awesome!

Y'golonac: Okay, I'mma go too, maybe find sumthin' nice to eat!
Tsukuyomi: (while thinking) Okay, we'll be happy to help. Except Y'golonac will supervise because I can't leave Kabukicho.
Y'golonac: WHAT
Tsukuyomi: What? You help out with management here too don't you?
Y'golonac: 'cuz you won't. Are ya doin' this to sleep through the day?
Tsukuyomi: (Night Emperor's Charisma smiles) Partly. The other part is because I think it'll be good for your character development.
Y'golonac: Didn't ya say the same thing when ya made me take care of MC...?
Tsukuyomi: Did I? You really have developed your character a lot and changed since then!
MC stands as Y'golonac's equal instead of being an offering. Tsukuyomi looks at them.
Tsukuyomi: Also you came to apologize, right? You'll need to show some good faith then and do this without using your special power.
Y'golonac: I've been dun tricked!

Ophion: Hang on, you can't expect this to work without you, Tsukuyomi. You're the number one host.
Y'golonac: HEY! I'm number two here!
Ophion: How good can you be without using your power?
Y'golonac: GASP! Ya wanna see yerself!?
Tsukuyomi: Y'golonac is great as a host and manager, I promise.
Ophion: But still... wait, are you saying this is going to be good for Y'golonac's character development as a host?
MC: He could be number one host, I've seen him work hard for it fighting it out.
Ophion: WIIIIFE! Hmm, you make sense! If we are doing a competition, we should have more participants! Tsukuyomi I still want you to join, but on a different team than Y'golonac's. Go be a boss character for him to fight!
Tsukuyomi: Hmm, that sounds like fun...

Tsukuyomi calls for Tetsuya and Suzuka.
Suzuka: What's up?
Tsukuyomi: Question. Can you two hold the fort while I'm out?
Tetsuya: You seriously expect us to fill in for you?
Tsukuyomi: Don't think I haven't noticed when you secretly help out. You've got charms on my level.
Suzuka: I'm kicking your ass if you're calling out to go napping.
Tsukuyomi explains he'll be working elsewhere and somehow convinces them of this.
Suzuka: Oh, okay then.
Tetsuya: We'll survive, I guess. Get our names out while you're off.
Tsukuyomi thanks Tetsuya and Suzuka! ...in kisses.
Tetsuya and Suzuka: WHAT THE HELL MAN (punches Tsukuyomi and leaves)
Tsukuyomi: It's cool, their love language is violence. Oof.

Ophion: Everything seems in order then. One more thing! I want MC, my WIIIIFE to join in on this as well.
Y'golonac: Back off, MC is MINE!
Ophion: Who ARE you to MC anyways!?
MC: nothing / roommates? / my adoptive daddy
---
(A) Y'golonac: Why ya gotta be so cold, MC!?
(BC) Y'golonac looks smug.
---
Ophion: Hmph. You've been with MC all this time and somehow never saw their host potential? MC, show him what you've got while I be the customer!
MC: uhhh / (be excited and get changed) / Pazuzu impression!

Later
Tsukuyomi: Welcome Ophion. MC, greet him.
MC: Hello I'm MC. This way please.
Ophion: Ooh, nice. What service will you do?
MC: I've been counting the days until I saw you / It's punishment time, lizard boy / meeeh. effort
(A) Ophion: Me too. How shall I love you? Shall I give you a token of my love or pour it out for you?
MC: both / (take his hand and look into his eyes) / give me all your love
Ophion: Yes! YES!
(B) Ophion: Oh, you plan to top ME? I can take it!
And then Ophion comes in closer!
(C) Ophion: Oh you know how to play with me so well. How about I get you into the mood?
And then Ophion tries to push MC down!

Y'golonac: Oh my gawd STAAWP!
Ophion: Rude. Are you a helicopter parent or something?
Y'golonac: Shut up, you. MC, he's dangerous!
Ophion: I have no issue playing along with your terrible parent act. Shall I force you to accept my relationship with MC?
Y'golonac: UGH this guy is totally the type to barge in and act like he owns the place!
Tetsugyuu and Ellie walk over.
Ellie: So like opening up a new store elsewhere is cool and all, but why does MC need to go?
Tetsugyuu: Yeah!
Ellie: And why do they need to be a host? What if they get all the freaks who ask to suck their blood and--actually that sounds good right now.
MC: QUEEN FREAK / God, I'll be fine! / it's okay

Tsukuyomi: Hmm. Maybe we need a bodyguard too then. You come with us, Tetsugyuu. And uh...Shino, can you come over here?
Shino: Understood. I shall guard you with my very life.
MC: HELP?? / Nice / Stop treating me like a baby!
Ellie: Then I want to go with MC too!
Tsukuyomi: But it's going to be a day job and we can't both be away from Kabukicho.
Ellie: I guess...but if anything happens to MC I will kill everyone in this room and then myself.
Since Ophion has already asked Tsukuyomi to go, Ellie resigns herself into staying.
Tsukuyomi: Okay Y'golonac, you're in charge of organizing everything.
Y'golonac: By myself!?
Tsukuyomi: We can't send help from out here, so we'll need to hire temp people. I'll handle my own team, you fill out yours.
MC: do you even know anyone / Good luck, Y'golonac! / what do I do?
Tsukuyomi: Could you help Y'golonac's team?
MC: Okay / aww, I wanted to be with you~ / fiiiine
(B) Tsukuyomi: Aww, thanks. But there's something only you can do.

Tsukuyomi: Shino, Tetsugyuu, you two join the host lineups too. You'll be on Team--
Shino and Tetsugyuu: We want to be on Team MC!
Shino: I must repay MC for helping me when I knew nothing of Kabukicho!
Tetsugyuu: And I gotta help Boss for all the help they gave me!
Tsukuyomi: Aww, no one wants to be on my team.
Shino and Tetsugyuu RPS to figure out who goes where. Shino wins!
Shino: YES I W--ahem, I will cut down down any threats who approach you. Be at ease, milord.
Tetsugyuu: WAAAH Boss I loooost!
Shino: Go away! It should be ME getting MC's attention!
Y'golonac: Oh gawd how am I gonna do this?
MC: Ophion are you sure about this? / (facepalm) / Let's do this!
Ophion: Maybe I asked the wrong people... Well whatever, I'll win if I have MC as a host!
Tsukuyomi: We'll make it happen. Right, Y'golonac?
Y'golonac: I-I'll show ya! MC, we gotta fill our lineup!
Tsukuyomi: Oh right, me too. How am I doing this...?
And that's how Y'golonac became a seasonal host manager.
End of Episode

Fabulous Summer Host Prologue Part 1 (Abridged)

Some bar
Y'golonac: Heeey baaaybeees! Geheheh, thanks for comin', y'all!
Mobs: Yeeeaaaah, [REDACTED] us, Y'golonac!
Y'golonac: Oh fiiiine. It's a secret, mkay?
Y'golonac licks his hands! The mobs are SO into this!
Y'golonac: Now keep quiet now, ya hear?
The abyss of desire~!
Kabukicho
Y'golonac is going home for the day. Night. Whatever.
Y'golonac: Whoo, good day! Tsukuyomi's gonna name ME the Emperor of the Night soon gwehehe!
Loud stomach rumbling.
Y'golonac: Aww man, late night ramen sounds good right about now...

Y'golonac notices MC down the street!
Y'golonac: who dat? You gonna get sick sleeping out back there.
Y'golonac tries waking MC. MC barely responds. Y'golonac gets hungry...
Y'golonac: No witnesses... maybe I can eat this instead!
MC: hot old man... / help. hungry. lost. / (scared stiff)
---
(A) Y'golonac: Aww, thanks! Not that it'll save ya!
(B) Y'golonac: Well looky that! I'm hungry too! And I'm low on faith soooo...
(C) Y'golonac: It's okay, I'mma make it feel good!
---
Y'golonac holds his hands out and is about to get their mouth around MC's head when he sees their eyes and suddenly flashes back to his own summoning and projects onto MC!
Y'golonac: Hmmmm...what IF I took ya back to make my chore boygirlthing? Oh mah GAWD I'mma genius! Easy job, here I come!
Y'golonac picks MC up and runs back. And that's how MC became part of the Kabukicho Outlaws.

Later
Y'golonac: HEY YOU GUUUUYS! Lookit what I got!
The Outlaws are unimpressed. Y'golonac sometimes shows off random junk his customers give him, but not this time!
Suzuka: DAMMIT Y'GOLONAC why'd you go and kidnap a civvie!? We keep telling you to not do this shit!
Y'golonac: B-but I didn't! I just found them on the street and had to do somethin'!
Suzuka: So you decided to pick up a servant boygirlthing.
Y'golonac: You're so mean to meeee! Uh, this is...Kabukicho pride stuff!
Gyoubu: That's nice, but you still can't go picking up every stray you find. We still need to figure if we're going to take them in.
MC: hot dignified older man! / sorry for bothering you / (look scared)
(A) Gyoubu: No teasing now. You don't seem bad though...
Suzuka: Uncle, be a little more disciplined here.
Gyoubu scratches his head while Tsukuyomi speaks up!
(B) Gyoubu: Oh no, the puppy eyes... well it's the King and Queen's decision.
(C) Suzuka: Nice, Uncle!
Gyoubu scratches his head while Tsukuyomi speaks up!

Tsukuyomi: Ehh, seems cool with me if Y'golonac takes care of them. You found them first, after all.
Y'golonac: But I'm a loser who can't take care of myself! My place is cramped and dirty, bad place for someone else ya know?
MC: Yay! / help please / (SHAKE YOUR DAMN HEAD)
---
(AB) Y'golonac: uhhh baby I tried to eat you earlier
(C) Y'golonac: See!? ...also damn, ya don't have to be such a bitch about it. Maybe I SHOULD eat ya--(bonked by Marchosias)--OWWIE
---
Ellie whispers to Tsukuyomi.
Ellie: Really, Tsukuyomi? I'm pretty sure Y'golonac's gonna try something.
Tsukuyomi: True, but it'll be fine. Kid's not that weak, and Y'golonac can use some character development.
Y'golonac looks annoyed.
Y'golonac: (Meh, I can always eat 'em later and make something up! Hell they might just run away from havin' to do all my dirty laundry!)
And so the days slip on by.

Some time later
Barong: Dude Y'golonac we are TOTALLY good partners, I'm saying!
Y'golonac: NO! And stop followin' me!
The Suidocho students are right at Kabukicho's border.
Barong: But your Desire Corruption and my Complete Usage desire totally match! You can even take my share of the money!
Y'golonac: No deal. Also, your night shows would schedule conflict with my host job!
Barong: What about day time shows then?
Barong is a VERY stubborn guy.
Y'golonac: I only go to Suidocho because Tsukuyomi can't be assed to manage things himself. I can't just not!
Barong: You're no fun, lover boy.
Y'golonac: GO AWAY! I got MC to feed!
MC: Welcome back, Y'golonac / except not really? / you lying prick
(A) Y'golonac: Aww, ya came to pick me up? Gweheheh!
(BC) Y'golonac: Ya couldn't wait to see me, huh? I know how ya are.

Barong: Oh my god MC, Y'golonac is being so mean to meee!
MC: Treat your friends better / back off he's mine! / Just kidnap him or something
---
(A) Barong: Yeah, Y'golonac!
Y'golonac: Creep!
(B) Y'golonac: O-oh...!
Barong: Aww, cute. Lemme join in!
(C) Y'golonac: GASP! Are ya still mad about me tryna eat ya back then? I said it was my bad already!
---
Barong: Aww come onnn. How about a trial run?
Y'golonac: Just ask the techies for a video!
Barong: I mean, it's good to want a big audience! I just want someone who'll totally use me and run me hard into the ground~!
Y'golonac: Ruuuude. Ya serious about askin' me?
Barong: It's a compliment! You make people shine!

Sudden interruption!
Y'golonac's Regular Mob A: Ohhh, Master Y'golonac! I finally have an offering for you!
Y'golonac: WHOMST? Uhh...who you
Mob A: I'm your stan worshipper #1! Sorry I haven't made offerings lately.
Y'golonac: O-oh, okay! (literally who)
Mob A: I finally found a nice present! (holds up Some Thing)
Y'golonac: OH MY GAWD ya can't just pull that out in fronta MC!
MC: what am I even looking a--(Y'golonac covers MC's eyes)
Y'golonac: So like thanks but no waitin' outside the bar for me like a stalker, mkay? Cool kthnxbaiii
Mob A: Noooo!
Y'golonac grabs MC and Barong and turns to go!
Y'golonac: wait Barong why are ya here?
Barong: You grabbed me. So, deal?
Y'golonac: Oh hit the road dammit. Lesgo MC. (dumps Barong and bails)
Mob A: weeeh, why won't you love me, Master Y'golonac?
Barong: You got dumped too huh? Hey, wanna see my dance show?
Mob A leaves.
Barong: Aww, don't leave me hanging! But then again I'm here, so things can't be all good. Hmm...

Later
MC and Y'golonac go to Tsukuyomi's bar.
MC: Uh, you sure about leaving like that? / You can't treat your customers like that! / omg ambushed by fans!
---
(A) Y'golonac: Well whaddya expect? No business allowed outside business property.
(B) Y'golonac: But all my baby worshippers look the same. Ya can't even expect me to remember every Foreigner, mkay.
(C) Y'golonac: They scared ya? I'mma kick they ass next time then!
---
Okay, Mob A didn't follow along. And now Bael comes out!
Bael: Okay, I'll call when I'm done handling the dine and dashers.
Marchosias: Thank you, especially since business law isn't your specialty.
Bael: We're fellows in the same business. Also I've been paid and I need to flex my position with some noblesse oblige.
Tsukuyomi: Ooh, maybe we should hire you as our on call consultant. You have that devil's legal knowledge stuff.
Bael: I'll take that as a compliment. Also, no thank you.
Bael turns around and notices MC and Y'golonac.
Bael: Oh. Hello MC and Y'golonac.
MC: (polite greeting) / Leaving already? / Tail! Fluff! Now!
(B) Bael: I was, but I want to ask Y'golonac something.
(C) Bael: No, not this time! (dodges MC and turns to Y'golonac)

Bael: So I've been hearing this host club has been doing unseemly things to gather customers. And lots of them are going berserk for you, Y'golonac. Anything to say about that?
Y'golonac: Uhhhh, no? (badly whistles)
Bael: (HE KNOWS SOMETHING)
Bael keeps a poker face on. No evidence still.
Bael: ...I see. Good day. (leaves)
Tsukuyomi: ...are you still using your power? Sure, Desire Limiter Release helps in this biz, but only if it's temporary. Those desires will blow up somewhere otherwise, and the memories don't roll back. It's why you're being watched.
Y'golonac: I know, but how else am I supposed to help the guild?
Y'golonac is number 2 in sales.
Tsukuyomi: That's nice of you, but it's not like you have to help out. And if bad rumors start piling up, you or the Outlaws could--
Y'golonac: I'll just go and mooch off somewhere else if that happens! (storms out)
Tsukuyomi: Oops. Sorry MC, could you go talk to him?
MC: Got it! / Okay Big Bro / uggggh
Tsukuyomi smiles.

Later
Y'golonac: FINALLY it's over, gawd. He said all that, but I still gotta use my power or else I can't help out and pay back the Outlaws by bringing in the cash.
MC: Okay no more crying / wanna go apologize if you feel bad?
---
(A) Y'golonac: I ain't cryin', I'm just sad!
(BC) Y'golonac: Naw, man!
---
MC: I guess, but you're still helpful on the management side! / wow you really want attention
---
(C) Y'golonac: SHUT UP
---
Y'golonac: I mean I'm still being nicer, ya hear? Back in Old Ones I shuffled underlings every week!
Once upon a time in Old Ones, Y'golonac was shoved behind some brick wall underground. The only way for him to get out is to possess some sacrificial priest who summoned him. But then the priest's body wears out and he has to do it all over again.
Y'golonac: I still gave them power while they lived! How am I supposed to change how I do things now...?
MC: Do you still even need to do that in Tokyo? / Tokyo works different / You can't be free if you have to be scolded

Y'golonac: I guess, but I only know how to survive by eatin' people...and now I'm hungry! How about we eat out? Ya love the even-worse-for-ya-than-fast-food junk I make, huh?
Y'golonac pulls out some pot, throws in a ton of garlic and pulls out a big plate of cheese.
MC: nice / I'M GONNA GET SO FAT / You aren't supposed to have garlic and cheese anymore!
---
(B) Y'golonac: It's cool, I throw in healthy veggies too!
(C) Y'golonac: Nuh-uh you said no fresh cream or mayo last week. Tee hee.
---
Y'golonac sets the table. Ahh, the smell of arterial clogging~.
Y'golonac: Whoo, junk! We talk after this, mkay.
Y'golonac starts eating. He still seems kinda bothered.
Y'golonac: ...MC, will ya come with me to Tsukuyomi's after this?
MC: Okay! / (headpat) / Sure. I'm not eating any of that.

Later
Y'golonac: oh gawd what do I even say!? Uh, how 'bout we come back tomorrow? Oof my stomach hurts!
MC: You'll be fine / (raises fist) Sure I can make that stomachache happen
---
(A) Y'golonac: Ya promise? It better be fine or I'mma bite and lick ALL over ya like a candy bar!
(BC) Y'golonac: OKAYOKAY I was just kiddin', geez!
---
And then Y'golonac goes inside. Tsukuyomi is there with someone.
Tsukuyomi: Oh hey you two, this is--
Ophion: Roppongi Tycoons's Ophion. Oh! MY WIIIIIFE!
End of Episode part

Live A Hero Book 2 Chapter 2 Episode 13: Port Light (Abridged)

Parallel Flight
Akashi: So...
Mokdai: Like...
Sui: Yeah...
MC: tired
Day time. This would have been the last day on that business trip, but change of plans, store's closed. The gang's in the break room.
Akashi: ...is that all you have to say?
He seems mad.
MC: Um, something upsetting you...?
Akashi: You pulled another crazy stunt again! You know how worried I was!?
That all happened yesterday, by the way.

Akashi: You almost blacked out after what you did and we had to drag you out!
Mokdai: Yeah, Akashi and I had to take turns carrying you while Sui used her strings...
Sui: And then we regrouped with Grigory, Crowne, and um, Galvo?
Akashi: And then that weird WHITE thing started spreading!
Mokdai: And Grigory was all half-crazy like "oh my gooood how can the data say everything's normal!?"
Akashi: Yeah, then we had to throw our plans out.
Sui: Something about the lab acting as some wedge holding the world stable even if we got teleported.
Mokdai: And then he used his space healing magic for first aid, then flopped over for like four hours.
Akashi: ...oh right, did he ever say when we're meeting again? I hope it doesn't clash with Toshu's class.
MC: Oh...sorry guys.

Akashi: You're totally gonna do it again, aren't you?
Akashi keeps clenching and unclenching his fists. He seems really mad.
MC: wait, hold on now
Melide and Monomasa walk in.
Monomasa: Akashi, wait. It's not entirely MC's fault. It's mine too.
Melide: I get why you're mad...but I still have to thank MC for it.
Melide and Monomasa seem to have softened up.
Sui: Melide! Are you okay?
Melide: Yes, thank you. The doctor said my feelings have a large effect and to deal with the cause. But I can think and decide later if it hurts. It's like they know me better than myself...
Monomasa: Yes, Rakta's good. Glad he comes to Earth sometimes.
MC: (Aww Rakta, your mental care support is great!) That's awesome!

Akashi: ...so Melide, Monomasa. How are they doing?
Akashi leans back and forth on the back of a chair.
Melide: Exio and Yoshiori? Well...
Exio: Ruuude. I'm right here, you know.
Yoshiori: Melide, can I take this sign off...?
Akashi: PFFFT
Exio and Yoshiori are wearing signs of shame saying "We caused problems on purpose for everyone in the office."
Exio: Okay I get having to wear this in front of you Melide, but in front of MC...?
Melide: (smiles) No. Not until they say okay.
MC: (you know that is some pretty handwriting. Who did it? At least Melide seems happy)

Sui: I'm still worried... Exio, you said you can't live without MC anymore.
Mokdai: Yeah, if this happens again...
Akashi: ...we'd never stop beating ourselves up about it.
The gang, Melide, and Monomasa all look at Exio.
Exio: ...what? Okay fine, I'll explain. So like I said earlier, I can't pull any of this ever again for two reasons. First, my link to my parallel selves has been cut, so I can't DO any of all that anymore. Second, MC put an Observer collar on me.
Exio looks annoyed.
MC: did you have to put it like that? I mean it's kinda true but still.
MC observed and connected Exio, Yoshiori, Melide, and Monomasa.
Exio: Well, MC did like a Reverse Ether Search. Ether Searches quantify something an Observer says is needed and looks up what's around that.
Melide: ...MC connected us all together because they said you need us?
Exio: In cliched terms, yes...and it was all possible because I was disappearing. I still wanna say "how dare." (looks around) Anyways, if I hurt everyone and MC stops observing me, I'll poof out of existence or something.
He looks SO annoyed.

Melide: Exio, stop looking at MC like that.
Exio: Um, since when did you get more forceful?
Flustered Exio!
Melide: Since I decided everyone should stop ditching me to do their own thing.
Monomasa: ...I decided that too.
Yoshiori: Shove it up your--(gets bonked by Monomasa's squeaky hammer)--OW that thing is heavy dammit!
Monomasa: Do you need a reminder about what you did was wrong, Yoshiori?
Monomasa will totally bonk him again. Exio sighs.
Exio: Well anyways, yes I can't pull this stunt anymore and I've been hit with Observer object impermanence. I'll disappear soon if MC stops observing me.
Akashi: Uh-huh. But we know you'll still do it if you're desperate enough.
Akashi looks determined.
Exio: ...but I can't. Just ask MC.
Everyone looks at MC.
MC: Uhh...

So after that dream dive, MC got a peek into Exio's mind.
MC: I can see whatever Exio thinks and tries to do.
Exio: Yeah, I think getting connected to Yoshori, Melide, and Monomasa, but MC can read my mind whenever now. They'll also probably sense right away if I'm feeling anything hostile. Also the collar they stuck on me means I can't try anything crazy while they're here.
MC: Yeeeah. Crazy.
Exio is SUPER annoyed. But there's also some warmth deep down in him too.
Sui: I don't totally get it, but you're an open book now I guess?
Akashi: Really? Then again, MC's a WEIRD Observer.
MC: RUUUDE
Akashi: What? It's true...you do crazy awesome stuff.
Akashi whispers that last bit as his ears go red.
Mokdai: Well it's still Huckle's decision too. Let's call it a day here. MC, Monomasa, don't you two have to go soon?
MC: Oh right, that.
Monomasa: Yes, we all got out. Melide...
Melide: I know. I'll be watching them.
Melide smiles. Very forceful.
MC: (...she seems to be having fun, so that's nice.)

Yoshiori: ...hmph. Oh right, MC.
Yoshiori is facing the other way and sounds awkward.
Yoshiori: ...thanks for believing in me.
MC: That's my job / ooooh, are you blushing~? / ...
---
(A) Yoshiori: Pft, liar. And...sorry I did something that can't be forgiven.
That last bit is quiet.
(B) Yoshiori: Shut up, jackass!
Melide: Yoshiori, no.
Melide is getting better at handling Yoshiori.
Yoshiori: ...! ...never mind. ...thanks, and sorry.
(C) Yoshiori: ...I don't think you'll ever forgive me, but I still want to thank you. It's all thanks to you.
Yoshiori's voice trails off, but he sounds resolute.
---
Yoshiori looks away, like he knows he can't expect a response.
Monomasa: ...ready to go now, MC?
MC: Yep! (My stomach's empty!)
Time to go to the afterparty!

Later
Sui: I'm surprised since you were so against it earlier, Akashi...
Akashi: What? Monomasa's there too.
Mokdai: I guess, but I figured you were still going to complain like "you're going after all that happened!?" or something.
Akashi: ...yeah I'm worried about something happening to MC, but...
Akashi turns to Sui and Mokdai.
Akashi: If something does, you guys are here to help too, right?
Sui: ...heh, as long as you understand.
Mokdai: Yeah, doesn't look like we need to sucker punch you again into sanity.
Akashi: ...oh right that happened. I could totally sue, you kn--
Shared brain wave.
Mokdai: ...I wonder if the president is okay?
Sui: Yeah, they're discussing it now, but...
Akashi: Just gotta hope...
The gang sits and thinks about Huckle...

Elsewhere
Huckle: PLEASE ACCEPT...
Ryekie: OUR DEEPEST APOLOGIES!
Huckle, Ryekie, and Crowne: WE'RE SO SORRY
Customary Japanese bowing.
Grigory: Ummmm, can we just...not do this?
Awkward Grigory.
Seiichirou: ...well there's still some formalities to observe after all.
Seiichirou is slightly more relaxed than usual. This meeting is about more detailed healing after everyone got out of the Imaginary Point. Also more intel sharing, allegedly.
Huckle: ...we're really sorry about that lab in the Imaginary Point.
Grigory: Yeeeeah, it all blew up. HQ said "we can fix it!" but uh, nooope!
So forcing a Path open from an unstable world to a super unstable world is super dangerous, TWICE, with the second time being even rougher led to all this.

Grigory: Meeeh, it's all cool. I made the decision to do all that.
Seiichirou: I'm pretty sure they're talking about the cause of it happening to begin with, Grigory.
Exio. Who is he with?
Seiichirou: ...before, it might've been me apologizing.
The Alliance listed Exio as a part of them one time.
Huckle: ...I don't know how we'll calculate the damages we owe, but...we'll...pay...somehow...!
Ryekie: (Huckle, you're going pale! I'm dying here too!)
Grigory: Hmmmm. How about we forget about that bit for now?
Casual Grigory.

Crowne: Wait, what?
Grigory: Yuuup, forget allll about it! Again, I was the decision maker on site. We got some important data, and you know what? Zero Trust said I can do whateeever I want with the Imaginary Point and lab.
Crowne: what
Grigory: Yep. Whateeeever I want, especially if it's for Science™! The paperwork suuuucks, but still.
Huckle: ...Grigory, you're a tech consultant for Zero Trust, right?
Grigory: Mhmmm.
Ryekie: And they let you do whatever with that world!?
Grigory: I knoooow, right? Then again I'm sorta its discoverer and head researcher soooo
Seiichirou: ...it's just one more lab to them? Really? I don't think I've ever seen a manager get whole rights to a lab before.
Grigory: I mean, yeeeah it's worth a lot, but hard to figure how much. But anywaaays... how did you want to handle the responsibility thing?
Grigory seems tensed now. Huckle notices and thinks about everything. Not how he planned for it to go, but the main parts are addressed.
Huckle: Yes, we promise to keep Exio Grant at our agency.

Some restaurant
Danzo: Hey Little Boss, Monomasa! Over here!
MC: Danzo!
Galvo: Greetings to you both!
Monomasa: Galvo it has only been a day, how did you get so many bags?
Galvo: It is fascinating seeing all the differences in things from a parallel world! And I have so much money!
Danzo: That money's partly mine though!
Galvo: Oh, yes. I did not expect space yen and lahs would be different too.
Galvo bought a lot of books and popular items.
MC: ...Galvo / Galvie? / (grab Galvo's face and pull him closer)
(A) Galvo: ...my apologies for worrying thee. Fret no more.
(B) Galvo: A-art thou angry? Such is obvious but...w-wait! Please!
(C) Galvo: ...Mashta Obsubah, pray tee let go?

Galvo takes MC's hand.
Galvo: ...thank you for your considerations, Master Observer. Truly. Dost thou believe me in such?
MC: ...yes / don't do that ever again / still really mad now
(A) Galvo: I see. But I still leaned on thy grace and understand. Thank you.
(B) Galvo: W-well, I am not fond of promising unfounded on truth acts but...
Danzo: Hey Gal, maybe don't shake your head until Little Boss says okay?
Galvo: Oh, so the Lord Observer did well to attain that title? ...very well, I promise.
(C) Galvo: Ahh, I tried so hard yet the Lord Observer is still so ill-humored, Monomasa...
Monomasa: Wait, are you enjoying this...?
Galvo: How did you know? No wait, please! Set aside your fists, Master Observer!

Danzo: Well we can thank Gal later, but for now, cheers guys! Ready to open the bottle!?
Galvo: Yes! I need to talk about afterwards!
Monomasa: I was worried there'd be problems with him being a parallel worlder, but things seem fine?
Danzo pops a champagne bottle! The champagne bubbles out!
Danzo: First drink's for MC! (hands over a glass) This one's called the VIP! Nice way to end things, huh?
MC: I...might have caused problems for the boss and stuff...
Danzo: Really? He seemed fine when we all left.
Danzo seems really relaxed.
MC: ...thanks Danzo.
Danzo: For what? I'm the perfect servant boy who gets all the work done no matter how crazy!
MC: Well that too, but thanks for believing in me.
Danzo: ...you really need to say that now? You saw my dream and believed in me. (picks up his own glass) Anyways, thanks! ...ready for the Normal mode dance class? It'll be great!
MC: ...how about we redo Beginner mode again!?
And so the party opens up, both to enjoy the moment and to deal with things past and future.

Back to Huckle's meeting with Grigory!
Grigory: Mmmmm, that makes things complicated.
Grigory sounds unhappy. Partly because of the lab, but also the incident itself.
Grigory: Also, his shenanigans are on video so people are going to--
Huckle: Actually we might be fine there, I think?
Huckle seems surprised but stubborn.
Seiichirou: ...how so?
Huckle: We're under contract.
Grigory: whaaaat
Huckle: Remember, we asked for one edit of the NDA portion. "Parallel Flight retains the right to decide whether to publicize any of its members' private data regardless of Zero Trust's opinion."

Grigory: ...waaaait. Are you telling us to shut up about Exio?
Huckle: Oh no, I would never say it like that. I prefer "please pretend this never happened."
Grigory: Woooow the escalation~
Ryekie and Crowne look uncomfortable.
Grigory: So liiiike, how do you expect me to explain all that?
Huckle: Monsters did it. We all saw that.
Yep, that's what everyone said during the first aid session after escaping the Imaginary Point.
Crowne: All that unexplained VP we got was from other parallel world Exios, right?
Seiichirou: Apparently, so...
Ryekie: The only ones watching us were him and people in Zero Trust!
Grigory: ...waaait, yeah. Zero Trust people were watching too.
Huckle: Uh, yes? Are you saying they aren't bound by the contract?
Grigory: Um, well...are you for real?
Huckle: Yes.
Big smile!

Grigory: Aww maaaan, I lost the negotiation...
Seiichirou: Huckle please stop, I'm getting office flashbacks.
Huckle: (default smile) ...okay, that's enough of the surface discussion.
Huckle sighs. Business Huckle is off, Hero Huckle is on.
Huckle: We don't even have our premises straight here. All I can do is ask for things. It's fine if you want to research the data, but...
Ryekie: ...we'd like you to let us at PF handle Exio Grant.
This is something at least Huckle and Ryekie agree on.
Grigory: Whaaat? First you kick me in the shins and then offer a makeup present? ...why even go so far?
Ryekie: ...I'm still not fully on board. Our definitions of justice still feel incompatible! But his deepest wish is...
Yeah, everyone saw Exio's memories in that dimensional mud.

Ryekie: Seiichirou, you have opinions on the Broker don't you?
Seiichirou raises an eyebrow but says nothing.
Crowne: And Grigory? Huckle and I became heroes because...MC believed in us.
There are people who dream, and then there are people who become the first to believe in those dreams.
Huckle: Well, they in my case I started believing again but still...
MC observed Exio and believed in his bonds.
Huckle: Believing, and being believed in is our job. Because we're heroes.
Huckle has more to say, but Grigory is checking out.
Grigory: Fine fiiiine, I get it...
Those with armor hardened by reality. They are the soft, the gentle, the easily hurt, and the beautiful.
Grigory: Huckle, you're a loooot like the stupid president in Woden Industrial. Always chasing dreams.
Huckle: Yeah, directorial work isn't quite my thing, but it's not something people really do without dreams.
Grigory: You seem to be doing just fiiiine, sheesh. But okay, that's enough I guess.
Grigory leans back. This conversation can't go anywhere else. There's other things to address anyways.
Grigory: I still got that healing to do, mkaaay. Soooo much data to pick up!
Everyone Else: Go easy please?
And so the not-really-quick healing goes on and on...

That night, the park
Melide: Um, Exio you can take that off now. We're outside and going shopping.
Exio: Oh, right. Thanks. I'm getting forgetful now.
Melide needs to buy necessities for the office. Exio forgot about the sign because he's so used to dissociating even though there's only one of him left capable of perceiving himself. He barely has any usable abilities left. No more autopiloting and snapping back into reality at random. But for now? He's here with Melide.
Melide: Exio? I've decided I'm going to be with everyone from now on.
Exio (narrating): Melide turns to look at me and grabs my fingers. It's a slight warmth.
Melide: So next time? Let's all go to the Ferris wheel toge--
And now suddenly Exio is elsewhere with the Broker sitting behind some desk.

A tongue clicks. 'Exio, you fool. Did you think you could actually be happy? Did you want to live?'
Broker: Thank you for finally coming. You've always been rejecting my invitations.
HIM
Exio: Never saw a reason to come. Messed up today. Kindly send me back?
Exio (narrating): Ugh, I can't believe I forgot to block him. I can't laugh at MC when I let this happen. Who's really Unbalanced here? I feel like a kid.
Broker: Not yet, we should talk a moment after that interesting little trick you pulled.
Broker is making tea.
Broker: The Imaginary Point. How fascinating. And your viewpoint? Impeccable. You were right that location is outside my observable view, and that such a world is so tasteless. You'd have been right if you managed to pull your plan off. It wouldn't have been impossible to keep track of this world then, but very difficult.
It's pretty much impossible to make it impossible for the Broker to track this world. Especially if he plays for time and extra runs.

Exio: ...I don't need a play by play of my failure.
Broker: I actually came to congratulate you. You, them, and the monsters. Such growth.
Broker offers tea. A hollow gesture.
Exio: That was a monster? I thought it was just a gatekeeper.
Broker: That's a matter of perspective. Still, it's very interesting a failure like you I decided to dispose of brought about something so unexpected.
Is he smiling?
Broker: And now you've become so fragile.
Hmm. Is that the big idea for this conversation?
Broker: I thought I had to have the custom, MC, define phenomena...but now you are alone.
Exio (narrating): He walks over. Resistance is futile because there's nowhere to run.
Exio: Id Replica, kill him.
Id Replica: [Weird Screaming!]

Exio (narrating): Id Replica jumps out, what remains of it. It's badly damaged, and it jumps at the Broker by its own will.
Broker: Aha. You thought this would work? Whose technique did you think that was?
Exio (narrating): Time stop. I knew this would happen, but I can't just not.
Broker: It could have taken a bite from me if it were perfected. How frightening.
Exio (narrating): He's just playing along.
Broker: So. Are you afraid of losing your only self? Does it bother you to be down to your last life? How very much like a person.
Exio (narrating): The Broker touches my throat, then pulls my chin up with a finger. Disgusting.

Exio: Yes, I'm a real person. Unlike you.
Broker: ...are you actually saying I'm not a real person?
Exio (narrating): I said that out of spite, but he seems actually surprised.
Exio: Why the surprise? You're an enemy of mankind. And of all races. You'll lose eventually, like I did.
Exio (narrating): I sent all my contempt and anger...
Broker: ...heh. Ha. Hahahaha!
Exio (narrating): ...and he just laughs.
Broker: HA! We're the same? Going to lose eventually? And yet I am not a real person? HA! Utterly ridiculous!
Exio is surprised. The Broker seems to legit find this funny.
Broker: Okay, that's enough for today thank you. I hope you accept another of my invitations in the future.

Back on Earth again
Melide: Let's all go to the Ferris wheel together again. Do you think we can?
Exio (narrating): Back on Earth with Melide holding onto me. Maybe we will go on that Ferris wheel again. Hmm... I should pass on the popcorn if that happens, it's too sweet smelling for me.
Exio: ...okay. And let's keep living like we have been.
Melide: ...yeah, together.
Exio (narrating): Melide is determined, like she won't let go of me. Not that I want to let her go either. Anyways, I put up two Anti-Broker shield layers up...maybe I should teach this to MC too.
Flash of MC!
Exio: ...eh, why not. Melide, you've kept up with that magic charm right?
Melide: ...yes? You've told me to never forget to do it.
Exio: Good. Don't ever forget to do it like I did.
Melide: ? Oh, we should teach it to MC too, right? They're my sibling student now.
Exio: Wait, you're keeping up with that sibling idea?
Exio (narrating): I guess I'll have to take this seriously since Goal #1 is all I've got. I HAVE to go for the deus ex machina happy ending now. UGH. I'd totally ditch this weight on my shoulders if I could.
Exio: (frowns)
And then Exio looks up at the sky. What was that last smile in the end? Seems like it's a genuinely happy smile for the first time ever.

Later
Monomasa walked MC home and is now heading back to his own home.
Monomasa: ...are you awake, Monomasa?
No response. Nothing like back then.
Flashback!
Galvo: Hmm. We should support each other like they did.
Present
Monomasa: Hmm...
Monomasa thinks about his state of being and future.
Monomasa: ...are we supporting each other?
No answer. The night wind is cold.

Some hotel
Galvo: So many things I want to do! But what first...?
Hmm. Linguistic development and difference research as his job as a language specialist? Or researching how it happened as a wanderer? Pffft, worries about going back to his home world? What is that?
Galvo: I've really done it now! People are amazing!
What were once fantasies may one day become a path towards history.
Galvo: Oh yes I still must pay back those travel expenses. I suppose I must find work. And investigate while I am at it! But I should decide on a goal...
Flashback!
Danzo: What if there's some What-If Alter version of me out there like Akashi Alter? What would I do then?
Present
Galvo: Hmm...how about I search for this Akashi Alter?

Parallel Flight roof
Yoshiori is thinking about his presence there.
Yoshiori: Damn, I'm still here somehow after everything.
Yoshiori thought it would never happen...and now that he's gained things, there's things he doesn't want to let go of anymore. He's getting weaker. Yoshiori looks at the sign of shame.
Yoshiori: Seriously, how can they still trust me?
The sign is a message to feel bad about what he did so he can keep staying with everyone. And then Yoshiori thinks about the Observers. The one who found him, and the one who watches them.
Yoshiori: Is this some kind of reward? ...thinking about it that way is...nice...
And those things are hard to come by, he thinks again.

Some other hotel
Danzo's come back to Seiichirou. He himself says he's in a comparatively good mood. Things were rough, but he got something out of it.
Seiichirou: ...was the afterparty that fun?
Danzo: Hell yeah! I got two choices of Boss now!
Seiichirou: Are you trying to make me jealous? ...you're talking about MC, right? Fair enough.
He's figured as much.
Danzo: Huh...I didn't think you thought that much of MC. Something up for that?
Seiichirou: ...because they're an Observer I suppose. Their worth is hard to tell, but Huckle and Exio seem to have figured it out.
Calls done for the day. The rest can wait 'til tomorrow.
Danzo: ...what about That Thing? No answer with MC and the agency?
Huh. Danzo knows something most people don't.
Seiichirou: ...not yet. That's up to MC's choice. I'm looking forward to it.

Somewhere
Broker: Heh.
Broker's been laughing to himself for a while even after sending Exio back. He REALLY seems to be amused from before.
Broker: I'm not a real person! An enemy to all races, even! HA! ...still, it's an interesting opinion. And what he did has some value. Maybe I should learn from him.
The Broker starts pretending to be the enemy of the people hoped for.
Broker: I don't think I've felt this way since the beginning. Truly, thank you Exio Grant.
The Broker tries rebooting. No long boot sequence, no activation needed. The archenemy of people, the five originals who inevitably draw all observations.
Broker: ...alright then. It's true that a stabilized, stagnant enemy will die.
A foreign pulse the world says that should not be. Sheer depravity. Contempt from the untouchable.
Broker: Awaken, Primals. Trample upon this world once more.
End of Chapter