Live A Hero Valentine Cyber Wars Episode 1

Things begin somewhere in the Japanese sea close to the coast out in the Pacific Ocean on the dawn of February 13. Some unseen evil sounding criminal leader addresses his underlings and says that tomorrow is the day they start taking a step towards fulfilling their dearest wish. Whatever it is they plan to do, the leader says the effects will show themselves to the twenty million rats living in Orient City. The incarnation of evil Raidark will pay for the humiliation they suffered long ago, and while these guys are at it, why don't they all sit back and enjoy the birth of a new era on the Unified Earth as the idea of mutual trust collapses? And once everyone's done killing each other, why don't they move in and take over all the broken land for themselves afterward? The speechifying man raises his weapon up, then declares to his enthusiastic underlings that it's time to show the world the most terrifying weapon that is the heart!

 

Title card pops up, and this episode is called The Day of Reckoning is 2/14.

 

Camera then tunes in to Hisaki as he's proudly holding a presentation of his new product to a bunch of media reporters. You are watching this through a livestream of this, and the video is showing these reporters sitting down as they listen to Hisaki. A pop up window is hanging above them displaying their questions and replies as the event goes on. The presentation then shows the image of some hospital bed, and a patient incapable of speaking has a window above them and is using that to communicate with their friends and doctors instead. A final example scene of this product in action then has a planet in development where the natives who do not speak Common and negotiaters that do using the window to conduct business.

 

Hisaki then explains that his product can make it so that people can communicate just by thinking, with an AI collecting your thoughts and putting them into order. With this, we can now enter an era where people who can't speak Common for whatever reason can communicate without issue! Hisaki's company plans on developing the system some more and release it for commercial sale by the end of the year. A reporter asks if they can ask Hisaki a question, and when Hisaki gives the OK, the reporter brings up how society currently already has brain scanning technology that scans the frontal lobe and cerebrum to project a hologram of you. Hisaki's tech would be building on this tech further to create a pop up conversation window, so the reporter asks if there are any ethical problems or dangers associated with this even with the brain tracing happening. Does it have any preventative measures from, say, accidentally outing yourself about something?

 

Hisaki explains that his tech system works by reading a person's short term thought processes, and he compares this to it reading only the memory portion of a computer's processing. Anything a person wants to keep private will not be picked up on by this tech. On the off chance that something like that might slip by, an adaptive learning AI filtering system will be running simultaneously while active. Since Hisaki intends for the product as a conductive assistant tool for business negotiations, he's developing it to shut out irrelevant thoughts from displaying.

 

The reporter thanks Hisaki for the explanation, and others in the audience start talking aloud about how this could actually be useful if it does word your thoughts before you've finished putting them together. They also express amazement that Yodobashi Industries might actually try branching out into the networking business. Hisaki looks pleased with himself and laughs a little as everyone talks among themselves, but then one of the thought windows expresses doubt about this product working out well since Hisaki's so young. Hisaki is surprised to see this, and the reporter the thoughts belong to tries to explain it away in a panic.

 

Some other reporter's thoughts pop up and say the first guy is rude, since you can't say those things on live TV. They do sympathize with him, but they also think about how Hisaki looks fun to play with ever since they saw him. Reporter B freaks out about this, then remembers seeing something like this before and concludes this must be Hisaki's system at work. Hisaki attempts to deny it by saying that the system isn't actually on in the presentation site, and a window pops up demanding an answer as to why then. Meanwhile, someone else turns out to have mentally checked out as the window blabs their thoughts about wanting to leave since they had a date today.

 

Hisaki freaks out as he tries to figure out what's going on since the windows are displaying thoughts that he's sure people aren't having right this moment. He then realizes the system is tracing thoughts from the whole brain, which he is in disbelief about since it should only stick to scanning the frontal lobe. In his panic, Hisaki fiddles with his arm mounted terminal, which causes a bunch more windows to pop up. He figures out it's not on at all, which he can't understand since he says he's supposed to be the only one to know how to activate it. He doesn't even know why this is happening either since nothing like this has happened before.

 

As all this goes on, the presentation turns chaotic with all the wailing of the seventh circle of hell. One reporter tries their best to empty their mind while another worries about getting chewed out by their old geezer of a boss, which gets laid out to see by window pop ups. The two freak out upon noticing this, and one of them yells about not being able to go back to their office now. Hisaki freaks out some more about this being impossible even if it were a malfunction, and he repeats his disbelief to himself a few more times before the feed cuts out.

 

Scene then tunes in over at Parallel Flight where you guys are watching and eating take out burgers as the TV announcer uncomfortably cites technical difficulties before switching to commercial. Akashi comments on things turning into a mess towards the end and wonders if everyone over at the presentation is okay. You either agree that the thing was a trainwreck, ask Akashi to pass you some ketchup, or say Hisaki might be your type. In A, Akashi calls it a broadcasting accident and worries that something like that might happen to him tomorrow too now that he's seen it. In B, Akashi is disappointed you aren't paying attention, but he complies and warns you it's already open. He also asks if you want mustard. In C, Akashi is shocked that that's what you were paying attention to as he says you never do change.

 

Anyways, Huckle thinks aloud about having a window that writes out your thoughts for you would be an interesting development in technology before commenting that his burger is spicy today since there's a lot of onions in it. Ryekie on the other hand is on the phone and says he'll pass it over, then tells you Mokdai wants to talk to you. You react with surprise as you pick up the phone from him, then start talking. Mokdai apologizes for calling during your break and says it's nothing important. He's out on a four day vacation to go back home, though he started to worry about the office. You can either call him a workaholic, tell him things are fine, or say you're sad when he's not there. In A, Mokdai winces but says that might be true, though he knows how important it is to have a private life. In B, Mokdai laughs and thanks you. He saw your battle earlier while he was on the train and says you did good out there. In C, Mokdai blushes and considers coming back a little early, so Akashi tells you to stop joking since Mokdai's the type to take it seriously.

 

Mokdai tells you he just got off at Hakata Station, and he's about to meet up with his friends to go eat out at the Tenjin area. He promises to bring back souvenirs and offers to take requests when one of his friends calls out to him to hurry it up. Mokdai tells him to line up ahead of him in the local dialect, which he keeps up for a moment when he turns back before remembering to switch to Tokyo Standard. Since a friend is waiting he'll be hanging up, and he asks you to send a message if anything comes up, then ends the call. Akashi asks you about how Mokdai is doing, so you say he's fine, say he worried about how the office was doing, or say his accent was nice. In A, Akashi is glad and hopes he enjoys his time off. In B, Akashi is surprised but says that's like him, but he hopes he relaxes on his break. In C, Akashi nods along for a second before he stops and says that wasn't what he was asking.

 

Ryekie talks about how Mokdai is from Fukuoka and brought back mentaiko/cod roe once, which he'd like to have again. It goes great with booze, and it really gets him raring to go. Akashi sputters scandalized at this and asks what Ryekie saying there in the agency. Ryekie doesn't get what he means and asks what what's so weird about talking about what gives him the energy to work. Akashi goes oh at finding out that's what he meant, so you either ask what Akashi thought he did mean, tease him for being at that age, or call him dirty minded. A has Akashi claim it's nothing as he tells you to stop asking him since it embarrasses him. B and C has Akashi get really flustered as he tells you to stop looking at him like that.

 

Huckle points out to Akashi that some pie is sticking to his clothes, and after Akashi looks he gets surprised and mentions how much chocolate gets into things. Ryekie is surprised to hear that there's chocolate pie before remembering that Valentine's Day is tomorrow. Akashi says chocolate pie was added as a seasonal item because of that, so he picked it up for dessert. Huckle talks about how the smell of chocolate is everywhere in the city at this time of year, which can be distracting. It also reminds him of his surprise back when he first came to Earth and heard of the custom of giving chocolate and gifts to those you care about and want to thank. You either ask Akashi if he's giving chocolate to anybody, ask Ryekie if he can eat chocolate, or ask Huckle if he has plans tomorrow.

 

In A, Akashi is surprised to be asked that, but he admits he probably will. He asks if you will be giving chocolate to anyone yourself, and Huckle laughs to the side about how caring about that is a sign of youth. In B, Ryekie answers that he can, though he likes spicy things more than sweet things. He then talks about eating all the chocolate his fans send him, only to be thrown off by your expression and asks why you're making a face at him. In C, Huckle says he'll be going to work here as usual. If you want to give him something he says he's ready to accept whenever, only to say he was joking as he asks that you not take that seriously. In any case, the day then comes to an end without issue.

 

The next day, you get up and walk up to the mirror to get ready for the day, and you comment that it looks nice out, hope that things will be peaceful today, or mumble about being sleepy still. Whichever you pick gets repeated by a pop up text window that appears above your head like a speech bubble or chat window, and it takes a moment for you to process that in surprise. You think about how it popped out with what you were thinking before trying to make it go away. The window disappears after it finishes displaying your thoughts, and you start remembering that disastrous presentation you saw the day before. You wonder aloud as to why this window is happening to you now, but at that moment your phone alarm starts ringing, which reminds you that you need to get ready to go.

 

Outside, the thought window is affecting other people as well. One person thinks about being hungry despite having natto rice for breakfast, another person thinks about a hole opening in their sock and hopes no one noticed, and someone else is thinking about someone next to them being caked in makeup. Said person notices that thought and takes offense, so the original person protests about them reading their thoughts. Some storeowner gets mad at something thinking his veggies are expensive, so the guy he's talking to says it just came to mind when he saw the price tag before getting mad he read his thoughts. You worry about things turning to hell as the window problem isn't just happening to you as you continue making your way to work.

 

Over at the train station, one person thinks about how crowded the place is and wonders if the train is coming yet. Someone else is thinking that some lady next to them is wearing a lot of perfume and wishes they'd go away. She gets mad and tells him to go away instead, but he argues that she shouldn't yell from so close to him. A station worker attempts to break the fight up, but his thought window reveals he feels he's not paid enough to deal with this nonsense.

 

The guy the station worker is talking to complains that he had to pay an arm and a leg for a season pass, so he doesn't want to hear about it. The station worker apologizes profusely over this, an announcement is made on the speakers informing everyone that the entire train line is delayed due to conflicts happening between passengers. Random passengers have pop up windows expressing their frustration at the train workers over this, and tensions rise among the morning rush crowd. You worry about how bad things are turning out and think about taking a taxi to work instead, and as you turn around you almost slip on something.

 

It turns out you slipped on what would have been a nicely wrapped up box of chocolate, but so many people have stepped on it at this point that the box has broken and chocolate has spilled out. What would normally be a day full of positive emotions like gratitude and affection as presents are given is now filling with negative emotions pointed at other people. You comment aloud about things turning into a mess, and things aren't any better outside as you end up late for work.

 

When you do make it to the agency, you throw out a greeting and an apology for your tardiness as you say you're dead tired. Huckle greets you back, a bit tired himself as he says it's fine since he knows why you're late. He sighs as he goes back to his phone call, and he repeats what he was told about Sui locking herself in her room so the delivery will be late. Huckle says it's fine since Mokdai is out on vacation, then asks Maculata how things are with her. Huckle's pop up window has him internally sighing some more about what a mess everything is, and you note that Huckle is bothered too, think about this place being affected too, and think about Sui locking herself away.

 

Akashi is sitting over on the sofa, looking gloomy as he greets you. You either greet him back or ask about him looking depressed. A has Akashi ask if you got caught up in the chaos before saying it was rough. B has Akashi deny being down in some surprise and say bothered is more correct in his case. Either way Akashi questions what the pop up window is, since while it doesn't show up all the time it does come out at the most inconvenient times. He remembers how it's like what happened at that TV presentation when he glances at your face, at which point his thought window blabs that he feels better when he sees you. Akashi freaks out in embarrassment at this and tells you to stop looking at him as he desperately tries to hide it. You either casually accept this, claim you saw nothing, or tell Akashi you're happy to hear that. In A, Akashi is confused by your reaction but tells you to stop looking. In B, Akashi calms down a little but wonders why he's feeling conflicted about this now. In C, Akashi gets shocked as he accuses you of teasing him.

 

Ryekie loudly announces his return as he slams the door open. Huckle is taken aback at this and tells him to consider that he might be on the phone, though thankfully he just ended his call. Ryekie apologizes about this and says he never thought about it. You either greet Ryekie or ask if he came back from some sales work. In A, Ryekie greets you back and notes that things are rough out there. In B, Ryekie confirms as such and says that while it was tough, he shouldn't break promises.

 

Huckle thanks Ryekie for his work and asks how things were at the job site. Ryekie answers that it was also a chaotic mess over there, and his accompanying thought window repeats exactly what he's said. You and Huckle are surprised by this, and the window continues doing so as Ryekie talks about how everyone's thoughts getting broadcasted is throwing a wrench into the company workflow. Talks did progress but at great strife, and he sighs about being unable to think quietly.

 

Akashi reacts with amazed shock that Ryekie's thoughts and words are completely unchanged from each other, and Huckle starts calling Ryekie simple minded before thanking him for not being two-sided. Ryekie is taken aback at this and asks if this is supposed to be a compliment, and Crowne walks in, announcing her presence and saying it's bad out there. You either welcome Crowne or ask curiously about her not ringing the bell. A gets an extra line where Crowne greets you and notes that you still seem alright.

 

Crowne gets irritated as she turns to Ryekie and says it must have been him who left the door open, and she asks what would he have done if someone awful walked in. Ryekie apologizes about this and says he's made a lot of mistakes since he had to think about a lot of things at the sales job. Huckle greets Crowne and notes that she seems to be doing okay, or perhaps more accurately is the same as ever. Crowne says she's the type to speak her mind as soon as she thinks something, so the current incident isn't particularly an issue for her. She then talks about bringing a job to you guys, one that comes from the person with the biggest problem in this incident even with all the problems happening now.

 

You ask who this person could be, so Crowne gets a little irritated and prompts them to stop standing there and come in already. A slightly cowed voice answers back before entering, and Hisaki walks in and introduces himself by his full name. Akashi recognizes Hisaki from the televised presentation, as do you as you react in shock to him being here. Alternatively you cheer about Hisaki being fluffy, which brings up an extra bit of him being surprised by you suddenly touching him before enjoying how good you are at it. Akashi gets shocked as he tells you to stop and apologizes to Hisaki saying you're just like that.

 

Anyways, Hisaki sighs as narration says it is indeed him who's there, though he's showing none of the confidence he had when he started his presentation. Crowne says he's usually a lot more talkative, though she understands why he wouldn't be now. It is his invention causing this incident after all. Huckle asks if this means Hisaki is at fault for everything, so Hisaki quickly denies it and pleads for you guys to believe his innocence. He's not surprised you'd think that since everyone who saw the show thought the same thing. Crowne doesn't know what people have been saying to him, but they have been taking their toll on him. And since he hasn't been acting like himself, she's dragged him over. You ask who is responsible for what's happening then, so Hisaki says that's the problem he wants you guys to help him with. He balls his fists together as he bows down to you guys, and the episode ends with him requesting that you guys assist him with solving this terrorism.

Valentine Colosseo Episode 1 Part 2

Fergus starts narrating about how he once exchanged vows. One was with his friend Setanta, where they would both share victory if they find themselves on the battlefield again. Another was with his lover Medb, something he knew he was being sweet talked into. His sword had always wavered between friendship and love in his youth, so whenever he sees someone living in one way earnestly, he thought it was something bright to behold and something he was jealous of. Even so, he knows how fleeting it is, since it's something that can go so straightforward it slams into a wall of the world and shatter. Fergus wanted both love and friendship, so he was sure to lose both. But could he really be happy if he lived for only one of those things? That is the memory of youth that he's lost, and remembering this truth is still a ways away for him.

 

Camera then tunes in at Sunshine Street in Ikebukuro as Tanetomo is walking along looking at some chocolates. He rejects two options he comes across and says a third is closer but still missing something. He talks to himself about how Yasuyori could never understand the delicate flavor of one of those chocolates, then mumbles about how he needs something with a special touch that even people with plebian palates can appreciate.

 

Ellie turns out to be there with Tanetomo, and she yawns as she asks if he's giving something to someone he loves that much to be thinking about it so hard. Tanetomo denies this, so she follows up by asking if he's giving it to a friend. Tanetomo is unimpressed as he says Valentine's isn't about whether you love someone or are friends with someone. Not that he expected her to know, but wow she's a dumb bitch. Valentines and presents are an investment, something you use to control your relationship with someone, he insists.

 

Ellie says she doesn't really get what he's talking about, but she does see that Tanetomo is being well-behaved and thinking hard about his chocolates. Tanetomo is annoyed as he admits he knows she's being genuine, but he still feels like she's making fun of him. That aside he's surprised she chose to come along for his shopping, which is taking place in the middle of the day at that. Ellie answers that he told her he'd be buying chocolate, which is unusual for him and something she found interesting. She figures she should do some shopping too and wonders if she should pick what she's looking at for Marchosias. She then notices something with blood oranges in them and shows them to Tanetomo, saying they sound tasty.

 

Tanetomo sighs as he figures she's misunderstanding something and says blood oranges do not contain literal blood. That aside, he notices that things are getting loud and points out that fireworks were set off earlier. Ellie says she's heard that some super huge event is happening that even people in Shinjuku were talking about it. Tanetomo comments on sensing violence, so Ellie shrugs and says it's Ikebukuro and figures people are having street fights over chocolate. Tanetomo laughs at this idea and says it's too obvious, because it's not it's a certain someone doing all this.

 

Over at your side, Fergus is yelling kendo cries as he swings his swords, and you are surprised at how much will he's showing and how strong his skills are. Having said that, Kengo manages to evade the slashes and gets right into Fergus's space. Fergus is surprised by this and steps back, but Kengo pursues him and swings at him. Kengo thinks he's got Fergus dead to rights, but Fergus manages to defend by using the flats of both his swords to block Kengo's fists. Both glare at each other silently as the heavy mood thickens, but eventually Kengo calls off the fight and says he can't bring himself to keep going when he's fighting someone who won't go all out. He disengages and turns around.

 

The app announcement rattles off a notice about the battle being over and closes the barrier, and you and Fergus attempt to ask Kengo what's going on. Kengo repeats in annoyance that he doesn't get the feeling that Fergus is trying to win, then accuses him of not caring about the outcome and being okay with letting Kengo have this fight. Fergus looks sad but doesn't answer, so you try to tell Kengo he's going too far but agree that Fergus didn't seem to be trying to win and looked more like he was going along with things.

 

Kengo clicks his tongue. Fergus says he wasn't trying to lose, though he knows that isn't an excuse by itself. He apologizes for not meeting Kengo's expectations and says he's still got a long way to go as a fighter. Kengo is further annoyed by this and demands to know if that's all he has to say for himself, but Fergus just looks at his swords in silence. Kengo then storms off as he yells shit, and you try to call after him and ask where he's going.

 

Kengo decides to make a point about saying he was fighting for real here, and if you think he's the same as when he went along with things and got beaten for it, you're painfully wrong. Fergus asks Kengo if he's talking about love or friendship, but Kengo isn't interested in talking further. Fergus backs off on his question and says that was something he should have checked himself. He offers to put a geas on himself to show Kengo his answer next time they meet, though Kengo scoffs and says he doesn't know what a geas is, but Fergus better be prepared next time. Kengo then says he'll be heading off here, and he tells you not to lose before he runs off.

 

After Kengo goes, you comment that he left and wonder how much this is like him. Fergus comments on how heroic Kengo is, so you say that's not really the behavior of a hero, tease Fergus and say he's observant, or be glad he's complimenting Kengo. Fergus is surprised by your comment for a second before bursting into laughs and yelling youth again. You are surprised at this reaction, ask Fergus what's up, or tell him to stop shouting with no warning. He apologizes and says he just got caught up in the moment, so you wonder what you'll do and ask what Fergus will do next. Fergus thinks for a moment, then invites you to enjoy your youth with him.

 

Elsewhere random nobodies are cackling to themselves as they talk about how easy it is to grab chocolates among friends as they snap some pictures. Girl B says it doesn't feel like enough yet and suggests threatening weaklings for chocolates, and Wolf C wonders what they'll get if the win the whole thing. An unimpressed voice tells them to stop that since this is supposed to be a fun event, and Ikutoshi walks up. Guy A thinks Ikutoshi is a random kid and attempts to threaten him, but Ikutoshi ageshifts up and beats the group down.

 

The mobs run off yelling apologies, and Ikutoshi sighs about the endlessness of it all and wonders why he's even doing this. Pollux shrugs as he says it's orders from the headmaster and guildmaster, then says there's other Berserkers at the other side of the station. For now this is work. Ikutoshi says it seems like they're underhanded for that and says it seems like there's a lot of weaklings around. Pollux laughs and says it'll only be busy at the start of things since Claude said their job was to act as a deterrent. Ikutoshi asks if they're punishing rule breakers, then wonders how well that'll go since it's not Christmas. Pollux then nods as he looks at something, prompting Ikutoshi to ask what it is. Pollux says it's getting exciting as he tells Ikutoshi to look at the rankings, which surprises him.

 

Over in the big avenue by Ikebukuro Station's east exit, a large scale battle is happening as you and Fergus are advancing smoothly. Fergus laughs about not having to watch his back as he fights is the ideal for a warrior and the picture of youth. Others fighting in this free for all are shocked at how wild Fergus's fighting style is, and Fergus is beating people down like this is a musou game. You comment on how strong he is, but you can't lose either as you run in swinging too. Spectators gather around to watch the fight, and cheers echo through the area as you and Fergus dominate.

 

Ikutoshi more or less expected that you would take part, and he's impressed by Fergus's sword skills as he tries to remember his name. Pollux says you are too to synchronize with Fergus, and the way you two fight together is reminded him of Castor. But anyways, Pollux says that's how it is. Anyone who pulls sneaky tricks are no match to straightforward strength. And on the screen, the chocolate counts are rising.

 

Some time later, an alarm rings from every participant's phones as Snow starts speaking to Fergus's surprise. Snow declares it's break time now, and he'll let everyone know when it's time to start fighting again. He suggests that people sit down and talk since it's Valentine's and all. Several people who were in the same battle royale you two were in thank you guys for fighting them, holding no grudge as they hand over their chocolates. You say you're tired, but it was a nice battle where you felt the breath of youth for a second.

 

Fergus laughs and says this exchange feels pleasant when someone pulls at his sleeve to talk to him. This turns out to be a little girl, who stumbles over her words for a second before saying she wasn't in the fight but offers her chocolate anyways since Fergus was so cool. Fergus is surprised speechless by this, and several other people walk up and offer theirs too. You voice your surprise at being given a lot of chocolate too, say things worked out well for Fergus too, or say it's getting more like Valentine's now. Fergus agrees and says this is a page for youth.

 

Pollux laughs at the rankings suddenly shooting up for either you or Fergus, and Ikutoshi wonders if this is all according to Claude and Snow's plans. Pollux shrugs and says they don't need to know. Anyways back to your end, Fergus gives you some sparkling lemon sports drink of youth. You either thank him since you've been fighting this entire time or ask if lemon is the taste of adolescence, and C gets an extra line where Fergus talks about how a sweet and sour refreshing taste with bursting bubbles just fits right.

 

Fergus notes that the situation at the east end of Ikebukuro Station has calmed down and that you guys have received the feelings of youth from everyone. There must be other unseen youth flaring up elsewhere though, so he's thinking of going somewhere else and asks if you'll go with him. Going elsewhere is the only option you guys have anyways. You agree with the idea and suggest heading to the west station entrance. Fergus agrees, so you either say you'll go with him, shrug and stick with him, or say you have to go after Kengo. Fergus declares his trusting you to watch his back is also youth, and the two of you then move along.

 

Somewhere near the west exit at that time, Kyuuma is around and asks someone why they're going around with him since he's trying to do something privately. Shuten laughs and says it's because Kyuuma asked That Thing of him, and he swears he'll fulfill anything asked of him as he prompts Kyuuma to repeat what's on his mind. Kyuuma groans and asks how things came to this when he finally made it to Ikebukuro, and his despairing yell rings out as the episode ends.

 

Valentine Colosseo Episode 1 Part 1

Kengo starts narrating as he talks about having a question he's stalled on getting around to answering. The question pertains to his relationship to you. In the end, what exactly does he think of you? When it comes to liking or hating you, he's pretty sure he doesn't hate you. But what does liking you mean? What's he think of Shirou? Hate? Not like? And what about other people? Is there some sort of difference when it comes to liking? He doesn't know as his head isn't used for complicated questions like that. All he has going for him is physical strength. He has nowhere near the level of smarts or calmness that Shirou does. As such, all he can do is to focus on the one thing he has. He wants to show that he's the strongest of anyone around. Then he'll get the one answer he can have waiting for him, something he can say to his partner with confidence. But in that case, why did he procrastinate on all this then? Maybe somewhere in his heart, he always believed that his time with you would go on for forever.

 

Title card pops up, and this chapter is called Valentine's Street Fight.

 

The story then tunes in at Ikebukuro in front of Ikebukuro Station, where various stores are lined up and myriad people are out and about. There by the western station entrance is the theater/entryway to the underground fight ring, and in the backstreets of Ikebukuro are the alleyways where street fights are held. This is the day that the Valentine Colosseo that Claude is organizing is to be held, and all Claude has told anyone regarding its location is Ikebukuro. With no clear directions, everyone hoping to participate is wandering around until the clock hits starting time. Over in Eastern Ikebukuro Sanchome is a super tall building, the building that used to be known as the tallest one in Tokyo. This building can still be seen today from far away, looking down on the city. It's over there where you and Kengo are walking around, wandering aimlessly waiting for some sort of sign to show up.

 

Kengo starts talking about how much he ate at the restaurant the two of you were at, saying that Ryouta's recommendation was on point. But still he's frustrated at the lack of communication as he notes some other people wandering around looking lost about the event as well. You note that it's almost time for the event to start and that there's a ton of people joining in, or you can comment on how slow lunch was. C prompts an extra line where Kengo comments on how carefree you are and says that you might need more of a sense of danger.

 

Anyways, Kengo complains about how Claude and Snow haven't called you guys and how the other Berserkers are keeping mum. He's so bored that he's getting restless, so he decides he may as well boot up the app and look for a quick matchup to blow off some steam. You call him rash but sympathize, or you tell him he can't do something before the appointed time starts. Kengo isn't really interested in listening and complains that someone has to be around who's thinking the same thing, and he accesses the expansion function that can be used only in the Berserkers territory for the event to look at the public message set by someone he found. Said message is "I will gladly take on any challengers! That! Is my! YOUTH!!!"

 

Kengo is baffled at this message and ignores the youth bit to say this guy seems fickle to him somehow. You comment that that reminds you of someone, wonder if this person is nearby, and say you'd like to see them but aren't interested in battling at the moment. The two of you then continue walking down the street at try searching for this person. You two eventually find Fergus, who is looking at a certain place with a strange expression on his face. Kengo reacts with surprise at seeing him. Fergus does so as well when he catches onto you two looking at him, then takes big strides walking over as he raises his hand.

 

Fergus greets the two of you good morning and shoehorning a gratuitous 'youth!' before asking if you guys are looking for him. Kengo comments on how odd a greeting this is, then points out that it's midday as he asks if Fergus is in show biz. Fergus just laughs it off and says that his greeting for the springtime of youth is always 'good morning.' You can say good night at any time, but this is the only time you can say good morning! Kengo is further baffled by Fergus, and you start saying this impression reminds you of someone, though in the complete opposite way as the game flashes Wakan Tanka's silhouette behind Fergus.

 

Fergus pushes on ahead to say that he wanted to see you guys in this life and sighs about how glad he is that this happened on Valentines. Such is youth! Kengo asks Fergus if he's talking about him or you when he says he wanted to see you guys, so Fergus answers he means both as he reveals he knows Kengo as a former Ranker. He remembers passing by him one time and says he could never forget his roaring fists of thunder. Kengo is slightly flattered and thanks him despite not really knowing what he's talking about.

 

Fergus then turns to you, looking you over with a sincere light in his eyes as if visually confirming who you are. He brings up meeting eyes with you in the underground arena, though he's seen you before then too. Specifically he means the kendo dojo where he heard your name from Shuuichi and Moritaka as he calls you by your (full if applicable) name. Then he smiles a smile filled with wild instincts. You comment on his direct eyes or his wild personality slightly taken aback, or you say he's so your type. C gets an extra line where Fergus laughs and suggests the two of you sword fight right away.

 

In any case, Kengo takes issue with Fergus acting so chummy with you so suddenly. Fergus is surprised and asks what Kengo means by suddenly since this is how he always is, man. The signs of a goodbye are always hanging above his head, so he argues that now is always the best time to convey what's important to you in a straightforward manner. Sure it could fail to work out, but what kind of youth are you having if you don't act on your feelings and passions? Kengo is thrown off by this, and Fergus decides it's time to reintroduce himself as mac Roich and says he's a kendo student going to Bukuro Academy. Call him Mac or Mac Roich (or with or without an honorific), either is fine. Nice to meet youth! You politely greet Fergus back or mirror his 'nice to meet youth' back at him. C shocks Kengo into telling you not to start doing that too so fast.

 

Either way Fergus approves of your attitude. Kengo changes the subject to ask Fergus why he was staring at the sky. Fergus answers that he was actually looking at the building and thinking about how there are buildings that tall around. Kengo doesn't think it's that interesting, but he grants that it's still big for Tokyo. Fergus admits to finding one other thing about that building of interest. Claude hasn't said anything about it yet, but Fergus has heard that the roof of that building is going to be used as part of the event at some point. He couldn't stop himself from wondering as to why that was, and he says he's feeling a premonition about something occurring there. Just like...something that he cuts off on as some thought occurs to him in sad surprise as he starts looking at you.

 

You try to ask Fergus what's wrong, and he starts to answer when some beeping cuts him off. Kengo asks what's going on for his phone, yours, and probably Fergus's to start going off like that. Fergus points out that everyone else who seems to be participating also has there phones ringing, and when you look you realize you're getting a video call. Kengo and Fergus exclaim that it's coming from Claude.

 

Claude starts his phone call by asking if everyone participating in the event can hear him, then thanks everyone for joining. He starts off with the formalities by giving his name and stating his position as Bukuro Academy headmaster as well as the organizer and head of the Ikebukuro Valentine event as he laughs. Kengo is unimpressed at Claude for rattling off his titles like so, and Claude explains that this video call is only receivable in Ikebukuro through the app's expansion function. If you leave the city, you can't participate in the event, so be careful about that.

 

Claude starts instructing everyone to take a picture of their unique chocolates through the app, which will register it to the app and act as everyone's formal entrance to participation. The rules of the event are simple: be the last one still hanging onto your chocolate. It's fine if you give it to your special someone somewhere along the way, but Claude promises that there'll be a reward if you hold off on that for a bit. Also, try not to let your chocolate get stolen. You either comment on how complicated this is, say it'll be fine to just take a picture of your chocolate, or prompt Kengo and Fergus to say cheese. In A and B, Kengo handles picture taking easily enough while Fergus has big fat fingers and struggles to accomplish the same as he accidentally reverses his camera feed. In C, Kengo and Fergus smile for the camera before Kengo tells you to stop since it's the chocolates you guys should be taking a pic of.

 

Snow steps up to explain the first stage of the event, though he notes that using Ikebukuro Station as the center point, more people than expected have entered the event. You take note of this after a moment, and Snow says that normally everyone would be instructed on where to go from here. Problem is, there isn't enough to have everyone at the designated location. A bunch of randos start getting a bad feeling about this before Snow apologizes for the abrupt change as he declares it's time for the Chocolate Stealing Rank Battle. Time for Stage 1, the Valentine Street Fight! All participants react with shock at this.

 

Snow sighs over how even all their space for the underground arena can't hope to fit everyone down there. Claude says he's not looking down on Valentine's, but he comments on how crazy it can be. You wonder how many people actually showed up for this or express amazement at Valentine's. But anyways, Snow tells everyone that the app's extended map function shows the position of everyone participating, which he explains is linked to everyone's chocolate. If you lose yours, you stop showing up on the map. If you take pictures of someone else's chocolate and collect it, you'll get points. These points are important for this stage, and you can check the info board at any time.

 

Kengo asks if this is just a fight for all those chocolates, then turns to you and says this is easy to understand. Snow continues explaining that there's no restrictions as to how you get those chocolates. You can talk people into giving you their chocolates, you can fight people for them, whatever. He does ask that people treat these chocolates with care since these were meant to be given to someone important to their owners, and Fergus nods at this as he agrees. Snow mentions that the chocolate is the most important part here, so if you happen to lose a fight it's not necessarily binding. Running is always an option, but for the record a chocolate from a nonparticipant does not count for this event. No collateral damage, even if this is the city where people just accept that street fights happen here. Claude then wishes everyone good luck as he announces the beginning of the event and ends the call.

 

Once the video call ends, fireworks are set off despite it being midday. Fergus says this could be either a solo setup or a team setup if you want, and he approves of it being different from a kendo match. Fergus then asks if you two are interested in teaming up with him, but he gets cut off by the app announcing that a battle area is forming. You are surprised by this and asks who's starting it, so Kengo apologizes and says he wants to fight Fergus. He asks if Fergus feels the same way, and Fergus stands there in silent surprise.

 

Kengo talks about being interested in Fergus's battle skills ever since he met him. Fergus laughs at this and says he'll face him anytime he wants if he wants to cross swords with him. It doesn't matter to him if it's with a war buddy friend or with a lover or mistress, and he says his way of life is to draw his sword first and think later. You sigh and say you expected as much and ask for them not to beat on each other too hard. Fergus then asks if you two will both be fighting him, which he's fine with. Kengo however challenges the two of you to come at him instead, which you react to with shock and surprise.

 

Fergus is intrigued by this suggestion, and Kengo says he's not tempted by his offer or anything, but this time he has something he needs to find an answer to. He intends to be the strongest person here in Tokyo, so he ought to be able to take you two on at once at least. Plus he lost to you once as he refers to you as partner first before referring to you by name. He wants to find the answer to that one vague feeling he got from back then, and he challenges you two to battle as the episode battle begins.

 

Valentine Colosseo Prologue Part 2

We pick up from before as Kengo loudly asks in shock what the hell is going on with the underground arena. The place is totally decorated for Valentine's, which you note in amazement and say it's going in hard with the holiday season. Kengo is baffled that the fighting arena he used to go to has turned out like this now, though he collects his thoughts after a moment to say you guys should go ask Claude for an explanation for all this. You decide to take the moment to ask Kengo about his new clothes, comment he looks good in them, or coo over them and say you're crushing on him again. B and C get an extra line where Kengo is surprised but pleased by your reaction. But either way Kengo answers he figures he should psych himself up for a bit, though it might look weird to you. Then he says this isn't the time to be talking about that and urges you to come with him.

 

Over at Claude's office, Claude is having a good time as he welcomes you guys and tells Kengo he could hear him yelling from there. Kengo is unamused as he asks Claude what the big idea is and says he thought Claude suddenly joined the circus or something. Snow thanks you guys for coming despite the cold outside and says he's made some hot chocolate. There's marshmallows if you want, and he suggests you drink it before it cools. You accept it and enjoy warming up with the drink as you thank Snow, and you can even say it's making your nose run.

 

Kengo also accepts his hot chocolate and says it's warming him up from within. Snow mentions he added some spice to the hot chocolate and is happy if you guys like it. Claude decides to move the conversation along and asks what you guys thought when you looked at Ikebukuro today. Kengo is thrown off for a bit and answers that it looks different now as opposed to the time it was called the City of Violence. The streets are full of Valentine's decorations now, and everything's changed.

 

Claude agrees with that point and notes that Kengo has changed too. Kengo is surprised by this comment, so Claude points out that back when Kengo was one of the Rankers he only believed in power and tried to win all by himself. Now he's got himself a partner to go forward with, and what do you call that if it isn't change? Kengo looks annoyed by this but doesn't say anything in response, and Claude adds that he's not disapproving of this. He didn't hate how Kengo was back then either though. To change is to reject the choice to not change, a choice between one of two options. Claude's about to say more on that before he decides there isn't a point to talking about it and asks you guys to forget it, then asks what you think of the place.

 

You answer that the public order seems to have gotten better and that there's a lot more normal people around. Very Valentine's. Claude says that's right as Ikebukuro is going through change that has never happened before, and the city has plans to get more gorgeous than the street fights that used to happen. The underground arena is also opening up for a public event, which Claude plans to set up as a gateway to success for new unseen powerful warriors. That is his main goal, and Claude says he's come to think that it's fine for Ikebukuro to change too. All roads lead to Ikebukuro, just like a certain emperor outside the walls had set up their kingdom once upon a time in a land far far away.

 

Claude sits back down pumping his fist and breathing hard, and Snow wastes no time in passing Claude some water. You comment that Claude has made his point and note that Snow's attention to detail is impeccable. Kengo decides to not care about Claude's principles and position for the moment and asks why he asked the two of you to come see him. Claude explains that he's come up with an additional plan to make things even livelier, and he proclaims the name of the plan to be the Valentine Colosseo.

 

You react in surprise to Claude announcing this event and ask if he's sponsoring it. Claude talks about how the origins of Valentine's comes from the ancient Roman empire. It's how he got the idea for the event's name, and he brags about how it just doesn't express the greatness of it all well enough with just words. But anyways he wants you two to join in on it, and he guarantees it'll be a once in a lifetime experience. Kengo looks unsure about the suggestion, so he asks Claude for further details.

Claude: No 

Kengo: WHY

 

Claude explains that his refusal to explain the details is because it'd make things not fun and that surprises are necessary. Kengo is pissed about this and accuse Claude of enjoying things, and you say that Claude is always hiding things, agree that surprises are important, or say you already had an idea of what'd be happening when you heard the word colosseo. Loud cheering reaches the office at this point, which draws Kengo's attention as he asks about that. Claude looks at the time and figures That Strong One is showing his stuff now. He ends the event conversation here, then commands Snow to walk you guys out. You guys might even get to see what's up if you go now. Snow acknowledges the order, and Claude says he'll be waiting for a favorable response.

 

Out in the hallway, Kengo complains to himself about how things really changed that much and that all he cares about when it comes to Valentine's is the chocolate. But when he thinks on it some more, he admits that it's true that he's changed. You ask Kengo if something is wrong, but Kengo brushes it off as nothing. You decide not to ask into it and turn to Snow and ask if he can tell you anything about the event.

 

Snow apologizes and says he isn't allowed to talk about what'll be happening for the event. All he can say is that Claude's intentions aren't to mess with you guys. Kengo demands an explanation and says it's too unreasonable to be holding out like this between allies. Snow presents a pamphlet for the event and suggests you guys take a look at it when you go home, shocking Kengo and prompting him to say he should have brought this out earlier. Snow mentions that a lot of strong people are expected to participate, and he promises that it'll be a once in a lifetime experience like Claude said. Kengo asks if that means he can fight some powerful people if he's saying all that, but Snow plays coy as he declines to answer that, then prompts you guys to look at the new strong warrior people have been cheering over.

 

Over at the arena, said fighter is using his hefty sword to break through his opponent's defenses, which intrigues Kengo. He comments that the dude is definitely strong based on his footwork and notes that his dual wielding skills is good enough that his swords seem to be moving as one. Snow talks about this fighter being promoted to a Ranker recently and is a dual greatsword fighter. He's about to say his name when you recognize Fergus out in the ring. Snow is mildly surprised you know him already and says strong people are connected to one another. He also says that Fergus is expected to join the Colosseo and suggests that in itself would make joining in worthwhile to Kengo.

 

Kengo doesn't give an answer, and Snow says the battle looks like it's over now, so he'll take you guys to the exit. Midway through that thought he notices that you seem preoccupied, so he asks you what's wrong. You say you exchanged glances again with Fergus and ask if he's looking at you. It's noted that he's definitely looking at you amidst all the cheering that shakes the arena.

 

Outside in Ikebukuro, Kengo complains about wanting to fight him and says he knows he got pulled in, but he suggests going back to the dorm to look at the pamphlet. He also comments on how crowded the city is and says the place really did change. You agree with the point and say it changed a lot since your first visit to the place as now people look like they're having fun, and there are even some surprising people in the crowds.

 

A bunch of people walk by, and among then turns out to be Seth. He freezes upon noticing you, and he's noted to be carrying a huge bag full of chocolate bars that takes both his hands to carry. You try to talk to Seth as you comment on running into someone unexpected and the load of items he's carrying. Seth gets mad in his surprise as he asks why you're here since he specifically came all this way to avoid being seen by anyone he knew. He quickly denies that he came to buy chocolate or that he's come to get ingredients for chocolate making. He's the number one most famous gangster of Roppongi man, he's a total badass d'ya hear!? Seth goes quiet for a moment before cussing Valentine's out and calls it stupid. He proceeds to turn around and stalk off in a huff, only to immediately bump into someone, apologize for doing so, and pick up the things that fell over. Kengo is baffled by the behavior and asks you what's up. You shrug, say you didn't have time to comment, then suggest leaving him alone.

 

Time jumps ahead to the point after you and Kengo get back to Shinjuku and have told the others about your day. Ryouta takes an interest as he welcomes you back. He agrees that Ikebukuro has changed and says that in his younger school years he was too afraid to get close to the place. He then pours the two of you some tea before asking if the two of you will join in on Claude's event or not. Kengo says he'll decide after reading the pamphlet, and by reading the pamphlet he means throwing the thing at Shirou and making him read it to him instead.

 

Shirou is irritated as he questions the point of reading it when it'd be you and Kengo participating and not him. Ryouta points out that Shirou is still looking at it even if he's saying that and calls him a nice guy, so Shirou insists he's only doing that because that's how he is. Kengo prompts Shirou to get on with it and says that's what his glasses are for. Shirou fires back that he wears glasses because his eyesight is bad. But anyways, Shirou says he's looked it over now and starts to talk about the event when he makes a dramatic pause. Kengo and Ryouta prompt him to go on, so Shirou reveals that the pamphlet says precisely jack all on the colosseo.

 

You react in shock and disbelief about this, as does Kengo who comments on how tight lipped the Berserkers are no matter what event they're in. Ryouta asks what is written in the pamphlet then since it's fairly big as they go. Shirou answers that the thing is almost all about Claude, and it goes far enough to include an interview of him with a picture. Ryouta then notices that the thing also includes a foldout poster and asks if this is supposed to be a fanbook or something.

 

You ask Shirou what's the remaining part of the pamphlet about. He tells you that it barely mentions the qualifications for participation and that the event will take place in Ikebukuro, but he's surprised when he looks closer. Kengo is glad the pamphlet says something about the event, then asks Shirou whereabouts in Ikebukuro it's supposed to happen. After looking a bit more, Shirou says Ikebukuro is all it says in terms of location. Kengo is baffled at this given how huge Ikebukuro is alone. You express your own disbelief, say Claude's being too confidential about this, and are surprised he got anyone to join like this.

 

Shirou says that since this is Claude you guys are talking about, there must be some sort of plan to it all. He then sees that there's a requirement to join in too and reads it aloud, and this condition is that every participant must bring a special chocolate meant for one person they'd give it to. Kengo is shocked speechless at this, and Ryouta halfheartedly comments about how it's a Valentine's event so chocolate would be expected. Everyone save for one person nods. Kengo however quietly grumbles to himself at Claude about this.

 

That night, a young man sees a dream he's always been seeing once again. There, underneath the shining sun is the the beloved somebody he cares for standing in water. The man thinks to himself, "oh, this dream again." This is the dream where all he can do is look on affectionately. A sense of certainty spreads within him, saying that if he reached out he would gain something and lose something. Fergus mac Roich's heart quivers, on the verge of tearing apart. But then he suddenly realizes something and asks why he keeps seeing this dream. Why this unclear, indistinct vision? Why this unforgettable beauty of a person he doesn't remember?

 

Fergus then abruptly wakes up in his room, and as he looks up at a familiar ceiling he comes to a certain conclusion. He talks to himself about the same repeating dream and the vague, beloved someone that he sees, and he figures that this must be a hunch about love before deciding it must be a prophecy instead. Fergus then asks himself why he seems to instinctually choose not to reach out for them. He asks what it is that awaits him, what is it that is going to happen to himself. Fergus then loudly shouts out asking for somebody out there to tell what sort of youth is waiting in the future for him. After the other dorm students complain about him waking them up, Fergus tries to go back to bed. He finds himself unable to go back to sleep though, and he asks if this excitement is also a part of youth. The episode then ends by saying the Ikebukuro Valentine's event is about to begin soon. 

Valentine Colosseo Prologue Part 1

Once upon a time, there was a man who stood in the forest. He was a great old man, and he stood with nothing but his swords on him near a spring in the woods as the sunlight streamed between the thick foliage. Before his eyes stood the one he loved, who he held both camaraderie and hostility for. He remembers how he had chosen his love for this person, and at the same time he had lost an important friend over this. He used to believe he could always obtain anything, and so he spent his youth running wild.

 

Eventually the man was confronted with a choice between two different options and could only choose one of them...so he picked love. Perhaps that time was the time his youth had come to an end. With his youth at its end, he grew older in that world. Such is the unchangeable logic of the world. Eventually his lover put on their clothes, and once they were done they left the forest as though nothing had happened. The man just watched in silence, never moving a step or uttering a word as his eyes swayed and shuddered. And then, his life came to a sudden swift end as something came flying at his chest.

 

The man fell over with a splash, then slowly sank into the water. The weight of his beloved sword carried him to the depths of the spring. He felt no pain, no suffering. His consciousness drew far away. The handles of his beloved swords returned to the lake, and his body sunk towards the bottom of the pool. But it was then that the trails of the sword's swings drew a rainbow, which seemed to invite him somewhere. The man's body returned to its youthful prime, an event that 'could not be in this world.' The man paid a price to fit himself with these circumstances, then flew out and away to Tokyo...

 

Title card pops up, and this chapter is just called Prologue.

 

Things then tune in at Ikebukuro, Toshima Ward. There stands a certain school known as Bukuro Academy. It is midwinter where the leaves have fallen off the trees, and while school is out for the day, the enthusiasm of students is heating up in a certain part of the place. Kendo matches are being conducted in the dojo inside the school, and as cold as the air is around the place, the atmosphere within is tense with loud yells cutting through. Moritaka strikes with a loud call, and the referee calls the match in Moritaka's victory. It was a quick match where he and his opponent had looked at each other for a moment before Moritaka charged in with a swing. When the judgement call echoes out, both contestants put their shinais away and exchange polite formalities. Moritaka's opponent walks off, frustration clear upon their face. You then say Moritaka was amazing to end it so quick, or you grumble that you could pull that off too. C gets an extra line where Shuuichi laughs and asks if this is competitiveness on your part.

 

Anyways, Shuuichi asks what you thought about how Moritaka looked out there, asking if he looks any different to you now. He talks about how Moritaka's opponent was their strongest competitor, but clearly they weren't a match for Moritaka. Their skill levels is the same, but their experience levels were different, which Shuuichi attributes to what Moritaka's been doing in your guild. Having said that, Shuuichi also notes that Moritaka has been training besides dojo practice and guild work too as he laughs about how harsh Moritaka's fatherly master in Kabukicho is. You take note of Shuuichi's presence and note that he's in the same field as him, or you say he looks good in his kendo outfit. C gets an extra line where Shuuichi laughs some more about being used to compliments from people not his brother, but he politely accepts the comment.

 

Either way, Shuuichi mentions being the captain of his kendo team. He's in a high level school that preps for college though, so he doesn't put that much energy into things. But for the third year students like himself this would be their last match, and even if this is a practice match, there are plenty of people who care deeply about it. You ask if that's how it is or comment that you can understand it a bit. Shuuichi notes that you guys are having your graduations the next go around after him, and he says your feelings might change when it gets closer. Shuuichi then shrugs and puts his personal feelings aside as he says he should consider his kouhais as team captain. He then excuses himself as he says he should wrap things up.

 

Some time later, Moritaka runs up to talk to you, apologizing for the wait after he finished with the polite customs at the end of his match. You welcome him back and say he did great or did alright out there. Moritaka says he was feeling better than usual out there, which he attributes to your cheering for him. He noticed that you and Shuuichi were talking earlier, so he asks what you two were talking about. Shuuichi comes over and says the two of you were looking forward to where Moritaka would be going as one of the rising stars of Tokyo high school kendo. Moritaka is shocked at the idea and downplays his abilities, saying he's still inexperienced. He still thanks Shuuichi for his comments and says he'll train even harder. Shuuichi talks about how humility and honesty are virtues, which is something he laughs about wishing he could be.

 

At that point, loud clapping erupts from elsewhere in the dojo, which draws all your attentions. You note that a match must be starting over there and comment on how much clapping there is as you wonder if someone notable is present. Shuuichi says you've got a good eye as he confirms that, then tells you that there's a tough guy over there who's also a rising star in the world of high school kendo like Moritaka is. At his prompting, you look over to see a large framed Transient dressed in a kendo outfit, and Fergus attacks with a loud yell. The match goes by so fast that the referee is surprised as he announces that Fergus mac Roich of Bukuro Academy has won the bout. Fergus yells about focusing on youth and thanks his opponent for the match. You comment on how strong his attack was, be surprised he's fighting by dual wielding, or be curious about his mentioning of a focus on youth.

 

Moritaka mentions Fergus is a student of Bukuro Academy, and that his wild strength is enough to knock his opponent's shinai out of their hands. Shuuichi mentions that Fergus is Bukuro's kendo team captain as well as a second year and notes he's popular with everyone, not just his sports team. Shuuichi wishes he could be like that too. You can either say Shuuichi is unpopular, say he looks like he's making a lot of effort, or stay quiet. A has an extra line where Shuuichi laughs it off as a mean comment and says he plans on smoothing things out on the surface at least. B has a different extra line where Shuuichi is quiet for a second before mentioning he's never thought training was harsh. Being able to do things just as planned what he's good at.

 

Anyways, Shuuichi notes that that's all the matches done with for the day, and he considers sending the next captain to be to stand on ceremony for the end of matchup meeting so he can slack off. Shuuichi then says he's going to change clothes and asks to meet Moritaka outside after everything is done. Moritaka acknowledges the request, then tells you he'll be back soon. You either tell Moritaka you'll see him later or say he looked cool, and either way he thanks you.

 

Time passes as you head over to the lobby of the Tokyo Metropolitan Theater which is the school front for Bukuro Academy. Duo is there and smiles as he comments that you guys have come back, and Garm is with him as he welcomes you specifically back. Shuuichi bowls past him and starts laying it on thick about how much he loves his irreplaceable little bro, then asks if he was cold, if he was attacked by strangers, or lonely without his oNiI-cHaN. Duo is unimpressed by all this and says things were all peace and quiet until it suddenly got uncomfortably muggy now. Shuuichi laughs it off and puts it down to Duo being shy and saying it's going to make him cry. Shuuichi then turns to Garm and thanks him for agreeing to look after Duo all of a sudden.

 

Garm says it's no problem and adds that he had fun being with Duo since Duo is a good boy and the nap they had curled up together felt real nice. Shuuichi is shocked upon hearing that they did this and is jealous Garm got to do this since he barely ever gets to do it himself. Garm gets freaked out by this reaction, and you either ask Shuuichi to calm down, ask Duo if he's been waiting for a while, or thank Garm for watching Duo. In A, Shuuichi says it's fine and that he's always calm. He just loves his brother so much he can't stand it. In B, Duo says he had Garm with him, and if he were alone he could just boot up some game, so he's fine. In C, Garm cheers about you praising him, then says all he did was play, nap, and eat snacks with Duo.

 

In any case, Garm remembers to give you some chocolate, saying he brought a ton of them with him. He also gives one to Shuuichi and wishes him a Happy Valentine's. You thank Garm for the chocolate and note its unusual shape, then talk about how it's that time of the year again. Garm barks and says he asked Snow to make them for him, and that the chocolates are in the same shape as his paw pads. Duo volunteers that Garm gave him some too, then thanks Garm and says they were great. Garm laughs and says he still has a lot, so he'll give some to Moritaka later. He's so excited that he starts swinging his bag of chocolates around, which Duo tries to warn him to stop.

 

A chocolate piece falls out, and someone passing by picks it up to give it back to Garm. This turns out to be Kyuuma, who is surprised to see you and comments on the coincidence of seeing you at some other school. You're surprised to see him too and ask what brings him here. Shuuichi notes that you know him and jokes about you having no standards. Kyuuma introduces himself by his full name and says he's a first year student at Yoyogi, then explains he came for a practice baseball match with Bukuro. Shuuichi thanks him for his manners and introduces himself back as he mentions he's a third year student in the senior high school part of Touto Academy. Kyuuma exchanges pleasantries with him before giving Garm his chocolate back, and Garm thanks him.

 

You ask Kyuuma how his game went and say he did well in coming for it. Kyuuma says it went great, then thanks the Shinjuku baseball team for helping them to practice. Garm asks if Kyuuma's baseball team is any good, but Kyuuma reacts by going quiet and slumping his shoulders with a pained look on his face. Garm is surprised by this response, and Kyuuma tries to brush his actions aside and says he was just a bench warmer cheering on his senpais. He wishes he could have pitched at least once, but he says this is how it always is. Then he excuses himself and abruptly walks off.

 

You comment on Kyuuma leaving and note that he didn't look happy. Garm asks you if he said something he shouldn't have as he looks worried about Kyuuma, so you either assure him it's okay, say it was an accident, or wonder about it yourself. Shuuichi says it doesn't seem like Kyuuma's being caught up in his prospects. He's got plenty of time, though he notes that saying so might not sink in.

 

You either worry about Kyuuma or call Shuuichi an unsympathetic jerk. Garm worries some more and seems ready to cry a little, and Duo expresses concern for him. Shuuichi then suggests that you guys go somewhere else before you guys get seen, only to stop in surprise. You ask Shuuichi what he means, and Shuuichi sighs and says the end of match talks must be over now. He was planning on getting out of there after meeting up with Duo.

 

The next moment, a bunch of rando students start rushing in from the kendo dojo and start mobbing Shuuichi and wishing him a Happy Valentine's. Guy A hands over some chocolate as an early graduation present. Yasha B hands hers over next and thanks him for all he's done in his three years at their school. Angel C hands a chocolate too, though more as a rival thing and says he'd better remember him and not quit while he's ahead in wins. Shuuichi laughs and thanks them, though he still says to their faces that all he cares about is his brother. You either comment on all the kendo students gathering around Shuuichi, say you should probably expect as much, or say his looks are the only good thing about him.

 

Garm barks a bit and points your attention to Moritaka, who is also mobbed by a bunch of no namers. Alchemist A says Moritaka was so cool as he gives him a chocolate. Ciramantep B compliments Moritaka on his performance today, hands him some chocolate, and warns him not to eat too much and never once speaks like a little kid. Wolf C gives Moritaka some chocolate too and begs to touch his fur. Moritaka is befuddled by all this and thanks everyone for their gifts and words, though he also attempts to get them to calm down.

 

You express amazement at all the attention Moritaka is getting and note he is famous in kendo circles. You then notice that there's a bunch of people bunching around someone else too, which turns out to be Fergus with his own crowd of groupies. Gangster Girl A gives him a chocolate with all her feelings put into it. Mermaid B gives him chocolate too, b-but it's not like she likes him or anything! Pirate C sighs over how cOOl he was out there and says he was swooning again over how strong he is. Fergus laughs and thanks everyone, then says having to worry about how much to accept is another part of youth. He then immediately declares he'll take all of them. His fans all lose their minds upon him bishie smiling.

 

You try to remember Fergus's name as you watch the proceedings, and Fergus looks over at you for a moment before carrying on with what he was doing. You wonder if he really was looking at you and dismiss it as your imagination, though you're still unsure. Duo comments that he's getting a feeling that a storm is coming, though he corrects this to say a premonition instead as he puts a piece of chocolate up to his mouth. It seems like it might be a bit longer before they can go home, and the episode half ends by fast forwarding a few days to say you and Kengo got a shocking view of things of Ikebukuro when Claude calls you two over.

 

 

Live A Hero Gorou's CQ: Ties to the World of Sobriety

In the past on a certain planet, a city and its surrounding area was devastated by the appearance of a gigantic Kaibutsu. What then became a mountain of rubble was filled with the groans and cries of the people who lived there. Among the wreckage is the ruins of a certain house, and one man is digging hard through the damage and shouting with no regards to himself. Gorou is yelling for anyone there to respond to him, desperate to know that they still live. He claims fault for building a house that could be wrecked like this, so he begs for them to be okay.

 

Eventually Gorou manages to find a small arm and hand poking out with a similar build to his own, only faintly moving. Gorou recognizes this hand as belonging to his son Kame, and he tells him he's coming to dig him out from all the heavy rubble, but this determination soon crumbles into grieved sobbing. Gorou cries out to the sky as great big tears stream from his face, and he holds this just crushed arm to himself. This was the day that man's happy life came crashing down and led to the beginning of his drink-stained days. And this was the day that spurred the man to become a hero.

 

We then tune to the present from our end as you make your way to Procy's bar, commenting on how strong the wind is today. The layout of the buildings makes the wind force annoyingly higher, and you push your way through it as you push through to the basement door that leads to the pub. Once inside, Gomeisa welcomes you and informs you that you've got some trash on your shoulder. You greet Gomeisa good afternoon before noticing the bit of rubbish, and Gomeisa comments on how strong the wind is to blow in like that even though the business is beneath the soil. Procy insists that Gomeisa refer to the place as being underground instead of under the soil since that sounds like bad juju, and he's noted to be in a bad mood for some reason. He gives a perfunctory welcome as he asks if you're here to use the gacha do some Ether Searching before saying you've come at a good time. You either ask him what he means or ask if you're unwelcome here. B gets an extra line where Procy clarifies that it's someone else who's unwelcome.

 

Anyways, Procy points to Vodka Drunkenski out cold further down the counter and asks about him being employed by you guys before asking you to do something about him. Gorou's fuzzy ass is slumped across the counter as he snores like a lumberjack, and you react with mild disappointment as you say this was where he went off to. He had been dispatched yesterday and came all the way to Earth. Since he had already checked out of his hotel lodgings, everyone in your office thought he went back home.

 

Procy tells you that Gorou turned up last night before closing time, and he initially thought Gorou was drunk off his ass only to find him like that. Then Procy had to stay there all night. You apologize to Procy and attempt to wake Gorou up, and Gorou gets up with a start before noticing that it's you. He then gets flattered as he asks if you came looking for him because you wanted to see him. He hugs you while seeming sleepy still, reeking of booze. You either react to the smell, comment that he's still drunk, or say you're kind of happy about this. C prompts an extra line as Procy asks why you look happy and asks if you're some kind of masochist to like being hugged by drunkards.

 

Procy demands that you guys take any flirting outside, then tells Gorou it's already past closing so he should pay his tab and get out. Gorou needs a second to put that through his head before apologizing, saying the food and drink here is so good he made himself comfortable. He starts to reach for his wallet, only to react in confusion. You ask him what's wrong or get a bad feeling about this, and when you look into Gorou's wallet the thing is empty. Gorou treats this as a mildly concerning thing whereas Procy demands to know if Gorou came for drinks while broke. Gorou insists he totally had a ton of cash before he went drinking, and he remembers swinging by a bunch of different places before wondering if he made a mistake with one of the bills somewhere.

 

Procy remembers something and gets an idea as to what happened, then asks if Gorou spent all his money at That Place he complained had ripped him off. Gorou remembers about this too and mentions that they stuck stuff like special rates and extension fees onto his bill. Procy calls him a dumb lecher before saying he's pretty damn sure Gorou used up all his money over there and smacking him. Gorou tries to excuse himself saying he can't hold back from his wants and begs for forgiveness. Gomeisa is confused as he turns to ask you what That Place is like, so you can either feign ignorance, be shocked he's asking you that, or offer to tell him next time. A and B has Procy telling Gomeisa not to ask about that. C instead has Procy tell you off and demand that you not tell Gomeisa what that means. But anyways, Procy demands to know how Gorou is going to handle this since he doesn't even have a credit card on him. Gorou mumbles for a moment before he turns to you for help. You give in and say you'll pay, and you have the option to ask to put it on your tab. B gets an extra line where Procy says "nO."

 

After paying for Gorou's drinks, the two of you leave Procy's bar. The sign gets flipped to Closed as he yawns and leaves, and since you weren't able to go spin the gacha use the Ether Searcher you call up Huckle for directions. Huckle says it wouldn't be right to wake Procy back up just so you can use the thing, but since you all know each other he figures it'll sort itself out in time. For now, he tells you to take Gorou with you to your next job while he goes to file something with his agency. You awkwardly acknowledge this and can ask about the money you had to pay, and B gets an extra line where Huckle says you can be reimbursed from Gorou's pay later and considers getting Gorou's ship fare out paid now.

 

Huckle asks you to just keep at it and to let him know if anything happens. You hang up and look over to Gorou, who is taking the time to have a nice stretch. He comments on having a nice nap and how nice the weather is for working. You comment on how unconcerned he's talking about things and asks if he understands the situation he's in. Gorou apologizes and asks you to let him off the hook since he'll be helping you today. Speaking of which, he asks what kind of job you've got today while he pulls a sake bottle out of his pockets and takes the top off.

 

You are taken aback as you ask Gorou if he's really going to be drinking again before work. Gorou argues that 'before work' is the perfect time to be having a drink as he says he's the type to get better at things when he's hammered. After he takes a swig of his swill, he comments on how it's just going right to his head. You call him an alcoholic and tell yourself if he can work then it'll be fine.

 

Time passes as you explain to Gorou what the job is, and he nods and drinks the whole way through. He says he gets how he'll be helping you and the Heroic Educators out with their outdoor class, then tells you to relax and leave it to him since he's great with kids. You express doubt and say he doesn't look the part. Gorou insists it'll be totally fine, and if he's put in charge of looking after kids he can make a crying kid smile in seconds. He's taken aback when you look unconvinced and says you better not be surprised later. Gorou then starts thinking about the idea of an outdoor classroom and comments he's never really taught children before. At most, he's taught kids how to fake it with construction homework or how to hide stealing snacks. You either express concern about him teaching kids to hide things or ask more about the hiding snacks bit.

 

In A, Gorou suggests that you need to know how to tell a good lie if you want to live smartly before he laughs. In B, Gorou elaborates that you hide the food you ate underneath your rice bowl, and if you get found out you just pretend some stray cat in the neighborhood did it. You can either be surprised at how random this all sounds or say it sounds like an old school Japanese rakugo story. B2 gets an extra line where Gorou is surprised you recognize it and says he read about it in an Earth book some time ago. He wonders if him telling a story second hand has been found out and wonders if you read a lot before saying you guys can get on well. And in any case, you comment on how random Gorou is and stay worried about how he'll do. Whether he notices or not, he just keeps on swigging his booze.

 

Time passes to the point where you and Gorou turn up at the place your assignment is taking place, and the staff there seems to be running about in a panic. Toshu is also around and notices you guys have turned up, so you go to greet him. Toshu greets you back, then asks if Gorou is the hero helping out today. Gorou takes note of Toshu being in a kimono an comments on how unusual that is for Japan before saying he hopes to get along with him today. Toshu can smell the alcohol off of Gorou and is shocked he was drinking before work, so you apologize for him and say that's what Gorou's like.

 

Toshu tries to shrug it off and says Gorou isn't too far off from their standards for behavior and decides to think of this as a cultural norm for wherever Gorou is from. Gorou comments on how understanding Toshu is and says he thinks this will go well. You worry about how things will go later and doubt that things will be smooth. Anyways, Toshu informs you guys that the event might have to be suspended for the day. You ask Toshu why that is, so Toshu asks if you saw all the staff members running around before he points to the giant tent today's event is supposed to be held in. The thing has collapsed.

 

Gorou asks if the wind did that, so Toshu nods and says it wasn't able to withstand that wind earlier. It was like this when he turned up this morning. Toshu says the iron pillar has been crushed too, and the staff has said it can't support the tent in that state. You click your tongue at this unfortunate turn of events, and Gorou asks to have a look at the pillar. He looks a tad more serious as he walks over to the tent, and Toshu attempts and fails to stop him. Toshu asks what kind of person Gorou is, at which point you remember what Gorou's day job is.

 

Gorou is off looking at the iron pillar and the screw holes without screws in them. He says he gets what's happening as he asks some random staffer if there are parts for a small tent around. Rando Employee is surprised at the question but confirms this, saying they have enough for three tents that they were planning to use as waiting areas. Gorou suggests scrapping the waiting area idea and joining the tents together, then asks for some screws and wires. The staffer protests when Gorou starts rummaging through a box of stuff nearby, and Gorou says he's found plenty of the ideal parts as he smiles, holding wires, nuts, and bolts in his hand.

 

Gorou turns to ask Toshu and the staffer if he can handle things here. It might take some time, but he's sure he can fix things back to 'good enough.' Toshu is surprised at the idea of fixing the tent back up, but he does admit it was a problem when it couldn't be done. Gorou says he's got it handled and says he can do this in his sleep. He could use a help with carrying things though. Toshu turns to the staffers and nods, and Gorou asks you to help him out. You either say okay or remember that Gorou is a carpenter. In A, Gorou thanks you and says it's time to get started. In B, Gorou says he's not just some lush, he's the best carpenter ever. Then he gets ready to start, and either way he takes another sip of his sake before getting to it.

 

Time passes as Gorou works on the tent, and progress is going smoothly under his direction. He's taken the smaller tent materials and bundled them around the pillar and sometimes outright replacing parts of it, and he eventually has the thing fixed up. Gorou then tells you that the next thing to do is to put the pillar into its place, then asks you to throw him a pole so that he can use it. Once you toss Gorou the pole, he thanks you and says it's about 80% done, so he figures he'll reinforce it some more. He swings it all over his shoulder like it's nothing, and Toshu expresses amazement at how well Gorou's done up the place. You say this is Gorou's specialty and that 'good job' is underselling it. Gorou notes that the reinforcement is done, then says it's about time to fix the curtains or something.

 

Gorou takes another swig of his drink before he continues, and eventually he announces that he's done and says the tent should hold up for about a week assuming some typhoon doesn't come by to blow it down. The whole time took about half an hour to finish, and while the tent's shape has changed a bit it's been done with no issues. You express amazement at Gorou and/or say you figured he could pull this off, and Gorou laughs as he tells you to compliment him some more. Toshu compares the pillar to something he's seen in Japanese carpentry and says he's never seen it done for a tent.

 

Gorou talks about seeing construction methods that are stuck using weaker materials all around, including places outside of Japan. The methods have been calculated a lot as they take in the sturdiness of materials, and they're fine to be patterned after. It did take some time to do like he said earlier, which he can't do much about. But that aside, Gorou figures it's about time for all the kids to show up, so he suggests getting the other prep work done. He smiles as he takes a drink again, then heads over to what was going to be the waiting area. Toshu comments that Gorou isn't just a drunkard and says the universe is a big place. You agree, say it feels like a superhuman feat, or call Gorou cool.

 

Time passes as the outdoor class is held. Toshu is in the center showing some traditional martial arts, and other kids are trying to make some handmade toys. You and Gorou help by bringing in materials for the crafting class and sometimes help the kid with making the toys, so all in all it's a busy time. Gorou warns one kid not to hold a knife they way they're doing so since they could cut themselves. Then he tells them they're doing it right as they cut into the bamboo grain. Some other child asks for help on how to do it, so Gorou shows them how to even it out after hitting a node in the bamboo. He uses his skills to help them make bamboocopters, and he cheerfully gives directions surrounded by children as he sometimes sits them on his lap.

 

You comment on how popular Gorou is, say he likes kids, and note he seems to be having fun. You keep carrying a box of materials as you watch, then take notice when you kick something by your feet. The thing spins around on the ground for a moment, and you soon see it's the sake bottle Gorou was drinking out of earlier. You start to think to yourself about what it means to have that bottle over there, and when you look over to Gorou his chest pocket seems to be empty. You then think aloud about how you haven't seen Gorou drinking for a while now, and Gorou notices nothing as he continues having fun talking with the children.

 

Once the day is over, Gorou raises a cheer back at Procy's bar and says you guys did a good job today. The two of you clink glasses as you guys have a private party, and you either say he did good today or say he wasn't all talk. B gets an extra line where Gorou laughs and asks if you think better of him now. Procy walks up and asks if Gorou can pay for his drinks this time, so Gorou says of course he does as he got his paycheck today and he's all smiles. Procy leaves things at that but warns him not to drink too much since he's with someone today. Gorou nods and raises another glass as a toast.

 

Gorou chugs more booze and talks about how good it's going down, and something that's been bothering you becomes clear now. You start to talk to Gorou, and he asks you what's up. You tell him you noticed he wasn't drinking earlier when he was around the children, and he's totally surprised by this comment as he puts his glass down in embarrassment. Or takes a drink again, whichever. He laughs a little and compliments you for noticing this as he says Isaribi's never noticed despite spending a lot of time with him. You note that he really was holding back from drinking and/or ask if nobody else noticed, so Gorou confirms and says he's embarrassed if anyone does pick up on it. It's not like there's a lot of kids who like old dudes who smell like booze after all, so he decided a long time ago he wouldn't drink around children. His own kids never got near him whenever he was drinking either.

 

You ask Gorou about having children, so he sadly tells you he used to. His entire family has died. They were all crushed under the house he built when Kaibutsu attacked his home city. The grief is visible in his eyes, and you apologize for asking about this. Gorou tells you you don't need to apologize for it and says it's fine. It's old news now, and he doesn't go crazy weeping anymore whenever he remembers it. Gorou swills his drink inside his glass as he adds that he still regrets putting his family in a house that could break so easily from a monster like that. It's why he still holds onto his hammer.

 

Gorou bumps against your arm as he speaks, and you are surprised as you see a vision of a world unknown to you and a slightly younger Gorou is standing still in front of you. You wonder if this is Gorou's memory and something your powers have caused, and you watch the memory Gorou cry and shout while holding something important to himself. He keeps bowing and apologizing towards a pile of rubble, a vision of his sadness and regret over the family he couldn't protect. It's an event people could chalk up as the fault of the Kaibutsu, but Gorou takes all the blame on himself. He continues pouring out the grief he doesn't voice within himself.

 

Gorou tries talking to you, which brings you back to Procy's bar. You wipe your eyes with your sleeve, as tears have started falling all of a sudden after you saw Gorou's memory. Gorou asks you what's wrong since he noticed you were suddenly quiet and is surprised you're crying now. You claim it's nothing or say he's had it tough, and Gorou has a guess as to what's going on as he pulls you in closer to him. He asks if you were crying for his sake, then thanks you. He says you're a good person, and he apologizes for depressing you. Still, he thanks you again.

 

Gorou pats you on the head, like he's comforting a little kid. The expression on his face looks like one he might have had in days past when he looked at his own children. Gorou apologizes for bringing the mood down and suggests starting things over from the toast as he orders more drinks for the two of you. Procy notes how insistent Gorou is about this and asks if this is fine since you haven't asked for another drink yourself. Gorou says it is since he's treating you today and adds that he just decided upon that.

 

You react in shock to this, and Gorou asks that you let him pay for you. It's partly his apology for making you pay for his tab earlier that morning and partly his thanks for crying for him. He smiles, though he adds a sudden serious edge to his voice as he invites you to drink with him again, just the two of you. He starts drinking harder and harder boozes when he thinks of the past, but he feels he can hold off on that if you're with him. You either say his name in concern, agree to drink with him, or say you will he he takes it easy on the drinking. B and C gets an extra line where Gorou thanks you and says he's gotten another new thing to look forward to when he comes to Earth.

 

Gorou says he's looking forward to continuing to work with you, and he pours out some more booze with some cheer as if to brush away the gloominess. Your party continues on enjoyably as it sometimes pulls Procy, Gomeisa, or someone else into your fun. The night turns into one that ties you and Gorou closer together, and the episode ends.