Valentine Snow Fight Episode 1 Part 2 (Abridged)

Tiger Man: Mic test! Can you guys here me?
Tiger Man: Okay cool, thanks for waiting everyone! You guys ready for the Valentine Snow Fight!?
Cheerleaders War Mobs: YEEEAAAAHHHH
Tiger Man: Good answer, mis amigos! I'm your host, Tiger Man of the Warmongers! Wink! Let's get the introductions in, then get this show on the road! First off, the WARMONGERS! Representing them, Yoritomo!
Yoritomo: Hello, I have just one thing to say to everyone: do what you must, and win. That is all.
War Mobs: YES SIR!
MC: whoa

Tiger Man: SUCH PRESENCE!
Tanetomo: ...
Yasuyori: Are you cold or something, Advisor?
Tanetomo: ...no! Don't you understand how terrible it can be for your lord to order you to win?
Tiger Man: Introducing the group, the Missionaries! And a word from their representative, Jacob!
Jacob: Hello everyone. I can tell without looking that you are all filled with love, which is convenient because I cannot see anyways. Let us speak of love (with our fists)!
Angels: YEEEEAAAAHHHH
Girimekhala: Maria, is Jacob always like that?
Maria: Well...he's not that good at speaking since he's more of a physical person. Still, he's confident in his strength, and that drew a lot of members to us.
Girimekhala: O-oh. He'd get on great with the gang leader and the student prez at my old school.

Tiger Man: Wow I can feel that mic performance of love(??)! Make it an exciting game, guys! Now pay attention as I explain the one rule you need to remember: HIT THEM WITH SNOWBALLS! Comprende? Bien! Now you aren't making these snowballs yourselves. We got special snow guns of all kinds made for the event with accompanying snow tanks to fill for ammo! Hit someone for points, get hit to lose points. We got camera drones watching, so get yourselves ready and get to your starting zones!
Andvari (PA System): Testing, testing. Can you hear me? Good. Recorder, go join the Missionaries for this warm up match. Switch over at the next one. And don't forget the camera!
MC: Huh, gotta remember the goggles. Time to pick a gun.
Girimekhala: Hey, glad to have you on our side this game! I wonder if there's a snow gun my size?
MC: Hmm... / Maybe try them all? / Let's go look together
(B) Girimekhala: Good idea! There must be something that'll click!
(C) Girimekhala: Ohh, thanks! It's hard to pick with so many.

Girimekhala: Damn, they put together this many snow guns for the event? Andvari and Tezcatlipoca are the sponsors, right? Mad respect for getting this all ready. I gotta make this event a success!
MC: You're fired up! / ...why a snow fight anyway? Got a reason to make this work?
---
(A) Girimekhala: Well yeah, I really want to make this thing successful!
---
Girimekhala: Well, I can't really handle things veering off plans. I panic and trip, I skip over things I wanna say, lots of stuff. I try to make plans, but it never works out right, so...even though it hasn't, making plans became habit for me. Same as this time. I was thinking if there was something I could do for the guild until I saw the Valentine Snow Festival. Nothing I do goes right, and I didn't want to say this to anyone... Well I was looking at the site when Maria came by. Jacob heard about it, and now here we are. They helped me do something I couldn't do myself, so I want to at least make this great.
MC: Let's do it together! / ...you pushing yourself?
---
(A) Girimekhala: Thanks! Let's enjoy it all together!
(B) Girimekhala: Nah. I'm actually glad there's something I can do!
---
Girimekhala: Oops! Let's go get a snow gun already!

Later
The Missionaries and Warmongers have lined up!
Tiger Man: Got your guns? Filled your snow tanks?
Angels: YEEEAAAHHH
Tiger Man: Cool! Just point and click now! There's no winners or losers in the warm up match, but we got a special prize for the high scorer!
Bug Soldiers: YEEEAAAHHH
Tiger Man: Time to do the countdown! 10 seconds!
Tiger Man: 5!
Tiger Man: 4!
Tiger Man: 3!
Tiger Man: 2!
Tiger Man: 1!
Tiger Man: GO GO GO
MC: Meh, here we go / NO MERCY / EAT SNOW
BATTLE START (more happens after)

Tiger Man: GAME SET!
MC: finally it's over / wow! / I STILL NEED TO SHOOT PEOPLE
Jacob: Good job, MC. I couldn't see, but I could tell. This was more intense than I thought. Next time I will graze through the snowballs and slip in for a straight punch!
Shinya: J-Jacob, please calm down. Things have only just started.
Girimekhala: Yeah, there's two more rounds after this...
Jacob: Thank you, but there is no need for concern over me. This is far less taxing than the days and nights in the past where I would do nothing but speak of love with my fists.
MC: I have to go against you...? / Had fun, Shinya? / How's your gun, Girimekhala?
(A) Jacob: Oh! Are you looking forward to talking with me later? We shall soon get close and personal, fists filled with love slugging each other! I am so grateful for this rare opportunity.
(B) Shinya: I have, but Cupid's enjoyed things even more. He got to cut loose after having to hold back all the time. I'm actually bad at direct competition, but since I'm here I'll try my best.
(C) Girimekhala: Mad respect for your work out there! I tried too, but I kept tripping... I spent like half the time buried in the snow.

Tiger Man: Results time, amigos! First, an announcement from the Warmongers side! Their MVP is...him!
Tanetomo: ...me? Was everyone taking this too lightly since it was a game?
Yasuyori: ...I watched you mow people down with your snow gun as an ally and...
Tanetomo: did you say something?
Yasuyori: N-no! Congratulations, Advisor!
Tiger Man: H-haha. Well good luck in the main battles! Now on to the Missionaries! Their MVP is...these two!
Shinya and Girimekhala: what
Girimekhala: This can't be right!
Shinya: M-me too!? I know Cupid went off, but I...
Azazel: Oh no, you two clearly did well.
MC: W-where were you watching? / Were you watching the whole time? / Explain!

Azazel: Heh. I can't say everything, but I'll tell you what I saw. Shinya's hit rate is leagues above everyone else. You clearly are an archer, aren't you? You and Cupid have scored plenty of points between you two. Girimekhala meanwhile was an ambusher, hiding in the snow and keeping people from scoring off you.
Girimekhala: But I just tripped into the snow...can I actually be happy about this?
Shinya: My hit rate? ...maybe people just didn't get out of the way?
Tiger Man: I-I'm getting a little down at the cold reception to the pow-wow, amigo. But anyways, come tell us about our fabulous prize, boss!
Tezcatlipoca: HAHAHA! Literally everybody shot me! I saw it coming but it still makes me sad! Oh right, the prize. Here. Special squad captain uniforms from the Crafters! Wear these in the real matches, and you'll be named captains. Meaning you'll be team leaders and worth so many more points! What kind of tactics will you use with your status? I can't wait to see what terrible ideas you'll use!
Tiger Man: Thanks boss! Okay guys, put them on!

Shinya, Girimekhala, and Tanetomo put on their stupidly bright snow combat outfits. And Jacob and Yoritomo too for some reason.
Tanetomo: It fits well enough I suppose. Fine for a war game.
Yoritomo: ...not bad. I'm not happy this declares my status as a leader though.
Girimekhala: Is it really okay for me to have this...?
Shinya: I don't know if I should have this, but it should make a good story to tell when I get back.
Jacob: So I'll be shot at more with this on. How exciting.
Tiger Man: Have you guys memorized who the leads are!? Make the real games a smash hit!
Players: YEEEAAAHHH
Tiger Man: Time to strategize people! 30 minutes to have your pregame meetings!
MC: Later guys! / No holding back!
Girimekhala: Oh right you're on that side now. I'm sad now...but this is for the event, so let's have fun!
Shinya: ...right. Let's all do our best.
Jacob: Come at me with all you have, MC. Up close and personal is where the love is.

Later
MC: The Warmongers are supposed to be around here...
Tanetomo: Oh, MC. What a shame we weren't in the same place earlier so you could admire my cuteness.
MC: I can just do that as an ally now / R-right / I-I guess...?
(A) Tanetomo: I'm glad you know who is cute. If only some people in the guild were like you that way.
(B) Tanetomo: I see you thinking there. Please, share with us. We're friends, aren't we? Come, admire me.
(C) Tanetomo: ...oh, that's sad. And I tried so hard to look for you. I can't believe you don't know what should come next.

Tanetomo: That's enough of a greeting. I've heard you're joining us...you don't see certain people here? Well we're usually busy at this time of year. There's one training alone in the mountains, one off making rounds with his fan club, and one who says going outside in itself is a problem. Everyone besides them usually comes for a snow field drill...but this year SOMEONE used up all our budget to set this event up so now we had to come here. Still, our lord bade us to bring victory, so you shouldn't hold back even if you know the other side. We should get started soon...where is milord anyway? You stay, I will go look.
Yasuyori: Hello MC! Long time no see!
Shennong: Hey Problem Child, it's been a while. Feeling sick?
MC: Wow, you're both here! / Doctor, check up please! / Yasuyori, nice to see you again!
(A) Shennong: Haha, the generals dragged us in.
Yasuyori: As the good doctor says. The advisor was...very displeased when he heard about the event.
Shennong: We should at least enjoy the resort while we're here.
Yasuyori: I can't say this in front of the advisor...but having worthy opponents will good stimulation.
(B) Shennong: That's the first thing you say to me? You shouldn't tease adults like that. Look, see how easy it is for me to catch you.
(C) Yasuyori: I'm more excited than usual here on the snowy peaks. Uh, not like I enjoy snow or anything! P-please stop looking at me like that!

Shennong: Say, where's our advisor? We don't have that long to plan.
Yasuyori: He was just here a second ago, so I hope it's nothing bothersome...
Shennong: Oh wait look, there he is.
Tanetomo and Yoritomo walk over.
Tanetomo: Thank you for waiting everyone. Time to start our strategy briefing.
MC: Wow, a real military briefing! I am inordinately excited about this!
Yoritomo: (stares) ...oh, so you are here. Well I was informed of such...
Yoritomo: Now onto the briefing: I have no instructions. Do as you will.
Yasuyori and Shennong: ?
MC: ??
Tanetomo: ?!?!?!
End of Episode 

Valentine Snow Fight Episode 1 Part 1 (Abridged)

Tezcatlipoca: BRRRROTHER!
Andvari: Hey MC, good on you for coming!
MC: BYE
Andvari: Hey wait, get back here and listen at least!
Tezcatlipoca: Nooo, don't leave me BRRRROTHER!
Andvari: Come on, I promise I'm not gonna bite.
Tezcatlipoca: With you here, this is going to be great!
Andvari: ...you want me to get on with it, don't ya?
MC: Fine I guess I can hear you out / this is my life now / I'm actually excited for this!

Andvari: Yep! I guess you know already, but this is my newly opened winter resort! Not that many people know about it yet though, so I planned a Valentine Snow Festival. The original plan was seasonal sweets in the hotel, but then the Warmongers called.
Tezcatlipoca: My time has come! To explain, we were going to do our usual winter military drill this time of year, but then...I GOT SICK OF IT!
MC: what???
Tezcatlipoca: I can excuse using the same plans every year, but I draw the line at an all white battlefield! There were FOUR of us with different colors each! Black, white, red, and blue! There at least needs at least two colors on the field or else I'm going to get bored! But then I heard this resort was opening near where our drills are usually held, so I called the owner to make a suggestion.
Andvari: Well I couldn't actually have them doing drills during my event, so I changed it up a bit.
Tezcatlipoca: I placed an order with the Crafters for some special equipment, and when I arrived...
Andvari: Yeah! This is the Valentine Snow Festival's main attraction event! AKA...

Andvari and Tezcatlipoca: THE VALENTINE SNOW FIGHT!
MC: what
Tezcatlipoca: BRRRROTHER! Are you tired of snow fights already?
Andvari: This ain't just any snowball fight! It's a survival game! You'll get it once you see the Crafters' new gear. Honestly I never thought I'd be collabing with the Warmongers. But whatever makes my event more exciting!
Tezcatlipoca: We will gladly offer our support if it benefits us as well. Now for the main part, BRRRROTHER!
Andvari: We want you to be the recorder.
MC: Like...the camera man? / I don't get it but okay!
(C) Andvari: What? Where's that confidence coming from? Still good that you're down for this.
Tezcatlipoca: Yes! I love how you charge ahead so recklessly, BRRRROTHER!

Andvari: We want you to film and stream the event. Prep work's all done for that. Also we want you to be in event with these on.
Tezcatlipoca: Crafters special snow goggles! Built in camera! Water resistant! Impact resistant!
Andvari: You can join either side since you know like literally everyone. They'll be open with you, so go record it all! I'll edit it all afterwards and sell it specially to the players as memorabilia! You'll be paid and have fun with the event, while I make all the money! Cool, huh?
MC: Well I WAS planning on joining in / I'll do it if you thank me personally / I'll kick everyone's asses!
(B) Andvari: What!? I CHARGE FOR THAT! I'll do it!
(C) Andvari: Raise some hell out there!

Andvari: Verbal contract, sealed! Make me my money! So the event has three rounds and I'll switch you to a different team each time.
Tezcatlipoca: Yes, you're fighting BRRRROTHER! This will be great, hahaha!
MC: You think so...? (thinks of the Warmongers) Isn't this going to be lopsided?
Tezcatlipoca: No it won't. You know how much I hate wars I'm sure to win. Also I'll be going up against that man I can't use my tricks on, so this will be a war that's worth betting my body on.
Andvari: Eh, don't think about it too much. Just have fun! There'll be an announcement when things start, so go wait in the hotel until then.
Tezcatlipoca: I am so excited, BRRRROTHER! How about we do a preliminary skirmish of sweets speed eating?
Andvari: Hold up Tez, you gotta stay.
Tezcatlipoca: Why? I passed on the construction work to the necessary people.
Andvari: Not that, there's people looking for you. You never explained things to them, did you...?
Tanetomo: Commander. Care to explain why our budget is gone and the drill is now a mere game?
Yoritomo: And those snow statues. Are you trying to provoke me with them? Because it's working.
Tezcatlipoca: Of course. I'm sure you know, but I can indeed explain all this...SURPRISE!
Yoritomo and Tanetomo: >:|
MC: Uhh...bye!

Inside
Shinya: MC? Wow, what a coincidence meeting you here.
MC: Shinya, long time no see! Wait, were you always one of the Missionaries?
Shinya: I'm glad to see you're doing alright...oh, does it seem weird for me to be here? I was originally in a different guild, but I left because of Reasons. The Missionaries have graciously allowed me to temporarily join them. There's an event today, so I wanted to improve my relations with them. There's also a lot of sweets here I wanted to use for cafe treat ideas.
MC: Wow! How is the cafe doing by the way? And your usual gang?
Shinya: Taromaiti, Kalki, and Hermes are holding the fort so I could go. It's nice how busy the cafe is this time of year, but there's a bit too many people coming to see me...

Cafe Asterism
Boy A: Shinya! Take my chocolates!
Wolf B: Take my love!
Girl C: Have my babies!
Randos: SHIIIINYAAAA
Taromaiti: Shinya's out on guild business.
Kalki: That is true. If Shinya is your only business for being here, get out and stop obstructing ours!
Hermes: Cafe's still open as usual. Eating in? Come back later? Whichever.
Randos: NOOOOO
Taromaiti: I'm so glad we let Shinya get out.
Kalki: It pains me to be away from him, but this is for his sake!
Hermes: Meh, pay me and I'll do my job. I'm glad the salary's good because I've done more kicking Shinya fans out than cafe work! Hey, how about we close for--I'm just kidding, stop looking at me like that.
Andvari's Resort
MC: oh
Shinya: Yes. It feels awkward being here when everyone else is working so hard, but we all discussed it and agreed I should do this since staying back would bother the people just wanting to eat and relax. I'll enjoy myself here so that I can go back with a smile. See you later, MC.

Later
Maria: Hello MC! It's been so long.
MC: Maria, long time no see! Big crowds!
Maria: I'm happy to see you're doing well, and I'm glad we're participating together. This was suddenly thrown together, but I'm excited for the event as one of the players.
MC: Wait, you didn't decide to join yourself?
Maria: No, we normally hand out free chocolate and do other charity things, but then someone suggested we do this. We're still doing our usual event, which is where the rest of the Missionaries are doing. Chouji, Kimun Kamui, and Gabriel are there. Everyone else chose to either go here or there.
MC: That one sounds like fun... / And yet there's still a lot of people here
(A) Maria: Hee hee. We always do it this season, so please come visit after this event finishes.
(B) Maria: Well we are the biggest guild in terms of members. We can't have everyone join in, but at least some of them can enjoy it.

Maria: Oh! Let me introduce you to the one who suggested we do this.
Girimekhala: Hey, Maria!
Maria: Oh look, it's him!
Girimekhala: It's about to start! Are you re--
Maria: Wait, don't run or you'll--
Girimekhala: (trips) AAAAAA
MC: OH NO
SLAM
Maria: Are you two okay!?
Girimekhala: Oh no, I tripped again! ...oh. Hey, are you alright!?
MC: heavy / ow / mmm...
(AB) Girimekhala: Medic!
(C) Girimekhala: Y-you're smiling!? Did you hit your head? MEDIC!

Maria: Girimekhala, calm down.
Girimekhala: Oh! S-sorry.
Maria: It's okay. You both seem unhurt, and no apparent head injuries. If you don't feel well later, I'll ask one of the medic staff to help.
Girimekhala: Okay. Crazy how you're always so calm.
Maria: I'm just slightly more used to things than most people. MC, let me introduce you. This is Girimekhala, he transferred from Umamichi.
Girimekhala: Sorry about just now! Nice to meet you, uh...
MC: I'm MC. Nice to meet you! / BIG
(C) Girimekhala: Never seen an elephant before? Well look and be amazed! I'm huge and strong!

Girimekhala: Okay, let's enjoy this thing together! Oh that reminds me, I wanted to go greet the guildmaster...
Maria: Jacob? He was here just a second ago...
Girimekhala: Really? Then I should see him soon...oh, there he is!
MC: Jacob's here too? / The guildmaster ISN'T Maria!?
---
(A) Maria: Yes, he came back the other day. We talked about the event, so he said he wanted to come.
(B) Maria: Yes, lots of people think that. I'm just a representative and Jacob is the actual guildmaster. Then again, I do almost all of the communications so it's no wonder people think that...
---
Jacob: Somebody call me? Hello Maria, Girimekhala...oh, and MC. How nice to see you again, blindness notwithstanding.
MC: Long time no see! / (shake hands) / (hug)
(A) Jacob: I can tell how full of love you are by hearing your voice.
(B) Jacob: Thank you for your consideration for my eyes. Can you sense the love I've built up over my journey through discussions (with my fists)?
(C) Jacob: Thank you for your consideration for my eyes. Your body warmth is filled with love. I'd like to cross hands and love with you someday.

Girimekhala: (stares)
Jacob: What is it, Girimekhala? I can tell you've been staring at me even though I'm blind.
Girimekhala: Oh I was just thinking about how you weren't scared of my size. But then again, you're blind. Tokyo is a big world...
Jacob: So why was I called?
Girimekhala: Oh right! Guildmaster, it's almost time so--
Jacob: You can just call me Jacob.
Girimekhala: Really? Okay, Jacob it's almost time for the event to start. Uh, should I carry you?
Jacob: Thank you, but no.
Maria: I'll go call everyone else, Girimekhala. See you later, everyone.
Girimekhala: Let's see, next is...
MC: Say, didn't you plan this event?
Girimekhala: Yeah I like planning, and I took Jacob's advice on the stuff I thought up.
Jacob: This was on the list, so I said I wanted to join in. I can feel the love already, filling snowballs with your whole heart and throwing them at people. And we'll be up against the Warmongers. My fist wants to make friends with them already!
Girimekhala: I-I don't know what that's about, but thanks to Jacob joining in, everyone's been excited.
MC: what...?

Arslan: Hahaha, calm down Jacob! We haven't even started yet.
Azazel: Heh, you're so excited yourself Arslan.
Arslan: Of course I am! It's a game, but it's a game against the Warmongers. It's not every day that happens!
Zabaniya: Their tactics would be meaningful to study.
Arslan: You're no fun. Then again you're excited in your own way, so I guess that's okay...?
MC: Arslan, you're getting into this! / Zabaniya, are you having fun? / You're in too, Azazel?
---
(A) Arslan: Oh, hello cub! You here too? This is gonna be even better!
(B) Zabaniya: Hello, MC. I'm not sure if I'm having fun, but I shall do my best.
(C) Azazel: Oh hello MC. Yes, I am admittedly somewhat interested. I bet you weren't expecting someone to make playing in the snow sound sinful now were you? Despoiling pure snow. Baring your inner thoughts. Clashing bodies. Mmm...
---
Girimekhala: Y-you guys, sorry to cut in but it's almost time!
PA System: The Valentine Snow Fight will begin shortly. All participants, please come to the ski slope.
Girimekhala: There it is! Let's go now! You too, MC!
MC: Wait, don't trip!
Girimekhala: (trips) AAAAAA
End of Episode part

Live A Hero Virtual Fest Royale Episode 2 (Abridged)

Red: OW
Green: Come at us, bros!
The opposing team challenges the party to a fight in classic Pokemon style. Cerastium takes point.
Cerastium: Shaft, I'll weaken them! Cover for me!
Shaft: Okay! Here I--
reXer: Leroy Jenkins!
Red: A pincer attack! I can't tell what they're doing!
Cerastium: W-what!? Wait, reXer, you'll hit my shield!
Toshu: Get back here! You are supposed to be behind me!
reXer: I got the front. Get back.
Toshu: Listen here, you little punk!
MC: reXer, no! / The enemy side is panicking! / LISTEN

reXer: Urk...! No, I'll do it! I have to!
reXer hesitates for a second at MC's directions.
Purple: What? Whatever, attack!
reXer barely grazes the attack!
reXer: Ha! Missed! (oh my god that was close) Multiweapon, Sword!
Purple: Whoa crap! That looks strong, but you didn't hit me either!
reXer: Ugh, one more time!
Shaft: AAAAAA
Purple: wait wha--OOF
Shaft charges in to follow up on the opening and blows Purple away!
Toshu: Shaft followed up? I can't handle kids these days and their thoughtlessness...but this is our chance!
MC: Now, Toshu! Attack from the right! / Ceras, support!
(C) Cerastium: Okay! Toshu, I got your back!

Toshu: Understood! Cerastium, come with me!
Cerastium: In that glorious hero's name!
Cerastium tanks the enemy attacks, and Toshu rushes in to attack.
Toshu: Sword Samurai X!
Oh wait, someone else is there too.
reXer: I can do this! Overtake "Oversynchro Execution"!
MC: Wait, what? When!? And he's hogging the VP!
Red: What ARE they doing!? Is that the rising star Operator I heard about!?
Toshu: WHAAAAT
Cerastium: What? reXer!
Shaft: D-did reXer hit Toshu too?
Yes he did. Toshu got bombed along with the rest of the opposing team.
PA System: Game set. Team Red wins. Calculating points.

Title Card: The Justice I Admire

PA System: Points have been calculated as follows. MC: 319 pts. Cerastium: 422 pts. Shaft: 554 pts. Toshu: 576 pts. reXer: 228 pts.
reXer: What!? Why do I have the least again!?
Toshu: Why is that a mystery to you!? You went off on your own, and you got me caught up in your special attack! Thank goodness Shaft was there to save me! And we have a whole audience watching everything! [insert more lecturing here]
reXer: But I tried so hard...
Toshu: I am not done yet! Why did you cut in and hinder us?
reXer: Getting in the way wasn't the plan. I just went in because I thought I could do it. I have to keep an eye on the flow of things if I want to bring us to victory and--
Toshu: Who CARES so much about winning!? Do you realize how much danger you put yourself in chasing desperately after glory!?
reXer: !! I-I'm not...desperate...

Shaft: Okay, that should be enough. We've won, so why don't we celebrate that with a drink? We are in a game, and there's many choices I'm unfamiliar with. (steps in between with drinks in hand)
Shaft: Here, Toshu, some super konbu tea. And this one is Mega Blue.
Toshu: ...fine, I'll stop here this time. But reXer, getting too focused on winning can cloud your eyes. I don't know why you are so fixated on it, but you should look around yourself some more, especially for your own sake.
reXer: ...!
Toshu sideeyes reXer who is balling up his fists, then takes a drink and sits down.
reXer: ...why? (goes to sit elsewhere and turns around)
MC: The team is falling apart. If only they could get along.

Shaft: Yeah, but they did only meet like today or however long it's been. The old reXer I heard of did move on his own sometimes, but that was still coordinated with his team. What do you think, Cerastium?
Cerastium: ...I might be misreading things, but he seems anxious about something.
MC: Huh. About what?
Cerastium: I don't know how to put it, but it's something I see a lot in new or transferred heroes. They try to do everything themselves instead of just their parts. Like responsibility and duty makes them feel like they HAVE to do it all...am I making sense?
MC: Hmm...so what's his deal?

Shaft: Huh. When I first started playing rugby, my senpais warned me against that. One for all, and all for one and all that. In group sports, what people wanted was team work. It's the same for pro gamers...yet reXer really wants to stand out for some reason. It's almost like he's somebody else--
Cerastium: Sorry to interrupt, but this is all conjecture. Only he knows the truth, but if this is how reXer wants to play things, then I want to support him.
MC: Really? Shouldn't we do something about his attitude?
Cerastium: We can do something if we know his motives, but not yet. We still don't know him, and he doesn't know us, so I want to try to match his pace. I think that's what teams are like. Okay?
MC: Alright, I guess we were rushing things too. / I wanna know more about you, Ceras.
---
(C) Cerastium: Hehe, same. In that case...
---
Beep beep!
reXer: Our next matchup! This time, I'll...! (runs off towards the marked location)
Shaft: Wait, reXer! ...we should go too.
Cerastium: R-right. Come on, Toshu, MC.
Toshu: Sigh...
Shaft: (What did I learn in rubgy and my old battles? I should first know my allies, and that's how I'll figure out my position!)

Later, at some rocky area
Subaru: ...oh, MC. Are you the Operator for the opposing team?
MC: Subaru, long time no see! / Nice outfit!
---
(C) Subaru: T-these clothes? I didn't picked them out to be fashionable. I change clothes too sometimes, please stop staring.
---
Hydoor: Oh, MC. You here too?
MC: Hydoor! / Hydie! / Awesome outfit!
---
(B) Hydoor: Stop calling me that! You wanna piece of me!?
(C) Hydoor: Heh, it's not like I wear the same clothes all the time! ...it's cool? Hell yeah it is!
---
Pubraseer: What's up? Are they here yet? ...oh, MC! It's been a while, how've you been?
MC: Yay, Pubraseer! / Wow, cool clothes!
(C) Pubraseer: Nice, huh? I was told to dress up since it's an event, but I don't know much about fashion...I went with the store recommendations.

Cerastium: Sacre bleu you know ALL of them!?
Subaru: Meh, it happens. If anything could be bad luck, it'd be not getting along with a new face.
Hydoor: You wanna start shit with me, Mister Romance Novelist!?
Subaru: Could you calm down? I was just making an observation.
Hydoor: What? Speak up, Mumbles!
Subaru: I want to go home and lock myself up in my office.
Pubraseer: Hey, hey, don't fight. We're supposed to be on the same side. Shake hands! How about we run around all day until the sun goes down? ...kidding. If I can be serious, you really should treasure your friends so you won't have regrets.
Hydoor: Yeah you've only said that a million times already. You're gonna drive me crazy with how I can't get a read on you.
Subaru: ...I have to agree.

Shaft: Uhh...what a quirky team.
Toshu: You HAVE seen our own team, yes...?
reXer: ...is it just you three? Isn't there a fourth hero to your team?
Hydoor: Huh? Where's the old man?
Subaru: Can't say, he's been wandering around for a while now.
Cerastium: ...! Fangirl senses tingling!
???: HAHAHA! Sorry to be late, you guys!
MC: It's him!
Cerastium: OOH
Ryekie: Hey you guys! ...oh! MC! Wow, I can't believe I'm up against your team already!
MC: Justice! / Welp / What, I have to go against you!?

Shaft: Whoa, we have to go against Zap the Justice!?
reXer: Heh! I'll win in the end.
Ryekie: Impressive! Go ahead, come spar with me! I'll take on anyone who comes at me!
Ryekie laughs loudly. Toshu's ears flatten.
Toshu: My hearing...
Cerastium: OooOOOoooH!
Toshu: Cerastium, why are you shaking like that?
Cerastium: MON DIEU, JUSTIIIICE
MC: WHAT / oh, she's a fan

Cerastium runs up to Justice, squealing.
Cerastium: It's you, Zap the Justice, the perfect hero of justice!
Ryekie: Whoa! Who are you...?
Cerastium: I am Cerastium, a hero with UEHA France! I've always admired you! You call yourself Justice, my favorite word in the whole wide world!
Ryekie: Oh, you like justice too? That's good! I! AM! ZAP THE JUSTIIIICE!
Cerastium: YES, I CAN DIE A HAPPY WOMAN
MC: uhhh / SIMP / hey, we're supposed to be fighting here?

Subaru: ...is she on your team? She's checked out mentally.
Shaft: ...I'm not sure what you expect us to do.
Pubraseer: I'm glad she's enjoying herself.
Toshu: ...she's ignoring us too.
Hydoor: Stop showing off for the fans and get ready to fight already, dammit! That's the whole point we're here!
reXer: Yeah, I'm waiting for it to start.
Ryekie: Oh right! Cerastium, I'll give you an autograph later.
Cerastium: Okay, I can wait forever for your signature! I should get it to say "Justice for Justice"...
Ryekie: Okay, let's go Operator!
Team Ryekie's Operator transforms Team Ryekie.

reXer: MC, us too!
MC: Right, execute!
The party suits up.
PA System: Preparations complete. Beginning battle in 30 seconds.
Ryekie: So MC, I've always seen your abilities as an ally, but today I'll be seeing how you operate as an opponent! Don't hold back!
MC: Okay! / I hope I can do this! / B-be gentle
reXer: An S Rank Hero on the other side...but stronger opponents is where the points are. I can do this! I can win! YEAH!
PA System: 3...2...1...
BATTLE START (more happens after)

PA System: Match set. Team Red wins. Calculating points.
Everybody detransforms.
Ryekie: Hahaha, excellent operating MC!
MC: omg we somehow won! / Thanks for the match! / It's nerve-wracking going against an office senpai!
Hydoor: Ugh, we lost. You should've moved faster, Nobeyama.
Subaru: This isn't ALL my fault. They were stronger than I thought they were. And trying to break through Cerastium's shield was folly.
Hydoor: WHAT!? T-that was...willpower, you know!?
Pubraseer: You can't help going over a battle you just lost. I underestimated them, so I'll have to think about that going forward in the next match. Isn't personal introspection what we need rather than trying to pick at the flaws of others?
Hydoor and Subaru: (stares)
Pubraseer: Kidding! Don't worry about it too much. This was fun, but let's enjoy everything coming up too!
Hydoor: ...w-well, your support after I got knocked back was helpful, Nobeyama. Keep doing that, thanks.
Subaru: R-right...taking initiative isn't my strong suit, so it helps when you do so...
Pubraseer: Friends!
MC: Awkward / They teacher and student? / Somehow they're working together

Cerastium: Justice! Um...great fighting out there!
Ryekie: You did great too, Cerastium! Awesome shield slinging with defense, support, and attack!
Cerastium: T-thank you very much! Oh, I can't believe my hero is complimenting my justice! I'm so happy that I could fight against the one I feel is the greatest justice!
Ryekie: Oh cool, thanks! HAHAHA!
reXer: The one she admires...?
Shaft: Wow, who'd have thought we'd see a new side of Cerastium so soon after the fight? I'm a little jealous that she has someone to aspire to be like.
Toshu: Is that what that is....?
MC: Something wrong, Toshu?

Toshu: No, but perhaps I am just overthinking things. There is something concerning in the way Cerastium admires Justice.
MC: what?
Toshu: I noticed because I also have people I aspire to be like. It isn't like being a fan though...I'm not sure how to put it.
Cerastium: Justice, let's talk more about justice!
Ryekie: Huh? You want to know what my justice is?
Cerastium: Yes! Your justice is the justice I want to achieve!
Ryekie: What...?
Cerastium: Please tell me more!
Ryekie: W-wait. My justice is...
The party is shocked.
Cerastium: Huh...? Did I do something rude? You're the justice I admire most, so I wanted to learn about it and walk the path of justice too...
Ryekie: W-well...
MC: Awkward!

Ryekie has to think a bit.
Ryekie: Cerastium, justice is different for everyone. This may sound harsh, but...my justice is mine alone.
Cerastium: B-but...
Ryekie: If you take my justice from me, what does that leave me?
Cerastium: I-I'm not...!
Ryekie: I know. You're touting my justice because you admire me. If you just haven't found your own kind of justice yet, that's fine for now.
Cerastium: M-my...own...?
Ryekie: ...if you ever want to be someone with true justice, you should look for your own justice inside yourself. Never forget that you can do that.
Cerastium: My justice...?

Ryekie: (smiles) Sorry for being so harsh there. I'll be waiting for the day you tell me what your own justice is.
Ryekie holds his hand out for a handshake. Cerastium shyly takes it and shakes hard.
Ryekie: Good luck! Later! (leaves)
Hydoor: Hey don't just walk off on your own, old man!
Subaru: He just comes and goes as he pleases...excuse us everyone.
Pubraseer: Bye MC! Next time, let's hang out and celebrate the festival!
MC: Bye Hydie! / See you, Subaru. / Yeah, let's hang out Pubraseer!
---
(A) Subaru and Pubraseer smile.
Hydoor: DAMMIT I'm punching your face in the next time you call me that!
(BC) The other team smiles.
---
The other three head off too.
reXer: Well they sure were talkative. Dunno what they said though.
Shaft: It's great you got to talk to your hero, Cerastium.
Cerastium: Y-yes, I suppose...
Toshu: Hmm...
MC: Figure something out?
Toshu: ...if you meet your heroes, you must never lose sight of yourself.
Cerastium: My...justice...?

Elsewhere
Ryekie's walking around, arms folded and head down thinking.
Ryekie: Maybe I said too much...? But then...if she's pursuing justice...
Someone is coming up from behind. Ryekie is too distracted to notice.
???: ...
Someone stares.
???: ...nice.
End of Episode

Live A Hero Virtual Fest Royale Episode 1 (Abridged)

Remember how last summer we had heroes fighting each other to be number one? It's that time again! Team Parallel Flight is walking down an underground hallway beneath Raidark HQ. Matrix Capsules abound.
Mokdai: The O-1 Hero Grand Prix is here again! I was confused when I heard about it earlier, but seeing it all now is making me excited!
MC: Down here? What is all that? / Wait what's happening
---
(C) Mokdai: We had the O-1 Hero Grand Prix before. Summer thing, heroes fighting each other. This year we're going virtual for it!
---
Huckle: Raidark's focusing everything into rebuilding Orient City, so they had no resources to get an arena ready. Instead they had an in-house group develop an SR arena area for the competition, and those capsules will link us in. We're here to get in and access the event area.
Akashi: The Supervirtual Reality World The World Neoaxis, huh? Even I've heard about it. But can we really fight in it like we can in the real world?
Mokdai: D-dunno. But isn't it exciting? You can move just by thinking about it!

Ryekie: Hahaha! Real heroes don't get to pick their battlefields, Akashi! And being in a virtual space means we can get heroes from all over the universe! Doesn't that sound great!?
Crowne: Apparently we'll have the most participants coming here ever. I'm surprised they got that many capsules ready for it.
Mokdai: Yeah, that's why I'm personally excited! I might get to talk to heroes I might only get to see on away trips! You think I can get autographs!? Even e-signatures!?
Akashi: Nerrrrd. You think this is a fan club meeting or something?
Sui: I heard we're randomly mixed into new teams instead of sticking as an agency, right? 5 people teams of 4 heroes, 1 Operator...I wonder if I'll do well like this.
MC: Wait what!?
Huckle: Well lots of people were hoping to get in, so there's special rules put in. The competition is a round robin setup, and the scoring is the same as last time. Viewers give points and your score accumulates throughout. There's the best team, best hero, and best Operator categories, and you'll need to beat out great rivals if you want those titles.
Yoshiori: So we'll have to fight our agency mates eventually? I dunno if I can do it if I have to go against Exio...
MC: What if it's me? / Simp / Nice outfit!
(A) Yoshiori: Why are we talking about YOU!? No mercy for anyone!
(B) Yoshiori: N-NO I'M NOT
(C) Yoshiori: Yeah, Exio's looking great today! ...wait, me? W-well...thanks then.

Exio: Heh, no use holding back on me if I'm against you. You know how this is. I've seen your abilities as an ally, but not as an opponent yet so this could be interesting.
Yoshiori: O-oh...! I'll do my best if I go against you then! You'll see how dependable I can be!
Melide: This is getting exciting. It was worth it asking you to join.
Monomasa: Yeah. I never expected to be in here too. It's nice to have battle events too.
Melide: I didn't think you'd be into this.
Monomasa: Well, "Monomasa" wanted a break, so this is good timing.
Okitaka: Hey y'all! Doin' good Huckie and friends?
MC: Okitaka! / whoa those clothes / Nice outfit!
(BC) Okitaka: Look good, don't it? I'm off at my day job too. How's Summer Okitaka lookin'?

Huckle: Okitaka. You're participating too?
Okitaka: Yup, the newbies are lined up too. Go easy, ya hear? Then again we might be on the same team! Oh wait right, work. Look, there's someone who wants to see y'all. Over here!
Sadayoshi: Hello, it's been a while.
MC: Col. Ikusabata! / OMG, NOT military fatigues! / Cool clothes!
---
(C) Sadayoshi: Huh? O-oh, thank you. It feels awkward seeing someone I met through work while out of uniform...
---
Okitaka: I just ran into him, starin' at y'all all flustered. I decided to talk to him and now here we are. Cute how scared he was.
Sadayoshi: N-no I wasn't! I was just...wondering how to speak up to someone I've worked with before after so long while not in a work context. This is embarrassing.
Okitaka: Dude, relax.

Mokdai: Hello, Col. Ikusabata. You know Okitaka?
Sadayoshi: Japan's Defense Bureau cooperates with UEHA, so I often see him. The commander always greets me amiably, but I'm awkward personally...
Okitaka: Holy cat, just take a chill pill and stop worryin' about how to talk to me!
Sadayoshi: I-I haven't been worrying about that!
Akashi: bruh
Okitaka: In other news, Raidark sure put in a ton o' money into puttin' this all together. This was cheaper than settin' up a physical arena? I get how it's marketin' the product placement up front to more people tho. And they stuck a tagline about a battle for the #1 Cyber Hero.
Ryekie: It helps us too! Now we can market ourselves even further across the galaxy. And this time we get cyber battlefields to allow for different terrain and combat types for other hero specialties. This could work out for us too!
Sadayoshi: So we can experience other planetary environments while remaining on Earth in an SR-RPG? I suppose we can think of it as training.
Okitaka: Ohhh, I get it. Raidark is advertisin' its new tech to customers and we can show off to fans in new stage battles. That ain't bad at all. They scratch our backs, we scratch theirs.

PA System: Online systems ready. Particpants, please enter through your assigned pods.
Okitaka: There's the bell. See y'all in the game!
Sadayoshi: Excuse us, and good luck.
Huckle: I hope we all do well. See you later.
Huckle: Okay everybody, time to split up. Don't somehow hurt yourself in cyberspace.
MC: Yes sir! / Good luck guys! / I'll do my best!
MC goes to their assigned capsule.
MC: Uhh... put on this visor, this collar thing, and put my hand here...
MC settles in and the capsule closes up. It's dark during login, but things start filling in.
System: Biodata read. Avatar setup complete. Transferring...
System: Welcome to The World (of Neoaxis)

Title Card: Virtual O-1 Grand Prix

MC is in a cyber plain. Wind blowing. Grass smells. Yep, sure feels real.
MC: This is all virtual!? Oh my god, space tech is amazing.
Moving around feels just like moving in reality. Someone is calling to MC. Also a message window pops up.
Sys. Message: Team assignments completed. Your team is... MC, Operator from Parallel Flight. Toshu, Hero from Heroic Educators Japan. Shaft, Hero from Global Drivers Union, Earth.
MC: Toshu and Shaft! Yay, familiar faces!
Sys. Message: Cerastium, Hero from UEHA France. reXer, Hero from Neotalents Production, Pro Gamer subdivision. Press OK to teleport to meeting area.
MC: who are they
MC clicks OK.

MC warps to somewhere else.
MC: omg teleporting!?
MC is on top of some hill with a nice view. There's a world tree and a town at its roots because of course there is. Definitely needs a reminder that this isn't reality.
MC: Nice, I'm in a fantasy zone.
???: Hello! Are we on the same team?
Someone's calling from behind. It's some big horned lady in dark gear walking up looking all serious.
Cerastium: Can I see your team ID? I'm AX-177.
MC checks their phone to find a new menu added to it. Clicking on that opens up the team ID.
MC: Oh, same ID. So that means you're...?
Cerastium: Oh good, it matches. You don't seem to be a hero, so I guess you're MC?
MC nods. Cerastium stands up straight for a formal posture.
Cerastium: Pleased to meet you. I am Cerastium La Forge, riot policemember and hero of UEHA France. Let's do our best together, Operator. (smiles)
MC: I'm MC, nice to meet you! / Riot police!? / Pretty...
(A) Cerastium: Hee hee. I feel a little better having someone close to my age around.
(B) Cerastium: Yes, I fight on the front lines. Isn't that cool?
(C) Cerastium: ...! O-oh...thank you.

Cerastium: You can call me Ceras. Everyone in my squad does, and we're going to be teammates. (stares at MC)
Cerastium: By the way...you're in Parallel Flight, yes?
MC: Y-yes...?
Cerastium: I knew it! That means you...talk to Justice, right?
Cerastium looks excited as hell.
MC: Y-yeah...why? You a fan?
Cerastium: Yes, I want to ask about more...but not now Ceras. Justice isn't here. Since they work with him, I want to ask their thoughts on the idea of justice...but if I suddenly start talking about that, they'll think I'm weird! And then what if they bring that to Justice's lovely ears!?
MC: O-oh. So she has her quirks too.

???: The HUD is pointing...oh, over there! It's them!
???: Seems so. We've finally rendezvoused then.
Two more people are coming. It's Shaft and Toshu!
MC: Shaft! Toshu! / oooh, Shaft in casual clothes...
---
(C) Shaft: Oh, right this is my first time meeting you in casual clothes. Every other time was work. I haven't worn casual clothes much since doing a job with a uniform, so this was back from my athlete days. Do I still look good in them? Hehe...
---
Shaft: It's been a while, MC. Thank you for your previous patronage. Today I'll be working with you as a hero instead of a space taxi driver.
Toshu: Was the last time the workshop? I never expected to fight alongside you. Still, I'm glad to see a familiar face. I am in your hands.
Toshu walks over, noticeably awkwardly.

Shaft: Toshu...? Are you okay?
Toshu: I-it's nothing. This feels different from the real thing, so I am just a little disoriented.
MC: Y-you okay? / Huh, I got used to it fast / Is it really that different?
Toshu: STOP LOOKING AT ME LIKE THAT! I have trained in roaring flames and dense forests! This will be nothing to me!
Cerastium: Excuse the interruption, but I take it you're my teammates?
Look, Cerastium is calm now.
Cerastium: I'm Cerastium, from UEHA France. Pleased to meet you. I checked your data earlier, but I see you're based in Japan. We're from different cultures, but as warriors I can feel some similarities to you. And you, I've heard you're a space taxi driver...
Shaft: Heh, well it's hard to tell what I can do without my beloved car here. I'm Shaft from Global Drivers Union. Nice to meet you.
Toshu: A Western soldier? I am Toshu from Heroic Educators. Regards.

Cerastium: I'm a little jealous that everyone already knows everyone besides me.
Shaft: I do see them often around Orient City, but it feels weird seeing them here in both cyberspace and at somewhere so pretty.
Toshu: I suppose it is picturesque, but... (looks at the ocean)
Toshu: A seaside city? If there are various battlefields, I suppose we'll have beaches or even inside the ocean...
Cerastium: Y-yes, most likely. I heard a lake shore come up as an example earlier.
Toshu: Oh... (frowns)
MC: Something wrong, Toshu?
Toshu: ...no. Worry not, I shall fight well no matter the stage.
Cerastium and Shaft: ???

Shaft: We're still missing someone. They should be here by now.
Someone warps in. It's reXer!
reXer: Free warps are great. You my teammates?
Cerastium: I-I guess, since you're here? Which means you're reXer?
reXer: Yep, that's me. Pro gamer and cyber hero. Nice to meet you.
MC: Nice to meet you / Literal alienware color scheme! / Hot...
---
(C) reXer: Oh...well thanks. I'm a cyber hero, comes with the territory.
---
Toshu: What, pro gamer? How do you fight? Zipzap sounds and bouncing balls to break bricks?
reXer: What time period did you fall out of!?
Shaft: Oh he's what's used to be called an esports player. Competitive gaming. reXer's part of the mu-Hyperions gaming team, that one strong and famous group.
Cerastium: You sure know a lot, Shaft. Are you into games?
Shaft: Oh, not really... I'm an ex-rugby athlete and esports and physical sports are close enough. reXer's famous as a gamer and a hero, so everyone knows him!
reXer: F-famous? Hehe... Ahem, yes. I fight in games and defeat evil offline.
MC: So that's why you're a cyber hero? / I think Mokdai's watched you before / oh so games are sports these days now...

Shaft: I never expected to team up with reXer, what an honor! He hasn't made a media appearance in a while so the industry people were wondering if he retired. When he did come back, he scaled back his appearances and people wondered if he'd skip the Grand Prix and--
reXer: Oh no! The look of innocent faith! I mean, I've just been busy with stuff. As a pro gamer, I figured it'd be appropriate to make my official comeback at a game event.
Shaft: Oh, makes sense.
reXer: ...so yeah.
MC: Hmm...
reXer: Now that I'm here, we're sure to win. Which is why I want to ask you guys to let me handle everything.
Toshu: Beg pardon?
reXer: I'm saying I want to solo all opposing teams. I won't mess it up.
MC: I-is that a bit much?

reXer: We're in a game world and I'm a pro gamer. Wouldn't it be smarter for me to carry the team?
Shaft: B-but this is supposed to be a team thing!
Cerastium: Teamwork is about trust and working together. Your plan is unacceptable!
reXer: Yeah, that is ideal, but I get a slight edge here for being a pro gamer. So please leave it to me. I'm confident in my gamer and battle skills, and I promise to get us the gold cup.
MC: We're not getting through for some reason, but I get he's confident...
Toshu: You have no faith in our abilities, don't you!?
reXer: Don't get me wrong, you guys are strong. But that's in the real world. If we're going to win here, it's best for me to pull the team along.
MC: Then why would we be in a team? Isn't that sad?

Toshu: Cease your jests! I at least am not here for victory! My only goal is to test my strength, and I have no intentions of being carried by you. What meaning is there in a crown you did not fight for?
reXer: W-well...because this game has a championship title, and that's enough! It's the entire reason this world exists!
Toshu: Hmph. Everyone has their reasons for fighting, and your suggested one is not the only one. All you have said thus far is a desire to win. Why care so much?
reXer: Well... (looks down) ...it has nothing to do with you.
MC: wait what
Toshu: It has everything to do with us. If you insist on suggesting fighting every match alone, you must convince us of your plan.
reXer: ...I said it's got nothing to do with you! It's my own personal problem! ...I-I mean, I have my own circumstances, and I'd like you to not press me about it.

Shaft: Oh no, we have to stop them!
Cerastium: W-wait, Shaft!
Toshu: I said that plan is unacceptable! Who would agree to that!?
reXer: What!? But I--
Shaft: H-hey, guys! Let's all chill out for a bit! We're supposed to be a team, and we're gonna lose if we fall apart here!
Cerastium: R-right! This may be an ad hoc team, but we're still comrades in battle! Let's try to get along, okay?
Toshu: But...!
reXer: ...
Toshu and reXer have a short staring contest. reXer breaks off first.
reXer: ...just leave things to me. I at least...want to win too... let's go to town. That's where the other teams are gathering. (walks off)
Cerastium: W-wait, reXer!
Toshu: Hmph. He never did explain himself.
MC: Welp...this looks bad.
The party follows after reXer. The O-1 Grand Prix is on!
Offline
Someone is sneaking around the capsule hallway. He looks at the capsules as he walks up the stairs, then hacks his way past a security locked door. Inside are a bunch of computers on racks beep booping away. The guy smirks.
End of Episode

Valentine Snow Fight Prologue (Abridged)

Gorozaemon: Sooo, you the guy who said he wanted to transfer over to the Missionaries and Daikanyama?
Stomping noises
Girimekhala: Y--(bam)
Li Chou: OH MY GOD HE JUST SLIPPED
Girimekhala: Ow, I tripped again. Let me try that again, ahem.
Girimekhala: Yeah, that's me. I need to find my own way of life, so I wanna go somewhere else and look at other places!
Gorozaemon: Wow. And you'll go as far as giving up your current place in things?
Girimekhala: ...yeah, it's why I came to Tokyo.
Gorozaemon: Haha, okay. It's a rough road you're taking, yet you're still trying for it! Sounds great! Love and service mentality don't mean that much to me, but you might find that over there. Show them the old Umamichi spirit!
Girimekhala: R-right! Thanks Prez!
Gorozaemon: Cool! Now go ask the paper pushing teachers to get that sorted out.
Li Chou: wait WHAT you're the student council president, do it yourself!
Gorozaemon: Eh, let the specialists do their thing. kthanksbye
Li Chou: uhhhh
Girimekhala: Okay, I'm going now. Thanks for everyth--(trips)
Li Chou: HE TRIPPED AGAIN! Is this gonna be okay...?

Later
Shinjuku
Guy A: Thanks for always! Here's chocolate!
Wolf B: Thanks. Here's some for you too.
Mermaid X: Happy Valentine's...here...
Girl Y: Wow, that's the same kind of chocolate I got for you! Thanks!
Guy C: These are fruit tarts or something with fruits from my homeworld. You guys can share.
Girl D: I got this new product from the convenience store corner. Wanna try them out?
Merman E: This is the chocolate I couldn't give this year...you can have this too if you want.
Behemoth: Wow these are all great! Thanks dudes, here's chocolates I made too!
C, D, E: HOLY CRAP IT'S HUGE
Ziz: Oh my, everyone's having fun. I'm so glad.
Girl D: Ms. Ziz! Have some chocolate!
Ziz: Thank you, I'll have it later. Actually, why don't I put some tea on now?

Touji: Everyone is getting carried away, not that I have anything against celebrations as a Shinto priest...
Moritaka: It's fine, isn't it? The school year needs breaks.
Touji: Maybe, but maybe these love affairs are too open...
Kengo: Details! I'm just glad I can eat chocolate without worrying about people questioning it because I'm still on my toxic masculinity BS!
Moritaka: I bought a lot of Seven Fortunes Daifuku, so let's share them.
Touji: You two are terrible. Huh, this daifuku is nice...
MC: Touji, aren't you going to open up? / Feed me, Moritaka! / oh my god Kengo all those chocolates in your bag
(A) Touji: WHAT? A-a-are you talking about passionate secrets...? No, I would never hide anything from...what are you making me say!?
(B) Moritaka: Okay! Open wide! ...wait, what are you making me do!?
(C) Kengo: Yep! Bought them with all the money I made in Ikebukuro! Here, you can have one...wait this one looks good actually, lemme have a bite.

Ryouta: YOU GUYS I DID IT
Shirou: Ryouta I know you're happy, but you can't run in the hallways!
Ryouta: Hehe, I know Class Rep, but I wanted to show everyone.
Moritaka: W-what's going on!? Do you want some tea?
Ryouta: Thanks! ...ohh, Seven Fortunes Daifuku! And Ikebukuro special chocolates!
Kengo: Focus, dammit! I'll give you one later, so let go!
MC: Sooo, what's up? / (quietly prompt Ryouta to talk)
Ryouta: Hee hee...look, I made chocolate!
Moritaka, Touji, and Kengo: (GASPS)
Shirou: Yeah I know how you feel. It's okay though.
Ryouta: I know it's not as good as Class Rep's.
Shirou: No need to be modest. I know they're good.
Moritaka: I-is that so?
Kengo: O-oh. Well it LOOKS like a decent chocolate...
Touji: Y-yes...
MC: Here goes. I'm ready to die... (gulps the chocolate)

The rest of the gang tries the chocolate.
Kengo: ...w-whoa, it's edible! Actually, it's pretty damn good!
Touji: How surprising. Such diligence, Ryouta.
Moritaka: You've worked hard! Thank you!
MC: Wow... / Great work, Ryouta! / Shirou, did you help too?
---
(B) Ryouta: I know, I'm surprised too! Thanks for helping me so much, Class Rep!
(C) Shirou: War flashbacks...
---
Shirou: Haha, I was close to giving up so many times, but this success came from Ryouta never giving up.
Ryouta: You think? ...if you say so, then I'm glad I stuck with it! I got more guys! And now I'm hungry now that I'm relieved!
Shirou: I've baked some new things too. I'll hand them out in the safehouse later.
MC: Thanks for the chocolates! / Ryouta, say 'ahh'! / Great work, Shirou!
(B) Ryouta: Ahh! Mmm, this is good too! Funny how great they are when I'm with you, MC!
(C) Shirou: Thanks MC. Like I said, Ryouta never gave up. But since you're happy with it, I'm glad I stayed on with him...a-also I made a special one for you. Have some later.

Chouji: Hi guys, I see you got it to them. Nice work you two.
Ryouta: Chouji! Thanks for helping me make them too!
Shirou: Yes, especially since you're busy this time of year. Truly, thank you.
Chouji: I wanted to throw in the towel a bunch of times myself. I'm so glad it worked out...and since everyone's enjoyed it, I'm glad I helped. Oh right, there's something I want to give to you all! There's an event giving out sweets I've made. Check it out if you have time.
Ryouta: Really? Yay! Let's see...Valentine Snow Festival?
Chouji: Yeah, a winter resort opened up recently and they're doing an event from Valentine's to White Day. I'll be making sweets for the resort hotel during that time.
MC: ...a winter resort? So, a place like THAT thing we can't say? Sounds fun!

Ryouta: Oh wow, they made a resort on the mou--up there!
Shirou: R-right! They've got skiing, snowboarding, snowdrifting...so many options.
Moritaka: A-and sleighs too? Not that I want to pull one.
Touji: And they have hot springs too...haven't I seen this place before? Isn't that M--
Kengo: SHUT UP hey hot springs are great!
Chouji: Yeah, Andvari's the owner. The resort is over at Mount Hakone--
Shirou, Ryouta, and Kengo: oh no
MC: All hands brace for impact! ...wait, why hasn't it happened yet?
Kengo: H-hang on, he could come in through the window!
Shirou: No, he'd still be in here by now if he did. Maybe...
Touji: He...didn't hear? A man can dream.
Moritaka: These things just happen...?
Chernobog: WANDERVOGEL
Ryouta: AAAAAA, IT'S HIM! ...no wait, no it's not. Chernobog?
Chernobog: Indeed, though I am late. I still have a long way to go to match the club president.
MC: Wandervogel! / You could, you know, not.
(A) Chernobog: Yes, you live a good mountain life, my brave! ...no, my comrade!
(B) Chernobog: Hehe, you believe so? I am happy to have a goal as a respectable overlord.

Shirou: So Chernobog, why are you dressed like that?
Chernobog: Oh yes, our club is going on a trek tomorrow and I am checking our equipment. There are still unseen mountains to visit around Bald Mountain...or Mount Hakone as it is now.
Yeah that Singularity overworld shift is still up there.
Chernobog: Companionship! Accomplishments! Would you all like to literally join the club?
Shirou: N-no thank you. Haha, wow you've really grown into the mountain hiking club.
MC: Speaking of, where's Zaoh?
Chernobog: Oh yes, that. He's caught up in something, I believe he should be done soon...
Zaoh: need...mountain...fix...
Shirou: Oh my god what!?
Touji: H-he's fading away! What happened!?
Jinn: THERE YOU ARE, ZAOH
Triton: Stop running away! Mr. Mononobe is so mad!
MC: Oh. Karma.

Chernobog: Yes, we went on hiking trips in the autumn, at Christmas, on New Year's...I took classes in between, but the President...did not.
Triton: I can't think of any more ways to shoehorn the word "mountains" into the tests...
Jinn: Yeah that's a bit much for two weeks of make up classes...he just needs to finish one more subject.
Zaoh: the mountains they are so beautiful...
Chernobog: Control yourself, President! Today is the summit you must surpass, then you may see the snowy peaks!
Zaoh: Summit...? Wait what, what am I doing here?
MC: Wandervogel! / Snap out of it, Senpai! You going to the mountains or not!?
---
(A) Zaoh: Wandervogel! Excellent greeting, Kouhai!
---
Zaoh: Thank you, my underclassmen. I see your love for the mountains! I will finish these steep classes and climb a new mountain! It will be so wonderful!
Triton: NOW, GET HIM TO MR. MONONOBE JINN
Jinn: Gottem! There's no mountain you can't climb!
MC: Welp let's pretend nothing just happened

Triton: ...okay, they're off okay. Just one subject left to do, so Mr. Mononobe can relax about this now.
Triton's Missing Dialogue Tag: He's working so hard in the make up classes hoping that everyone graduates! I'm so touched!
Chernobog: Thank you, Mr. Triton. We should be able to go on our club trip together now.
Triton: Haha, this is nothing if it's for my beloved students! Oh speaking of which, I need to talk to you MC.
MC: Me? / NO I DON'T WANT EXTRA CLASSES
---
(B) Triton: It's not that...wait, go to class if you're worried about that! Ugh. Oh wait, I'm getting sidetracked.
---
Triton: Some chocolates came in the mail for you at the dorm. I know it's that time of the year, but it is a LOT. You got a parade of dancers and elephants bringing a ton chocolate and what looks like...a 1/1 scale model chocolate of someone who says he's your older brother? A-anyways, what didn't fit in your room has been put in the dining area.
MC: I'm sorry / That was some rich and fabulous dude, no bigs / I'm gonna take a blackjack to my brother
(A) Triton: It's okay. It's great you have such a vast social network!
(B) Triton: What planet do the rich and fabulous live on!?
(C) Triton: You can't just drop that so casually! ...just, be gentle.

Triton: Oh wait, I gotta go. Can't have Jinn getting alone time with Mr. Mononobe! Don't go overboard and make your homeroom teacher worry, okay?
Kengo: Hey Partner, I can help you eat your chocolates!
Shirou: Eating even half of all that would be bad for you, MC. This is clearly just my concerns about your health as your advisor.
Chouji: Ahaha...well if you ever get sick of chocolate, I can give tips on spicing it up. The Missionaries are going to be handing out chocolates to Strays too. Oh right, that reminds me of something from earlier. The Missionaries will be going to the Valentine Snow Fight this weekend. I'm too busy to go...but if you go, the others would be happy.

Kengo: Oh. Moritaka and I already have plans.
Moritaka: Mountain training. Thank you for the invitation though.
Touji: I have drills with the police school. They'll also be at Mt. Hakone so I might happen to run into people there...
Shirou: I'm networking with other guild-sponsored events, but I'll see if I can fit a day in somewhere.
Ryouta: I'm going on a new sweets tour with friends, but I'll add the place to the list!
MC: Hmm...I might as well go.
Chouji: Thanks, I'll let them know!
Chernobog: Chouji, is this event at Andvari's snow resort?
Chouji: Yes. Oh right, you helped a lot too.
Chernobog: Indeed, I wished to help my friend however I could...also, my brave? If you are going to join the Valentine Snow Fight, could you help my friend!?
MC: wait what
End of Episode

Live A Hero Lost Ancients in Blue Episode 8 (Abriged)

Blue Eyes White Space Whale Dragon: BWOOOOOOONG
Gaius: There, firing!
Gaius pins down the Monster!
Gaius: MC, now! It's gonna attack with its tentacles!
MC: Okay, drone time! Hisaki?
Hisaki: Got it! Summoning for our combination moves!
Hisaki summons his drone and deploys a circular barrier and approaches the Monster.
Melide: Hisaki, a tentacle is attacking the drone from above!
Hisaki: Evasive maneuvers!
The fish drone grazes the attacks!
Andrew: Wow, it's like it really knows what Hisaki is thinking!
Hisaki: We're on the same vibes in and out. Check out my parallel world's power! Drone, ping time!
Fish Drone uses echolocation!

Hisaki: Great, I got the core's location now! You guys see where Cetus is on that thing? It's slightly above him! (points)
Hisaki: Andrew should be able to guard break it with his attacks. We break the core, we win!
Melide: B-but it's too dangerous to get close to it since it's flailing around.
Gaius: Then I'll provide backline support and deflect attacks against Andrew.
Hisaki: Me too. Andrew's the only one with enough burst damage to Protect Break it anyways. My shield will protect you...will you trust me?
Andrew: Hehe...I've said that so many times myself. I can break the core's defenses! I believe in everyone! (smiles)
MC: Let's go! / ...don't get hurt / Bond Power!
Andrew: ...MC. Understood! I promise I'll come back alive. It'll be proof of our bonds.

Andrew charges an attack, then charges in.
Blue Eyes White Space Whale Dragon: OOOOOO
Gaius: ...ugh, that was fast. Hisaki, I'll handle the tentacles!
Gaius rapidly shoots at the Monster's tentacles.
Blue Eyes White Space Whale Dragon: !!
Blue Eyes White Space Whale Dragon opens its mouth and starts charging!
Hisaki: ...high energy readings!? An ether laser!?
Gaius: Yeah, my arrows can't stop that! Hisaki!
Andrew's still charging in at full speed. He smiles a little.
Andrew: ...I'll be okay. I believe in Hisaki.
Hisaki: Andrew, take my shield! Deploying Hero Barrier!

Hisaki's shield comes out at the same time Blue Eyes White Space Whale Dragon fires its laser!
Hisaki: Come on, hold up for him!
Light floods everything! When it finally dies down...
Andrew: I swore to put all my power into this! And I will survive! SUPER ROBOT FIIIIST!
Spiraling energy punch launched!
Blue Eyes White Space Whale Dragon: EEEEEE
Protect Break!
Melide: ...he did it! I can see the core!
Hisaki: Gaius, aim for the core and avoid Cetus!
MC: Gaius, go for it! Sending VP!
Gaius: You say that like avoiding Cetus is easy! But yeah, here we go!
Gaius charges up a giant arrow and throws out his hesitations as he looks at the core.
Gaius: Cetus, I believe in you. So believe in me! Fire, Space Magic Arrow!

Gaius's arrow hits the core at hit scan speeds!
Blue Eyes White Space Whale Dragon: LOVELYYYY
The Monster collapses onto the ground with lots of ground shaking before eventually dissolving into light particles.
Gaius: ...whoo, that was crazy. I thought I was having a heart attack!
Hisaki: ...w-we won! We did it, Gaius!
Gaius: Y-yeah, I can see that...come on, pipe down so we can go check it out. (points at where the Monster fell)
Gaius: I'm worried about Cetus and Andrew...and the villain I guess.
Melide: I hope everyone's okay.
Gaius: Also, I'm tired...
Hisaki: Whoa there! You okay? Hold onto me.
Gaius: ...sorry, and thanks. But let's hurry and find Cetus...
Hisaki: Yeah I know. MC, Melide, keep our transformations on a little longer.
MC: Okay. Let's go get Andrew.
And so the party heads over.

Andrew: ...guys! You beat the Monster!
Gaius: Thanks to you exposing the core...not bad.
Hisaki: Hehe, you could stand to be more honest. Okay gather up team! Drone, go!
The fish drone starts circling around.
Gaius: ...it's healing us. Nice light.
Andrew: Yes. Thank you!
Hisaki: It's cool! The drones are happy to help too.
Gaius: Thanks Hisaki...Gaius, did you see Cetus?
Andrew: Yes, the guardian god is...
Andrew looks back to where the Cetus bots are lying on the ground. They're all silent and unmoving.
Andrew: I did a quick check, and they aren't broken. They just lost power.
Gaius: ...Cetus. Right, that ether energy attack...
Gaius picks out and picks up the Cetus bot he knows.
Gaius: We really pushed you to the limit to defend us... Hisaki. (looks at Hisaki)
Hisaki: (winks) Got it. MC, we got any VP left?
MC: Some. It should work! Maybe!

Hisaki: Okay then, one last job for the day, drone!
Hisaki pets the fish drone, which then flies over to the Cetus bots. There, it shines a light on them that restarts them up.
Gaius: ...damn, that's amazing Hisaki.
Hisaki: Hehe, thanks. My tech works on organics and mechs equally!
Andrew: Wow, so this is how organics and mechs support each other! I'll never forget this!
Andrew's bright eyes see the bonds he wishes to protect.
Gaius: ...Hisaki, everyone, got a sec? (turns towards the party)
Gaius: Thanks...for saving the place where I was born. Sure, the Monsters tore shit up, but it's not too bad...I'd rather not think about how bad it would've been if you guys weren't here, so...

Sudden plot twist!
Gaius: Hey wait why's everything shaking!? Are there more Monsters!?
Andrew: No, it feels worse than earlier like the building is collapsing and--
The party hears water rushing in!
Melide: ...is that water I hear? We should go to the exit.
Andrew: Right, I'll carry the villain. Gaius, can you lead the guardian god and friends?
Gaius: Yeah. Cetus, wake up! Everyone get out, and carry anyone that can't move yet!
Hisaki: Follow me! This way!
The party follows Hisaki's lead, though things are moving fast.
Hisaki: Melide, MC! You two okay!?
Melide: Y-yes, but the water is getting close...
MC: Hurry! It's falling apart too fast!

Water's falling on down hard, and the water level is rising while the party stops to figure out where to go.
Hisaki: Guys, get your breathing devices on if the water keeps rising! Don't panic!
Andrew: ...b-but we'll end up sinking with the ruins at this rate even if we can breathe.
Gaius: So run if you don't wanna get dragged under!
Hisaki: If you got time to talk, you got time to go. The research team should be outside waiting for us!
Gaius: ...hey wait, can't the research team come in and help us?
Hisaki: Unfortunately, the villains actions made the door close. You'll have to open it back up if we're getting in or out.

Hisaki sees the place falling apart as he runs and explains.
Hisaki: Oh geez the future past space tech is falling to pieces. Were they reinforced by absorbing ether? Then that sealed door...dammit, so many things I want to research!
Gaius: Seriously? You gotta survive first!
Melide: My footing! I can't run anymore...!
MC: Melide, take my hand!
MC reaches out to Melide. The water's already up to her shoulders.
Andrew: We should start swimming at this point everybody.
Hisaki: We're almost there. This way!
Gaius: Melide, it's okay. Deep breaths, and swim like we always do.
Suddenly Cetus transforms into Space Nessie!
Hisaki: ...w-what? Did you do that because it's easier to swim that way?
Gaius: ...hm? Something seems different.
Space Nessie Cetus looks at the party, then opens its mouth...
Gaius: wait WHAT

Outside
Marfik: Oh no, the ruins! MC and the others said they were inside! Spread out, people! Keep an eye out for anyone coming outside!
The building shines as it collapses.
Marfik: It's releasing ether while falling apart...oh, it was fixed in place until now using ether? No wait, has the security team called in yet!?
Marfik checks his phone. No new messages.
Marfik: They logged in a stream fighting Monsters and villains until a while ago...what happened?
The ruin's door bursts open!
Marfik: The door? I should go over there myself and--wait what

Space Nessie comes out of the shining water with the party on its back!
MC: AAAAA / Good job, guys!
Hisaki: We finally got out! Everyone okay?
Melide: Yes, I'm fine. Thank you for helping me, MC.
Hisaki: The research team's gathered close by, so I should call...hey wait, I got tons of messages! I better tell them we're fine at least.
Hisaki sends a text, then sees a message scroll by.
Hisaki: Hey guys, they caught the villains who ran away from the ruins earlier!
Melide: ...I bet they ran as soon as it started falling apart.
Hisaki: Yeah, the research team got them. Now we just need to go home safe and sound! Andrew, Gaius, you two okay?
Andrew: I'm a-okay!
Gaius: Same...Andrew, how's the villain you're carrying?
Andrew: Unconscious, but vitals are okay. No abnormalities from a bioscan reading, so he should wake up sooner or later.

Gaius: Good enough, I guess. On another note, I've never seen Cetus do what he did just now before...I'd never he would carry us in his mouth.
Andrew: He definitely saved us from falling rubble!
Gaius: ...Cetus, were you programmed to do that?
Cetus: (Space Nessie noises)
Gaius pets Cetus's neck.
Andrew: You two get along so well.
Melide: You seem happy Andrew. Why's that?
Andrew: I'm sure I am. I'm very happy now to see the bonds between Gaius and the guardian god and Hisaki and the drones!
Andrew smiles while Hisaki pulls out his fish drone. It's sitting in his hand in sleep mode.

Hisaki: Bonds, huh? Andrew, you mind if I ask why you want to be human so much?
Andrew: I was ordered to be human. Plus, I've always been interested in people.
Andrew moves like he's assessing his mech body.
Andrew: ...but now, my dream's been updated. I'm sure organics and mechs can be partners. So many errors have taught me, and I can believe I want that future to stay in my memories. I think this thought process change is a step forward to that!
MC: I think so too. It's a wonderful idea that suits you.
Hisaki: ...yeah. You've got the right to make your dream come true as long as you hang onto it. I'm also aiming for a world where tech can make the world happier with people and machines helping each other. Let's do our best! (holds his fist out to Andrew)
Gaius: ...Hisaki, I don't really know much about tech or machine structures, but you're smart enough to invent lots of stuff, right? I think you can make it happen then. Show me and Cetus that world.
Hisaki: ...yeah! Just wait and see!

Gaius looks at the lake again.
Gaius: ...it's beautiful. Calm, quiet, comforting.
MC: Way different than the day time...it's amazing.
Gaius: Yeah, not something tourists normally see. Not bad, huh? Also since the ruins have sunk, there's light shining through the surface.
Melide: It's shining because ether's flowing...pretty.
Hisaki: Yep. The water flow's making blue light shoot through.
Andrew: We're seeing this because of work, but I'll never forget it!
Hisaki: Oh, haha! I forgot I was here because of work! Wow, today's been busy...and wow Andrew, you've got a talent for making people smile.
Andrew: Really? Thanks, I'll save that for reference!
Gaius: He's just making fun of you, Andrew...anyways, we better get back to shore now.

Hisaki: (frowning) Oh, time to go huh? You get to hog all this for yourself all the time? Then next time I wanna kick back and swim around here.
Gaius: ...you still have research to do on the sunken ruins after this, don't you?
Hisaki: Haha, well yeah. You know me so well now, don't you? You also know the research team isn't here to relax, right?
Gaius: ...then just come back again, not for work. I'll go swimming with you then. And everyone else too, Melide, Andrew, and MC.
Hisaki: Welp, guess I have to!
Andrew: Thank you, Gaius! I'll come back to see all this again too!
Melide: ...I want to come again too. What about you, MC? Will you come with me again?
MC: Sure! Sounds fun.
Gaius nods and looks at some fish swimming around in the lake.
Gaius: I'll show you another part next time. Plenty of sights to see...Cetus, you like this place too?
Cetus makes happy Space Nessie sounds as Gaius pats him. Maybe that was the machine's reaction, or maybe it was just a coincidence. Or maybe...
Title Card: Like He Has a Heart
The End

Fortune Rabbit New Years 2023 Episode 3 (Abridged)

Flashback!
Inaba: ...Lord Onamuji, why did you help me?
Onamuji: Hmm, how do I even answer that
Inaba: I know I got what was coming to me. You could have left me alone, so why?
Yeah the story could've ended there.
Onamuji: ...since some people may agree with that, there can be people who disagree with that.
Inaba: what?
Onamuji: I don't need to act the same as anyone else, that's all. If things go bad the first time, do better the next. And us meeting here was our fate.
Inaba (narrating): And then he left.

The sounds of waves come, unchanging since that day. On the sands, Inaba. In the waves, the shark.
Inaba: I wonder if Lord Onamuji made it okay. I can only pray so, but what should I do? Would you take me, Sharkie? Maybe he's lonely...in which case, I can help!
Shark: (excited shark noises)
Inaba: You'll help? Even after what I did?
Shark: Bark!
Inaba: Thanks! He's the reason we could make up! Let's go to...wherever it is he is!
Inaba jumps like he's counting sharks again. The rabbit's shadow continues projecting on the sea reflection of the moon day and night, here, there, and everywhere. And then one day...the rainbow light reached the sea. Inaba jumps over off the sharks' backs, and one goes with him as a friend to an unknown land, the wonderful world of Tokyo...

Present
Daikoku: I'LL NEVER GET BUSTED HERE
Benten: Why the hell isn't Daikoku actually leaving?
This wacky chase has been going on for a while, but Daikoku never actually ran outside the shrine.
MC: I wonder if there's a reason for that...?
Hotei: Y'all, how many times have we run in circles!?
Ebisu: Benten, maybe we should try our artifacts again.
Benten: He'll just see that coming if we don't mix it up!
Ebisu: T-then what do we do?
Hotei: We'd just be comedians without our artifacts! SOMEBODY WORK WITH ME HERE!
Inaba: W-what the hell, y'all! ...did I do it right?
Hotei: Thanks, Inaba. Gettin' the cold shoulder's the worst.
MC: I guess we should do something he won't see coming?
Inaba: So, surprise him? If I just had a good enough trick...!
Benten: Any ideas, guys?
Ebisu: Uhh...
Hotei: The ideas man is here, y'all! I gots an artifact he doesn't know about!
MC: Wow! / You do...?

Later
Daikoku: (Why can't I leave? A strong bond of fate? This body is thinking it CAN'T leave!?)
Daikoku's still running. And now he's in a less crowded area.
Ebisu: GO!
Ebisu is apparently activating his artifact.
Daikoku: (Blasted fool. I know your tricks!)
Daikoku hides in darkness again. Ebisu however has something else on his fish hook.
Hotei: The Laughing Buddha is taking off! (changes to vending machine form)
Hotei: Behold, my new artifact! When in Tokyo, do as Tokyoites do! Beep boop, targeting Daikoku!
Inaba: W-wow, I've never seen an artifact like that before!
Daikoku: THAT'S NOT AN ARTIFACT!
Daikoku: Oh no, I did it again! This body's memories won't stay down!
Hotei: Vending Machine Sumo!
Daikoku: AAAAAA
Hotei blocks the way!

Benten: Give it up, Daikoku!
Daikoku: Ha! Your artifacts won't work on me!
MC: Right, so we aren't going to use them! (cracks fingers)
Daikoku:
Daikoku:
Daikoku:
Daikoku: YOU COULD DO THAT!?
Everyone jumps Daikoku.
Inaba: Master Onamujiiiii!
Daikoku: AAAAA
Inaba grabs Daikoku's arm all teary-eyed.
Daikoku: You're...
Inaba: I finally found you again!
Daikoku: ...I don't know you.

Inaba: Master, did you forget me!? It's me, Inaba! I came looking for you with my shark friend! I wanted to tell you it's thanks to you that I made up with him and have been living happi--
Daikoku: ...I am Daikoku. Onamuji? Who is that?
Inaba: ...!
MC: Daikoku! Inaba!
Inaba: ...I'm okay, Master. I understand, you're Daikoku.
MC: wait what? Really!?
Inaba: Playing tricks and being tricked is who I am. And he must have his reasons. As long as I can see him and tell him I've been okay, that's enough for me.
Daikoku: (flashes back)

Benten: Huh. You say you're Daikoku, right? I wanna go over your makeup and how it's so different, but if you say you're you, then eh, good enough.
Daikoku: ...w-why am I shaking to the core!?
Onamuji, the one who Okuninushi previously was, obeys no one. But if he's claiming to be Daikoku, then his role and place in the hierarchy will be Daikoku's.
Daikoku: Why do I get the feeling things will be a huge pain if I don't go along with it!?
Daikoku won't stop shaking. Neither does his mallet.
MC: Huh, that mallet.
Ebisu, Hotei, and Benten: Daikoku's artifact!
Daikoku: WHAT
Something dark is coming from the mallet! It is the Great Darkness that covers the seven colors of the world, and it surrounds the shrine in a flash!
Wolf A: W-what now? The fortune sticks are getting even darker!
Girl B: Bad vibes, man
Girl C: Dark sky!
Inside
Touji: I sense evil. Inaba's not back. What's going on!?
Agyou: OH NO THE FORTUNE STICKS

Outside
MC: The sky! / The fortune sticks! / I thought I saw something just now
Hotei: Oh yeah, Daikoku dressed like that before.
Ebisu: Was that before he joined the Treasure Ship?
MC: wait what
Benten: Yeah, Daikoku moved fast way back when. He'd put on make up like a heavy metal rocker and yell about "DESTRUCTION OF A THOUSAND YEARS!" Now it looks like he's some boring old dude who cringes at his edgy teen phase.
Daikoku: NOOO STOP MAKING ME SOUND LIKE A CHUUNIBYOU
MC: Bocchi the Rock reference! / Wow... ('you sweet summer child' stare)
Daikoku: No, that wasn't me! I mean I'm Daikoku, but NOT ME!
Benten: Stop! Denying the Shadow the Seven Disasters makes them rampage!
MC: what

Hotei: Those are the things we Lucky Seven Gods seal away.
Ebisu: I think Daikoku was doing that back in his home world too.
Black > Other Colors, therefore the Great Darkness is at the top of the hierarchy.
Ebisu: Daikoku deny his past and hierarchy means those memories will resurface, and artifacts have past memories sealed in them. So...
Inaba: My darkened sticks are writing something!
They say fire disaster, water disaster, and wind disaster.
MC: Oh no, what's gonna happen?
Wolf A: OW I BURNED MY TONGUE ON HOT FOOD
FIRE
Girl B: Urk! I choked on my drink because you scared me!
WATER
Randos: Oh no we're doing a Marilyn Manson because of the wind!
WIND
MC: OH NO HOW AWFUL / (smiles)

Inaba: Oh no, my fortunes...
Benten: Welp, there's only one thing for us to do.
Ebisu: Right.
Hotei: Ayup.
Inaba: Huh!?
Ebisu, Hotei, and Benten: We must purge the seven disasters and bring the seven fortunes.
Hotei: That's right, MC! When we're together...
Ebisu: We can do things we couldn't do alone.
Benten: It's our legendary reunion! I'm gonna blow up on Twitter first thing this year!
MC: Break a leg! / this cannot end well / (attempt to bail)
Benten: You're filling in because we don't have all seven of us here yet, MC!
Inaba: W-wait, me too!?
MC: Let's do it, Inaba. For Touji too.
Inaba: Master, are you sure?
MC: Sounds like fun / Benten is here, give it up / Such is fate

Daikoku: (stares in cop)
MC: Are you joining in?
Daikoku: Join what!? I--
Benten: Forget him, MC. I don't know what's up with him, but there's no place on stage for people who don't step up themselves!
MC: But I'm getting shanghaied into thi--AAA / But we chased him through the crowds for--AAA / (gets pulled along)
Daikoku: ...
Inaba: What are you going to do, Lord Onamuji Daikoku?
Daikoku: Nothing. As I am now, I have no connection to all this.
Daikoku cannot let his old name be revealed!
Inaba: ...okay. I'm sorry for any trouble I caused you, Lord Onamuiji-Lookalike. You should step back at least. Blessings for your relationships.
Inaba bows, then runs after everyone else. Daikoku watches him go.

Daikoku (narrating): I remember that day that rabbit showed me his flayed back. And I remember how I used to be, believing in the future.
Daikoku: What did I say back then...?
Onamuji (Flashback): If it doesn't work out the first time, just try again.
Daikoku: Huh?
Something starts shining in Daikoku's pocket. It's the fortune stick he picked up earlier!
Inaba (Flashback): The worst reunion of all time! Stop fighting and let it happen.
Daikoku: Did he mean the Seven Lucky Gods? This really IS the worst reunion, isn't it Daikoku?
Daikoku is now shaking because of other emotions instead of terror.
Daikoku: ...very well then, Daikoku. I'm borrowing your body, but now I will deceive the world even further and return what I borrowed.
The Lucky God Daikoku normally cannot be summoned in his normal class because he has the same class and power as the Great Darkness, the one who existed in Deva Loka and Shangri La as a double-sided being. Also he's banned from existing in Tokyo, his role and power detached from him, and he's sealed in the Void Horizon.
Daikoku: Syncretism means I can cover for Daikoku's class, and if we BOTH feel like it, we can do this...
The Lucky Mallet starts making noise. Inaba's power is making connections, meaning making connections to yet unseen futures...

Later
Ebisu: Fishing for fortune sticks! Gooo--
Ebisu slips on a banana peel. Tex Avery intensifies.
Ebisu: WHYYYYY
Hotei: Hotei Sack Catch!
Ebisu: T-thanks, Hotei.
MC: My turn to try! Plot sword, cut the dark mist!
Sudden wind blows MC off balance just when they were about to hit it.
MC: Whoops, guess I'll give up.
Benten: what. Bad luck is gonna win fr? Is my biwa gonna explode if I try something!?
Benten is shredding her biwa harder than usual, but her worries about what could happen is in itself bugging her.
Ebisu: Maybe it's because we're at a shrine on New Year's that this is happening?
Hotei: Maybe, but this ain't gonna be all chipper if we don't do something!
Benten: Ugh, if only he was here! ...what's that!?

Daikoku: Comrades, I have kept you all waiting. Were you waiting for my Golden Hammer of Heaven's Auspices?
Benten: OMG SO COOL
Daikoku: Destruction of a thousand years to the Seven Disasters! Strike the eight skulls henceforth and let loose the screams of uncountenanced masses! The daiko of the Seven Lucky Gods rings true as the Great Darkness Daikoku advances!
Ebisu, Hotei, and Benten: Yay, Daikoku!
Inaba: !?!?!?
MC: nerrrrrd
Daikoku: DON'T LOOK AT ME LIKE THAT, THAT'S JUST HOW THE MEMORIES GO! ...ahem. Hahaha, behold my ingress ye adherents! Heh, it has been some time you three. We will talk later, you know what we require now, yes? 15 seconds, sinking time go!
Inaba: W-what...?
MC: The Treasure Ship! / Dress up! For luck! / Is he talking about the other Lucky Gods

Ebisu: But we can't summon the Treasure Ship here! We aren't in a dream and don't have enough power for that!
Inaba: Numbers? Well, there's four of the seven here, and Master and I make six. Oh wait, can we add Sharkie to make seven!?
Benten: Well sure, but we need to look the part too and boost our Lucky God signal!
Half the crowd of randos have no idea what they're looking at.
Benten: All people see when they look at us is a normal pretty girl, a fisherman, and a bad comedian yelling loudly! Which means half the crowd doesn't see us as the Seven Lucky Gods!
Daikoku: Ding ding, correct answer! That is the Unfortunate Terminally Online Social Media Maiden I know!
Hotei: Oh, we have to dress up!
Benten: I can't, tho. When we broke up, I took my dress to the cleaners and--
Ebisu: HOLD UP WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY EARLIER!?
Hotei: Daikoku, where'd you get your clothes fro--oh, the mallet!
MC: It's--
Daikoku: Yes, yes already, 'tis the fortune-bringing Lucky Mallet!

Daikoku bonks the air which spread light particles that magically dress up the rest of the Lucky Gods.
Ebisu: Hey, these are our old clothes!
Hotei: Yeah!
Benten: Awesome! That cleaning place I went to closed down, but now it's time for us to go full throttle!
Ebisu: Okay then...!
The Treasure Ship descends to Tokyo. People ooh and gasp! Showtime!
Ebisu: Wait, the Treasure Ship is here even though we aren't in a dream or in cyberworld?
Daikoku: I picked up my connections and had my servants encircle this area so it is now an Enclosed Space. Now we need three more people to fill in the gaps...
Inaba: O-oh! Me! Please let me help, Someone I'm Not Supposed to Know!
Daikoku: Haha very well then, Rabbit I Clearly Have No History With. Thus we now tie a new connection...
Lucky Gods Plus Inaba: We must purge the seven disasters and bring the seven fortunes!
Benten: Hit it, peeps!
BATTLE START (more happens after)

Benten: More power, people! One more song, let's hear that applause!
Benten runs from one end of the ship to the other. The cheers are cleansing the darkness on the fortune sticks and weakening the Seven Disasters. Still not enough though. Still got parts of the audience to reach.
Ebisu: Wait, all these people cheering and it's still not enough!?
Hotei: Benten's runnin' on empty too!
MC: Almost...!
Inaba: Let me handle it! Remember, it's the Year of the Rabbit now! And since it's New Year's, I get about as much faith power as the Lucky Gods! Watch me, Master and Somebody Else!
Daikoku: ...very well.
Inaba: Let's go Sharkie! Our legend starts here!
MC: The shark! Inaba's fur!
Inaba starts writing in front of everyone.
Inaba: Behold the Noble Phantasm of the Inaba White Rabbit!
The lucky stars are all together, and their faith fills the area.
MC: The fortune sticks are brightening up again!

Yasha A: Hey look at that!
Oni B: What? I'm busy cooking here and it's been dark outs--WHOA
Inaba: Believe in the seven fortunes and fortune will come to you! A-and now, your destinies look bright! Look up into the sky, even for a second! Then, say the magic words together!
Oni Couple or whatever: what?
The clumsy words of Inaba, not together enough to be called a fortune.
Benten: Nice, Inaba! Wanna write a song for my band sometime?
No one can take their eyes off the Treasure Ship. More faith gathers, and the ship shines brighter. All who look at it smile, and the darkness from the fortune sticks clear away.
MC: Happy New Year!
Ebisu: Full speed ahead! To the center of the shrine!
Hotei: Anchoring position, getting the spotlight ready!
Daikoku: 80%...90%...100%! Lucky Power, 700%!
Benten: Get over here people, it's time for the grand finale!
Inaba: Ack, don't pull! Master, Sharkie, come on!
Benten: All together...!
Everyone: Happy New Year's, best wishes to all!

Inaba: Sharkie, look at my box!
Shark: Bark!
Inaba tightly holds his box of fortune sticks as the power returns to them. Someone headpats Inaba from behind.
Inaba: Huh?
Inaba turns around, but no one is there aside from the faint smell of cattail flowers.
Inaba: Let's go, Sharkie! Things have settled, and people are waiting! Thank you everyone...Lord Whatsyourface. See you later, Master!
Daikoku: ...heh.
Daikoku is the only one to turn around while everyone watches Inaba go, giving a little wave as he disappears into the shadows. It was a man calling him Daikoku instead of Okuninushi that Inaba met, and a new bond was forged. The new tale of Inaba and the shark begins here, and what future awaits him is unknown to him still. But there is a fortune that tells him that there will be a day Daikoku will go back to his original name, and that fate will cross with the Summoners. Until then, Inaba will stand proudly by his new master in Tokyo.

Later
Solomon: Wow, crazy new year again. (eats rice cake)
Solomon: Oh you wanna know what I did? Father and I decorated a racket together! I tried really hard, you know? Father had a drink and took a nap halfway through. Isn't it cute? Not as much as me of course! Look, it's a rabbit! Speaking of which, did you get a fortune stick?
MC: Oh right, that. Wanna go with me?
Solomon: Sure, I hope we meet lots of new people this year! I'm still first though! You're always having fun with everyone else... Oh, I really wanted to see the Treasure Ship! Master, will you hear me out?
Solomon hurries you along, carrying his New Year's racket. What will your fortune say? One thing's for sure though is that everyone is wishing for the same thing: may we all have a great year.
The End

Live A Hero Lost Ancients in Blue Episode 7 (Abridged)

Melide: I'll operate Hisaki. MC, you take the others!
MC: Okay! Andrew, defend! Gaius, aim for the back ranks!
The party is working together to pressure the villains and keep them from attacking!
Melide: Hisaki! Get your drone ready! Enemy in the back is charging!
Hisaki: Got it! Stick close to stay in the shield, guys! Now charge, drones!
Green: O-oh no! Is he gonna blow them up!?
Hisaki: No way, assholes! These drones defend me!
Hisaki's drones barrier charge at the enemy!
Green: Wha--AAAA
Hisaki: How do you like that!? Now's our chance, guys! I'll buff you! *(deploys drones near Gaius and Andrew)*
Gaius: Whoa! I'm feeling charged up!
Andrew: Amazing!
Gaius and Andrew look to MC.
MC: Ready? Let's go!

Gaius and Andrew nod.
Gaius: Say your prayers yet?
Blue: Pshaw. What's one extra drone gonna do?
Andrew: We may be of different races, but I believe we mechs and organics have a bond!
Gaius: I'll never lose to hostage takers! (draws bow and charges an arrow)
Gaius: For the lake! For Cetus! And most of all, my friends! Space Sagitta Magica, Convegentia Aquans!
Gaius fires a rain of water arrows!
Gaius: ...these ruins are my home. Get out!
Blue: ...urgh, get the barrier out! It should hold up!
The salvagers get ready to kick out a barrier unit.

MC: Andrew, now!
Andrew: Right! The drones and I are thinking the same thing! All mechkind lives by mutually supporting organics, and we will make you regret treating us so badly!
Andrew charges his fist with whirling energy!
Andrew: Robo Vanguard Fist!
Andrew cracks the villains' barrier, and Gaius's arrow rain breaks through it!
Blue: NOOO
Gaius: Nice, Andrew! That should be most of them!
Andrew: Organic-Robot bond! Friendship!
Gaius: R-right, I did call you my friends...right, never change Andrew.
Andrew: I don't understand?
MC: Great combo guys! / Tee-hee, shy Gaius / I'll tell you later, Andrew
---
(B) Gaius: N-no I'm not! Andrew's just too earnest.
Andrew: Thank you! I think you're an honest guy too!
(C) Andrew: Thank you, MC! I want to learn for human reasons, but I also want to increase my social link with Gaius!
Gaius: ...you're enjoying this, aren't you MC?
---
Gaius: ... (sigh) never mind me. Save it for later, we're still in battle. Though Hisaki looks like he's done.

The KOed villains default out of their transformations, and this half of the party regroups with Hisaki and Melide after making sure of that.
Gaius: Hisaki, Melide! You two okay?
Melide: Yes, and it looks like you guys are done too. Hisaki beat up everyone else.
Hisaki: Welp, it's just you left. Feel like surrendering yet?
Green: ...dammit, where are the others--the radar ping is going away? Dammit, they're ditching me! I need another exit--
Hisaki: Fail trumpet sounds! We can escort you to the exit if you want?
Green clicks his tongue and runs further in.
Gaius: Stop being a stubborn bitch! After him!

Later
There's a huge door blocking the villain's attempted escape.
Green: Oh no! It's too big! I can't move it...!
Andrew: Stop, evildoer! It's time you learned to regret your misdeeds.
Green: Stay back, or I'll use this! (pulls out a familiar cube)
Hisaki: An Ether Catcher!? You had another one!?
Gaius: ...are you seriously thinking of taking Cetus and the bots hostage again? (looks at the nearby floating bots)
Green: ...heh, you don't know how Ether Catchers are really meant to be used.
Hisaki: A bluff.
Green: (smirks) Ether Catchers can absorb and separate nearby ether bodies. So what if I compressed and fired that ether?
Hisaki: !! You're gonna use it to make a bomb!?
Green: Yeah, and it oughta be a big bomb with all these bots around right...?

The villain holds a finger up to the Ether Catcher's on button. Cetus sees this and reactivates its Space Nessie form, rushing up to stop him.
Gaius: NO!
Green: ...ugh, you're in the way! Fine, I'll just trap you again! (click)
Cetus gets trapped again! The other bots are getting sucked in too!
Green: Ha! Know your place, you junk scraps! I--wait, what's that shaking?
The Ether Catcher keeps sucking things in. Cracking sounds resound as the ruins shake.
Gaius: ...an earthquake, now!? And it feels big!
Hisaki: It shouldn't be, the ruins are floating in the water...which means it's something else...
Andrew: Look! The door the villain is standing in front of!

Blue light from the door gets sucked into the villain's Ether Catcher, which causes the door to weaken and open.
Green: Yes! Luck is on my side! I was gonna bomb the door with this, but this works too! Catch, people!
The villain attaches the Ether Catcher to his spear gun and points it at the party. It's glowing white hot.
Andrew: High energy readings detected! It's giving off high temperatures!
Hisaki: OH NO
Green: Have fun in your next life!
MC: Hisaki, deploy your shield! Full force!
MC sends all remaining VP to Hisaki.
Hisaki: Okay, feast your eyes on my tech and get behind me! Overload Barrier Charge!

The villain's attack bears down!
Hisaki: Hold! Hold, dammit!
Melide: Hisaki, no! You'll hurt yourself if you put that much strength into it!
Gaius: Melide, get behind me! Andrew, we're helping Hisaki!
Andrew: Right!
Melide: ...I'll expand their Paths! Observer Cheer!
Gaius and Andrew's connections are strengthened!
Gaius: We got it! Hisaki, we're helping out together!
Andrew: Hisaki, it'll be okay! We won't lose!
The entire party's power is charged to Hisaki's Parallel Weapon.
Heroes: AAAAAA
MC: GOOOO! / ...win!
Green: W-what!? AAAAGH
The Ether Catcher blows up into tiny pieces!

Andrew: ...it stopped? Hisaki, are you okay!?
Hisaki: Y-yeah...I can still move. Where's the villain?
Gaius: I'll go look. You guys stay here.
Hisaki's shield goes down and Gaius approaches carefully.
Gaius: ...he's out cold. I think he's just KOed, and his transformation should cancel soon.
Andrew: Those fragments on the floor must be the Ether Catcher.
Hisaki: ...okay, things are good for now then. So the energy powering the door shut must have been ether. The villain must've leeched energy from being so close to it and sucked so much it made the Ether Catcher blow up. (sighs and looks around)
Hisaki: ...I still can't believe he'd do all that in these ruins! Or his abuse of cutting edge tech with the Ether Catcher!
Gaius: Yeah, we need to tie him up and make him tell us where his friends are when he wakes up.
Hisaki: We should call the research team and get their help. They should be here soo--
Melide: !? Be careful! I sense something strong and evil...!
MC: Something's coming!
???: SCREEEEE
A roar comes from the giant door...

Title Card: The Bonds In the Middle of Nowhere

A giant Monster breaks through the big door and screams!
Gaius: Oh god what it's huge!
Andrew: We must get away and head to the door! Oh right, the villain--
Whoops he just got ate.
Hisaki: Give him back, dammit! He can't pay back his dues if he's retgone!
Melide: ...Hisaki, we should focus on our own safety for now. It's too dangerous.
The party starts to run, but then...
Gaius: Wait a minute, there's still Cetus and the bots!
The party looks back to see the Monster approaching the Cetus bots.
Gaius: Cetus! Wake up and get away from there!
The Cetus bots recollect the leaking ether from the Ether Catcher and start reactivating.
Hisaki: N-no, wait! If they reactivate, they'll attack the Monster! They can't win!

The Cetus bots float up and beep boop upon detecting a Monster, then turn towards it.
Melide: ...Hisaki, I'm not getting a good feeling about this. Doesn't Cetus the bots run on ether...?
Hisaki: Y-yeah, they have to if the Ether Catcher shorted them out. Why?
Melide: Monsters eat Recognition Value, but I've heard that's because it draws in ether. If the bots absorb the ether in here, they'll draw the Monster's attention more.
MC: What? That sounds like time with the Christmas tree.
Gaius: Cetus, get away from there dammit!
The Monster gets close enough to attack the bots and swings at one!
Gaius: NO! Augh...! Y-you okay!?
Gaius bodyblocked the attack and gets sent rolling on the floor!
Cetus: ...
Cetus stares at the Monster like it's thinking of something, then sends some sort of signal out.

Andrew: ...no, Gaius! The Monster is going to attack!
The Monster pulls its arm back to swing at Gaius!
Andrew: N-no, I won't make it in time!
Gaius: DAMMIT!
Cetus: (Space Nessie noises)
Cetus bots cover for Gaius!
Gaius: Cetus!? W-what are you doing!?
Hisaki: T-they protected him!
A bunch of bots have been smashed into scrap, but more bots come in to keep the wall up.
Gaius: NO!
The Monster swallows the bots!
Gaius: CETUS!
The Monster plays Polymerization! Monster + Cetus = Blue Eyes White Space Whale Dragon!!

Hisaki: WHAT
Andrew: Is that...a Monster? I see the guardian god in the center!
Melide: ...the Monster is possessing the Cetus robots! ...you've seen something like this before, haven't you MC?
MC: ...like with Mt. Fuji?
Melide: (nods) Right. Monsters eat recognition and make people forget things, but sometimes they take in what they eat to be a part of themselves.
MC: That's a thing!? / ...just like at Wehrmalt and the tree.
Melide: ...I think they believed it would be more convenient to use all the ether here to control the Cetus bots.
Gaius: No! Cetus, wake up!
Monster: REEEEE
Hisaki: ...no, get away from there Gaius!
Hisaki sends his fish drone to save Gaius from being pancaked.
Gaius: Whoa! Sorry, and thanks Hisaki! But Cetus...can't we save him?
MC: ...get up, Gaius! It's our turn to save him now! We should still make it if we defeat the Monster!

Gaius: (snaps out of it) ...right. I don't know why Cetus saved me, but I can't just sit on my ass here.
Andrew is picking up a signal.
Andrew: I'm getting nearby waves...it's a radio signal--no wait, an alert from the guardian god! It's telling us to leave!
Gaius: No way...no, we're all getting out together. Hang on Cetus...we'll save you.
Gaius gets up and grips his Parallel Weapon.
Gaius: ...I care about Cetus and the time I spent with him. He's why I never gave up on diving in the lake and the reason I learned about my past...I may be some clone...but that doesn't matter. I want to protect Cetus, and that's all the reason I need to kick Monster ass!
MC: Gaius! (nods)

Hisaki: Gaius, MC...right, we gotta save Cetus quick before it's too late. Hey, drone? We'll do whatever we can if there's something we can do!
Hisaki pumps his fist. The fish drone swims around him in response.
Hisaki: Let's go do what only we can do to shine on someone's future!
Andrew: ...this is a bond, isn't it? Yes, the bond I wanted to see and protect!
Andrew looks at Gaius and Hisaki and sees the future they hold.
Andrew: What is this feeling called? I still don't understand, but I promise to protect your connection because that is my dream!
Hisaki: Sure, I'll show you my bond! Melide, MC!
Melide: ...you're going to fight. I understand. Good luck!
MC: No objections. Let's save Cetus and get that villain back!
MC and Melide tap on their phones to begin operation.
Andrew: ...everyone, I just lost the guardian god's signal! We need to hurry!
Hisaki: Counting on you to operate, MC! We'll take back every life trapped inside!
Melide: I'll do my best too! Let's fight with everyone!
Gaius: Cetus, I'm paying you back for the time you saved me from a Monster. I'll get you back even if I have to bet everything I have!
MC: Careful guys! Wave battle, ride on!
BATTLE START