Valentine Snow Fight Episode 5 Part 2 (Abridged)

Airavata (narrating): Deva Loka is the world of eternal reincarnation. The ideas of near and far mean nothing because there's no goal to strive for. I was given the job of sucking up water and turning it into rain, making the world turn in one big cycle. I did it over and over, and I was happy I was helping.
Airavata (narrating): Deva Loka isn't the only world with reincarnation though. There I was despised as my opposite, so we were split off into the helpful to the world side and the not helpful side. And all because of a difference of faith and worlds. We walked very different paths, so I will save you and work in your place.
Airavata (narrating): You've been struggling with the illusion of finally succeeding in your efforts, and you get mad respect for that Girimekhala. But you'll never get anywhere. Things will always be the same and go the same way, but there is meaning in knowing. Salvation can come from knowing you'll always fail. You can stop, and I'll turn your tears into a rain of blessing.

Present
Airavata: Girimekhala will disappear from Tokyo.
Girimekhala: Urgh!
MC: NO
Airavata floods Girimekhala with light!
Girimekhala: I get it...I'll always be this way.
Airavata: I'm showing him the future. His fate won't change, so nothing will change if he gives up. He's decided to push the quit button on his time here.
MC: He's disappearing...?
Girimekhala: MC...I always wanted to be helpful to someone. I wanted to stand proud, not trip over my feet, and say it's okay to leave things to me. It never happened. When Airavata said it wasn't my fault, I thought it was great that it wasn't because I didn't try hard enough! But now that I thought that, I can't face my old master or my Umamichi friends anymore!
Airavata: ...it's okay, I'll fulfill your role for you. You can stop now, and leave it to m--
MC: STOP, we aren't done here!

Airavata: ...why do you stop me? Why make him suffer any more? No one can live in an unseen future without hope, and Girimekhala can't even progress towards or away anything.
MC: You're wrong, there's more choices than that.
Airavata: ...you shouldn't just say these things. False hope is cruel.
MC: I'm not talking out of my ass. (thinks back to Barong)
Airavata: Hmm. I see you aren't completely shooting in the dark, but you aren't completely sure either.
Shinya: Girimekhala...can I speak with you?
Girimekhala: S-Shinya? Well okay, but you can just forget me...
Shinya: I can't, because I'm just like you.
Girimekhala: What? But you're amazing.
Shinya: No, we're the same. I've kept making the same mistakes over and over again too.
Girimekhala: ...what?

Shinya: People keep liking me without me wanting them to. I hated my power. People's feelings intensify. It's fun at first, but then people want more than just being with me. They want my undivided attention and reject everyone else. I can't return those feelings, so it was hard. I tried distancing myself, I tried approaching first, but nothing worked. Just living was hard...so I ran. Nothing changed. I wondered why I had to live like this. Why did nothing work after all I tried, through no fault of my own?
Girimekhala: !!
Shinya: It's been a long time, and it kept happening. It never worked out...but then I came here and met you, Girimekhala.
Girimekhala: that's just like me fr
Shinya: Yes, it was encouraging to me when I learned you left Umamichi to try something new. It meant I wasn't alone. And here I also met someone who knew what power I had and said they hated me.
Tanetomo: (huffs)
Shinya: Now I feel like I can go on just a bit more. I know it's selfish of me, but would you persist with me Girimekhala?

Airavata: ...fine then. Show me this third option you speak of! Mine is the power of samsara from Deva Loka, letting no one approach nor leave!
Airavata sprays water to create a blizzard that blocks off the nearby area!
Yoritomo: I see, is this the System of another world I heard of? A part of System Deva Loka, specifically. This formation works as both offense and defense, but it's nothing to a World Representative's power like mine or--I should stop talking about that. Let sleeping dogs lie as they say. New plan Advisor, can you set up for me?
Tanetomo: Yes, Your Excellency. You're in for it now, Dumbo! The one who gets the most attention around here is ME! Also, Girimekhala? I admire your struggles to be useful. You struggle facing others after failing? Does it really matter? I can just make you look at me.
MC: Girimekhala! (holds hand out)
Girimekhala: I...I don't wanna give up if there's still hope! Sorry Airavata, gimme some more time! ...I'm really glad you said it wasn't my fault...so I wanna try one more time. I'll do it, even if I trip and fall!
Airavata: :angry:
MC: Let's go!
BATTLE START (more happens after)

Girimekhala (narrating): Every time I trip I think to myself I'm gonna quit this time. But every time there's someone with me who helps me get up to try again. Then I live on. I'll probably keep on doing this: trip, meet someone, live on.
Present
MC: Stand down Airavata! Girimekhala, come on!
Airavata: ...fine, I'll pull back for now. I haven't actually accepted your argument though, so I will be making my judgment after you show me this choice you speak of.
Girimekhala: Well I trip all the time so it oughta be fine. MC, you brought it up first so I'm counting on you!
MC: wait what / eh we'll figure it out / watch the game!
Airavata: You may not leave until you convince me, so you best try hard. (leaves)
MC: Girimekhala! / Welcome back, Girimekhala / (hug)
(C) Girimekhala: What, no I might trip if yo--AAAA (WHUMP) ...s-sorry, you okay MC?

Girimekhala: ...MC, I honestly wondered if it was time to give up. Like, maybe it'd be better if someone else was here to do things. But then you all came for me...and that made me want to keep trying. So, thanks MC! You're my best friend now!
Shinya: Welcome back, Girimekhala...you okay?
Girimekhala: Thanks...oh right. Nothing's actually changed yet, and I'm gonna mess up again eventually. But I'm still gonna try some more until I pay you back!
Shinya: ...great. Let's keep at it.
Girimekhala: Yeah!
Jacob: So, nice talking back there MC. But...you have a specific plan for this?
MC: Uhh, maybe it'll work if you all help me.

Yoritomo: ...fine, I'd rather not lose my useful minions on a stupid drill like this.
Girimekhala: Thanks you guys!
Yoritomo: You should thank MC instead. Assuming this works, anyway.
Tanetomo: No need to thank me either, but I won't stop you if you want to fawn over me.
Andvari: YOU GUYS we are here to help! ...wait
Tezcatlipoca: HAHAHA, aww man you already finished! You took the good part BRRRROTHER!
Yoritomo: You have magic mirror powers, you must've seen that already. Anyways, Sponsor.
Andvari: Yeah, the field's opened up again but the blizzard's still up everywhere else. White Dumbo's keeping us here until we satisfy him, huh? Just in case MC, you aren't planning on staging the last game are you?
MC: Nope! It has to be real.

Andvari: Good, let's keep any refunds to a minimum! It's up to you guys, so please don't tell me you're hurt or whatever...
Jacob: I am okay. My love has not withered.
Shinya: I'm okay too.
Yoritomo: Heh, we're fine. We need not decide the outcome before ending it, but of course we will be winning.
Tanetomo: Indeed we shall.
Girimekhala: I-I'm gonna be in this too!
MC: Whoa wait, Girimekhala. Working hard out there isn't all to it here.
Girimekhala: MC...oh right, we gotta have all the fun with it too!
Andvari: Okay, plan set!
Tezcatlipoca: Time to send the Valentine Snow Fight off with a bang!
Andvari and Tezcatlipoca: GAME ON!
End of Episode

Valentine Snow Fight Episode 5 Part 1 (Abridged)

Barong: Welcome back, nameless mobs! Bad blizzard out, huh? Means we're all stuck up here. This is just like a murder mystery setup! Oh wait never mind me, don't catch a cold haha! New guy, hot towels for delivery!
Amduscias walks up.
Barong: But man, we were so slammed in here and now we finally got more help. Now I can finally get to my real job! Oh, you wanna know what it is? Oh you know, managerial stuff to keep people entertained. Nothing suspicious about that! As Entertainers we just want to keep you entertained, and that's all we think about. Plot twist incoming, enjoy the show!

Elsewhere
MC: Well damn.
Andvari: The weather report didn't say it'd be snowing like that. And now of all times!
Tezcatlipoca: If only this were a normal blizzard...
Andvari: What? ...no wait!
Tezcatlipoca: I can't prove it, so we should look into it.
Andvari: Okay. That said, MC I gotta go calm down the customers. Go wait in the lobby and ask around. You know like everyone here, you should find something out sooner or later!
PA System: Bad weather alert! Today's game might be cancelled, pending updates.
Shennong: Hey Problem Kid. Keeping warm?
Yasuyori: MC, are you okay? Such terrible weather outside.
MC: Morning / Doctor, warm me up! / I was looking forward to the match today, Yasuyori
(B) Shennong: Okay, herbal medicine for you! ...what? You wanted me to help some other way? Next time.
(C) Yasuyori: Me too! But we can't so long as the weather stays bad.

Yasuyori: It's a good thing we have plenty of food and fuel at least.
Shennong: ...yeah we're going around telling everyone we might be stuck here for a while.
Yasuyori: Now's the time to stay calm. We'll show the Warmongers' leadership here!
Shennong: Nice. I'm going on ahead. Call me if anyone sick turns up.
Yasuyori: I'll accompany you! See you later, MC!
Maria: Oh hello MC. Have you seen the weather outside?
Azazel: Unusual for it to snow this hard.
Maria: We can't call out, so all we can do is wait around for now. And do blizzards like this pop up that suddenly?
Azazel: Yes, something seems wrong. I didn't see any forecast like this last night. I generally keep quiet about how much I can see, but with the way we're closed in...
MC: (nod) / ...an overworld shift? / Explain pls
(AB) Azazel: You noticed too? Impressive discernment.

Azazel: Insert Overworld Shift for Dummies here.
Maria: Did a Transient cause this blizzard? Who had an artifact like that?
Azazel: No other changes in the area have been found besides the blizzard, so it's likely whoever became the core was here and has a relevant power. Not that I can prove it.
MC: ...we have to look into this / Yep, no idea what's up. / Time to think of what to do.
(A) Azazel: Yes, I will do my best.
(B) Azazel: That's okay. Recognizing you don't know is the first step to progress.
(C) Azazel: Yes, I love that impetuousness of yours.

Maria: We should do what we can. I'll go check on all our members and put them on alert.
Azazel: I will continue monitoring things and keep the sponsors looped in.
Shinya: Have any of you seen Girimekhala!?
MC: Not since last night?
Maria: I was about to go see him. Something wrong?
Shinya: He seemed sad after that last game so I wanted to talk to him...but I can't find him and I didn't hear anything inside his room.
Maria: Hmm...Azazel.
Azazel: The Eyes of Heaven...say he isn't here. We should hurry.
Maria: Okay, I'll go tell Jacob. Can the rest of you inform Andvari? I'll be there soon.
MC: Let's go!

Outside
Tezcatlipoca: BRRRROTHER! ...tell me we aren't having more problems.
Andvari: Yo. Still snowing here. All we've figured is that it's only the resort snowing out. Might have to cancel like this. I'm gonna miss out on all that sweet sweet cash!
MC: Oh. Have you two seen Girimekhala!?
Shinya: We haven't seen him all morning...
Andvari: I asked him to check on the snow guns. He's not back!?
Azazel: Indeed. Since you don't know, then...
Rest of event cast arrives.
Yoritomo: All Warmongers present and accounted for.
Jacob: One Missionary is unaccounted for...
Tezcatlipoca: Hmmmm...
Azazel: Yes it's still inconclusive, but Girimekhala is likely...
MC: The core? / We gotta find him! (runs)
(BC) Yoritomo: Stop foolish brother...I mean MC! Think about what could happen first.

Azazel: If Girimekhala happens to be the overworld shift core...finding him should help us figure out how to solve this.
Andvari: So, first we gotta find him...
Tezcatlipoca: Hahaha! My mirror will come in handy here!
Azazel: I will do my best too.
Andvari: You guys do that! Now onto the search team...
Shinya: P-please let me go! Cupid can help, and I want to talk to Girimekhala!
Jacob: I would like to join as well. Being anime blind might help me see something. (Also I noticed something at the end of that last game yesterday....)
Andvari: Okay! You going too, MC?
MC: Yep!
Yoritomo: We shall assist too. Objections, Advisor?
Tanetomo: No Sir.
MC: ...you sure? / Thanks Tanetomo! / Thanks Yoritomo!
(B) Tanetomo: I must because His Grace wills it...also if only you three are going things might get even worse.
(C) Yoritomo: !! ...calm down, deep breaths, and let go. Okay? (You must be plotting something! I know it!)

Yoritomo: ...why so surprised? We'd like this resolved ASAP too. If we're restricted to the resort area...
Tanetomo: Yes, the surrounding topographical data is all together.
Yoritomo: Having our bearings will make the shortest path clear. Also there's something I want to check based on what I saw yesterday.
Jacob: Yoritomo, that's...no I'd like to check too.
Andvari: Cool. We'll stand by until you find Girimekhala. Now get a hot drink before you go!
MC: Alright, let's go everybody!
Barong: YO hang on a second!
MC: WHOMST / Hey wait...Barong?
---
(BC) Barong: That's me! Thanks for remembering.
---
Barong: As someone who's also from Shangri La, I felt you needed to hear something about his other side.
MC: what
Barong: Uhh...oh, play metaphors! Change the stage, and you change how the actor acts. So if you change a Transient's world location, you change everything else even if their role stays the same. Shangri La values getting out of the cycle of reincarnation and suffering. It's mirrored by Deva Loka, the world that values continual reincarnation. Girimekhala's other side is worshipped as Airavata.

Elsewhere
Girimekhala: ...huh?
Airavata: Oh you woke up, my other self.
Girimekhala: Whomst!? Hey I can't move!
Airavata walks into view.
Girimekhala: IMPOSTER! You here to fight!? Come at me, bro!
Airavata: It's okay Girimekhala. I'm here to save you.
Girimekhala: what
Airavata: Why the surprise? I was called by all your gathered thoughts.
Girimekhala: I don't even know you!
Airavata: But you should know already. I am you, you are me, we're a shared identity~!
Girimekhala: (stares in klutz)

Girimekhala is unable to deny Airavata's statement due to being unable to sense the distance between them. So, an inability to delineate himself from him I guess.
Airavata: I'm you from another world, so I've watched you and felt your feelings. You felt bad about tripping in Shangri La, and then you came to Tokyo trying to be useful. You didn't, even as you tried to be as good as anyone else here.
Girimekhala: W-what!? No wait, you're just saying shit and seeing what sticks!
Airavata: I see your pain. It sucks not being any help, huh?
Girimekhala: N-no! I still tried!
Airavata: So when does all that trying finally pay off?
Girimekhala: !!

Airavata: You kept trying, and people keep telling you it'll be okay and that they support you.
Girimekhala: W-well...
Airavata: And I saw how much it hurt you every time it happened. Now I'm here to save you from that pain! You poor useless thing. Well you can't help tripping, since that was the only thing possible. That was your fate in that world.
Girimekhala: ...what the hell? Was everything not working right your fault!?
Airavata: I'm sorry I'm late. Yes, it is. You can stop feeling sad now, because I'll be Girimekhala now. I'll be useful to everyone!
Girimekhala: ...what? I always tried, but I couldn't be like anyone amazing...maybe I should just let someone better take over...
Airavata: That's fine. And I can even help in the event you're in. I'll turn things around and everyone will compliment you, and I can do this because I believe in the value of tripping up and turning things over. I'll take your thoughts and turn them into rain and--
MC: STOP

Girimekhala: MC? Guys? Why are you all here!?
Airavata: Oh hello everyone I have mad respect for. Nice to meet you, I am Airavata, another side of Girimekhala.
Shinya: That's nice. Please get away from him.
Tanetomo: We outnumber you.
Airavata: Oh you misunderstand. I'm not here to oppose you.
Yoritomo: Not our business. With how things are, we should just cut you down and be done with it.
Jacob: We may speak freely, with our hands.
MC: We'll save you, Girimekhala! / Wait, something's weird. What are you talking about?
---
(BC) Airavata: Thank you for listening, MC. This is what Girimekhala wants. Look!
---
Girimekhala: ...guys, stop. It's okay.
Shinya: What!?
Girimekhala: I get it now. It'll be okay, the blizzard will stop soon.
MC: ...what are you talking about?
Airavata: Simple. Girimekhala will disappear from Tokyo.
End of Episode half

Live A Hero Virtual Fest Royale Episode 6 (Abridged)

Flashback
Cerastium: I once had a friend I saw as way stronger than me. Then a Monster ate her.
reXer: !!
Cerastium (narrating): My friend had more experience than me, and she had way stronger convictions. I admired her and wanted to be like her, but I couldn't do anything when a Monster attacked. Before all was lost...Justice saved me. I still remember that day, though I'm not surprised he doesn't remember me.
Cerastium (narrating): I was saved, but also frustrated at how powerless I was...it's why I bear my shield now, my strength. I will protect anyone and everyone.
Cerastium (narrating): My best friend gave me so many things...along with one serious problem.

One day...
Bestie: Is it that weird to have horns?
Cerastium (narrating): And then the entire class went quiet. My classmates teased me every day. I'd almost look human if it weren't for the horns. I don't think they were doing it to be mean, they just noticed the differences. Pure curiosity and surprise in a way, though it didn't stop me from hating the constant "wow you're weird" comments. I felt like I had to smile since they were too, but then my best friend I won't name for some reason spoke up about it.
Mystery Bestie: Ceras doesn't look like she's enjoying the comments to me.
Cerastium (narrating): Reactions were mixed, but most were like "what's she on about?" Me though...her words meant a lot.
Cerastium: ...you sure about this? What if they mistreat you too?
The Friend Who Won't Be Named: It's cool, it bothers me too when they pick on you for your horns. And it's not like they have to say every mean thought in their heads. I think your horns are cool.
Cerastium: ...thank you.

Cerastium (narrating): She was strong. She could stand up for what she thought was right, even as a minority. I adored her and wanted to walk alongside her. Time passed by fast.
Cerastium: ...I want to do work where I address society's oddities, the way you did for me. I want to defend someone this time.
Bestie: Awesome! And on that note...
Cerastium: Oh, that flier...
Bestie: Yep, I'm gonna take the job test!
Cerastium: Wow! No kidding!?
Bestie: I'm serious! Let's do our best together!
Cerastium: Yeah!

Cerastium (narrating): My friend and I were one day hoping to work in the same place and job together. And then we both managed to get into the riot police. Things were busy, but it felt like we were doing the right thing. But one day I could see her starting to worry, and she said...
Bestie: ...Ceras, I don't think we thought our dreams all the way through. What really IS justice?
Cerastium: What?
Bestie: ...what if you saw someone stealing for example?
Cerastium: I'd arrest him!
Bestie: And what if he was stealing to feed his little girl Space Cosette because he had no money and no job?
Cerastium: Umm...
Bestie: ...sorry about springing a weird question on you. I guess justice isn't that simple.
Cerastium: ...
Bestie: I don't think I can reach out to everyone, so I want to protect the ones I can at least. It's the one way I can think of to figure what justice is. Maybe we should talk about it sometime. I wanna know what your justice is.
Cerastium (narrating): We never got to, and I always thought about her last words and smile. Now I have to think about it again...

Title Card: Pretender of Justice

Present
So there's this one guy sneaking into Raidark's The World Neoaxis server room. They have spare login capsules there for some reason, and an intruder alarm is going off. This guy doesn't give a crap about the alarm as he gets into a capsule.
Inside the game
"Ryekie" is standing somewhere up high with a vantage point before reaching up towards the sky. Graphical noise occurs.
Window: Please insert password. Please insert password. Please insert password.
Area stages flick by.
"Ryekie": ...things are going good. I want things to be perfect when I work.
"Ryekie" clears out the weird error message window and looks at the stages.
"Ryekie": Hmm, halfway point? Whose ass do I kick next then?

Elsewhere
Shaft: Thanks, MC! Let's all work together, everyone! reXer's already attacking, so you and I should go support him, Toshu!
Toshu: Very well! Cerastium, cover us!
Cerastium: Okay!
Blue: Hey wait, I thought their teamwork was supposed to suck!
reXer: Thanks guys, I was almost pushed back there.
Shaft: It's okay, reXer. We're teammates. Anyways, they're open now!
reXer: Right. Toshu, let's go.
Toshu: Hmph, I know.
That high place
"Ryekie": They're still here? Okay, off to stomp them then.
Outside in the server room
A Monster starts spawning in!

Back in the game
MC: Great work guys, we won somehow!
Shaft: Thank you for coordinating us, MC!
Cerastium: You did great on the call outs too, Shaft. We're becoming a team for real now!
reXer: Yeah. Shaft, do you usually fight like that?
Shaft: Oh, uh, it's nothing. Ahaha... I'm just using my rugby playing experience here.
Toshu: Oh yes, I've watched a rugby game at college. I can see how it's similar to hero fights nowadays.
Shaft: I thought so too. With a team focusing on the same goal, I'd like for us to gel together so I do what I can.
reXer: Being a team center's the same anywhere, huh?

Cerastium: Wait...is that your justice, Shaft?
Shaft: That’s a bit much, but it's my policy at least. I've always lived that way, so I want to keep it going.
Cerastium: !! (flashes back to Toshu talking about justice, and then Bestie who doesn't even get a name wondering about justice)
Cerastium: ...people can have different ideas of justice despite going for the same thing. Oh...is that how it is? Thank you Shaft, Toshu!
Toshu: O-okay?
Shaft: Well if it helped.
Cerastium: But then, what's my justice? Hmm...
Beep beep!
MC: Oh, there's another team nearby already!
reXer: Alright, get your head in the game MC! Where are they!?
Shaft: My phone says that way...

Later
Narihito: Hm? Oh hey, MC! Looks like you're moving up steadily! Can I get a comment later?
Kalaski: ...you know you aren't here for interviews, right? Hey MC. You're next? Go easy on us.
Yep, it's them two.
MC: Kalaski, Narihito! / Wow nice clothes today, Narihito / Cool casual outfit, Kalaski
(B) Narihito: Hey, I don't always go around in a heavy jacket! I'm dressing up since I'm not here as a reporter.
(C) Kalaski: Eh, I guess. It's what I wear when I don't need to go to a warzone. Still ready to go take pictures if something neat happens.

Cerastium: MC, is there anyone you DON'T know?
Kalaski: MC's just that famous. And somehow, we get shuffled into teams and I STILL get stuck with this guy...
Narihito: We need each other because of our jobs. Sometimes he comes with me on interviews.
Kalaski: Reminder that I'm a war photographer and not a paparazzi camera dork.
Narihito: Yes, I know. I'd rather not walk into a battlefield, so maybe a gossip piece next...
Kalaski: WHY do we need each other again...?
???: Is the next party here? I think I heard a familiar voice.
It's Alphecca and Lilac!
Alphecca: Ah, MC, pleasure seeing you again.
Lilac: Hello MC, haven't seen you since the flower festival.
MC: Your Majesty, Lilac! / Wow you're dressed a lot more outdoorsy, King / Nice sporty outfit, Lilac!
(B) Alphecca: Haha, this is what people would call my incognito outfit. It's tiring to be in my royal clothes all the time. Rutilix isn't nearby, is he? He kept going on about elegance and dignity.
(C) Lilac: Haha, it's easy to move in and I heard it would be hot here. I'll be here as a hero instead of a florist.

Alphecca: Oh, you know them too, Florist?
Lilac: We helped each other out once. Also could you not refer to me by my job title?
Alphecca: Ahh, I hear about their achievements everywhere in my kingdom.
Toshu: King Alphecca Genma XXI...so you really are a hero as the rumors say.
Alphecca: Hmm. Aren't you from the East on my home planet? You're a king too, so no need for formalities. We are both knights, or heroes as they call them off planet.
Toshu: Uhh...has he gone mad?
reXer: Wow MC, we're up against a team of people you know besides the Operator.
Shaft: You sure have been around.
MC: I guess?

Alphecca: Now that we are all here, shall we begin?
Team Alphecca transforms!
Cerastium: We should transform too! MC!
MC: Okay, here we go!
Team MC transforms! And suddenly, an announcement.
PA System: Teams on standby confirmed. Starting soon. 3...2...bzbbzt
MC: wait what?
The UI window blacked out.
Kalaski: What's going on?
Lilac: Is this some beta bug?
Suddenly Ryekie warps in!
MC: WHAT / uh, why are you here?

Cerastium: J-Justice! Why are you here? ...wait, something's wrong.
reXer: Hey we already fought you, we aren't supposed to fight again. Is there a bug...?
Shaft: Maybe he's here for some other reason? Like he just passed by? He was lost on the way to our match earlier.
reXer: But he teleported. The warp system is supposed to be locked and--!?
Narihito: Um, Justice we're in the middle of something.
Narihito approaches "Ryekie". "Ryekie" holds his hand up to Narihito.
reXer: NO GET AWAY FROM HIM
BOOM
Narihito: OOF
Kalaski: Narihito!
Narihito just got hit with a lightning bolt!

Lilac: What is the meaning of this!?
Alphecca: Get back, Florist!
Alphecca saves Lilac!
Lilac: Ah! ...thank you, Your Majesty.
Alphecca: It's fine. But who is he...?
"Ryekie" turns towards Team MC.
"Ryekie": I really should move things.
MC: what
Toshu: Justice is oddly quiet right now.
reXer: It's not him! The only people who can teleport in this game are--
Shaft: No way!

"Ryekie" warps himself and the party elsewhere.
MC: WHAT
reXer: It's you again.
Shaft: But if he is, why does he look like Justice!?
Cerastium: ...no wait...
"Ryekie": ...Giansar.
Party: ???
MC: who?
Toshu: ...I recognize your strange tricks, cur. Wasn't that what that other hero did? How?
Giansar: Easy. This is a game, and I can hijack bodies here.
reXer: I knew it. You're a hacker!
Cerastium: ...let him go. How dare you toy around with people like this!? Let Justice go! (readies shield)

MC: No wait, it's dangerous to get close to him!
Cerastium: !? Ahh!
Cerastium's charge is stopped by a bunch of lightning striking in front of her!
Giansar: ...chill, Justice ain't dead. I just transferred him. You guys can go there too so I can get my evil plan going on. (smirks)
Shaft: ...careful, we lost to him before.
Toshu: And who knows what he means by what he just said?
reXer: ...then we just have to win.
Giansar: ...ha. Come at me, bro.
MC: Here he comes! Get ready!
BATTLE START (more happens later)

Shaft: Rugby link tackle!
Giansar: You're too slow.
Shaft: What!? He's even faster than before!
MC: reXer, after him! / Toshu, other side! / Pincer him!
---
(AC) reXer: Okay! Toshu, work with me!
---
Toshu: Let's go! RAAAAH!
Giansar: ... (suddenly warps out)
Toshu: What!? AAGH
reXer: AAAH!

reXer and Toshu's attacks bounce each other away!
Toshu: Dammit!
reXer: He keeps getting faster!
Giansar: Losers. Still...
Cerastium: Give Justice back!
Giansar: ...hmph. (warps)
Cerastium: !? Where'd that coward go!?
Giansar warps back in to punch Cerastium in the back of her neck!
Cerastium: oof... (faints)
Giansar catches Cerastium.
MC: Oh no, Ceras!

Giansar: ...you guys are weak, but it's gonna take too long to take you out all at once, so I'll just go on at a time then.
Shaft: Cerastium! You, hold still!
Giansar: You are such a pain in the ass.
Shaft pulls a feint before attacking Giansar. Giansar still dodges him.
Giansar: Her first, then you guys. (runs off with OP speedhax)
Toshu: !? How is he doing that?
reXer: He must be hacking his movespeed.
Shaft: Cerastium!
MC: Wait, you're gonna chase after him!?
Shaft is attempting to chase Giansar at full speed.
Shaft: I'll never let you take her!
Giansar: >:C (speeds up)
Shaft: DAMMIT! Agh...! (falls down)
Giansar: ...hmph. (stops long enough to snort before running again)

reXer: Shaft, we finally caught up with you!
MC: Are you okay!? Don't push yourself, we'll get a chance to save Cerastium.
Shaft lies there and grabs at grass.
Shaft: ...if only I had my space taxi... (looks up to the sky) I can't save her as I am...
MC: Shaft...
reXer: ...giving up? (shakes fist) You taught me to value teamwork! How can you lie there and not try to save her anymore!?
Shaft: !!
reXer: If running won't work, do something else! I don't want to give up on Cerastium, and you are the one who got me to think that way!
Shaft: ...right...we're friends. (slowly gets up) I don't want to give up...I can't stand giving up. We finally became a team, so I don't want it to fall apart now. (looks off in the direction Giansar ran off in)
Shaft: I need more speed. I want the power to save my friends!
Beep beep!
MC: wait what
Phone: New Path detected. Subject: Shaft. Connectivity: Very High.
Shaft: I won't give up on my team...my friends! I promise I'll get Cerastium back!
End of Episode

Valentine Snow Fight Episode 4 Part 2 (Abridged)

Girimekhala (narrating): I remember the day everyone in Umamichi saw me off. That apparently includes Hotei. They said if I'm taking my own path even if I keep tripping, it's all cool. That place is like my second home. But it's too comfortable. I always had regrets about how this one time I wasn't any help and couldn't fulfill my role. I was supposed to threaten someone and I messed even that up! I literally tripped at the worst time! I wanna be helpful and prove it!
Present
MC: excuse me what
Yoritomo: ...I see, except not really.
Tanetomo: As His Excellency says. What is going on, General?
Tezcatlipoca: Hahaha, very well then!
Andvari: You did great hyping the event, you know?
Tezcatlipoca: I'm the one who said just giving it to you would be boring! (zing!) Wait, stop throwing snowballs at me!
Andvari: ANYWAY, we got something nice for you guys! Hidden capsules you can trade for fabulous prizes!
Tezcatlipoca: Find the capsules!
Andvari: Yeah!
MC: oh...is that really it?

Yoritomo: ...I see. I'm not one to get involved in such things, so I'm going to refrain.
Tezcatlipoca: Hmmmm, every man has his price!
Yoritomo: ...are you saying you have something that might interest me?
Tezcatlipoca: A certain shady butler got me front row ticket seats to this one sumo wrestler's championship match.
Yoritomo: !! Maybe I do have time to participate in your farce.
Tanetomo: W-wait, what!? Understood, I shall join too! ...also, what is this ticket business?
Yoritomo: That sounds like an invasion of privacy.
Tanetomo: I'msorryI'msorryI'msorry! (It can't be a literal ticket. What could that butler have gotten...?)
MC: I'll help, Yoritomo! / Let's bathe together, Tanetomo / I'mma enjoy the springs first
(A) Yoritomo: AHH! I mean, no thank you MC. If you are feeling so helpful you should go do so with the Missiona--stop running off and listen to me! Ugh, I'm leaving. I hope the hot waters can help with my stomach.
(B) Tanetomo: How interesting, but I shall pass for now. His Excellency is....anyways, excuse me. Don't catch a cold.

Shinya: MC, this place really is just reserved for us! That's amazing. I always thought being in a quiet hot springs with someone was impossible so...this is nice.
Jacob: Shinya, let us give thanks for the owner's kindness. Oh yes, could you two lie over there? Don't think about how odd it is for me to ask that. I can give you two some special massages from my boxing club.
Shinya: Um...massaging, with your strength?
Jacob: Yes. Being anime blind allows me to use the power of love to improve your love circulation. It's quite popular in the club! My hands are so amazing I can punch away your stiffness, fatigue, and memories.
MC: wait what was that last one / are you gonna hit my vital spots / Kinda interested...

Shinya: I'll pass, thank you. I'd like to do the treasure hunt!
Jacob: Oh okay, I'll just train and prep for tomorrow.
Shinya: Ahaha, maybe I should too...hey look, something's in the water.
MC: Oh, maybe that's it. Wonder what we can get?
Shinya: Maybe we all get something picked just for us?
Jacob: I'd like some of the sweets from this event in that case. I can give them out for charity to children.
Shinya: That's a great idea! Maybe I should get some too to research for my cafe.
Jacob: Let's go look then.
Shinya: Okay! Cupid, will you help? Oh, thank you! I'll go this way, MC you got that way.
MC: Sure!

Later
MC: No luck so far
Girimekhala: Hey MC! Having fun? What are you looking fo--oh, the treasure hunt?
MC: Yep, but nothing yet. Wanna join? Fab prizes!
Girimekhala: Nah, thanks. Here, I just tripped over this.
MC: Well thanks, but you sure?
Girimekhala: Yep. I'm not the kinda guy who has the things he wants falling into his lap from elsewhere. Go ahead, I'm not in this thing so take it. Also wow is the sponsor generous...it's amazing how everyone can stand on their own. Anyways, I'm heading back...what's up, MC?
MC: Girimekhala... / Are you pushing yourself? / I love you
(B) Girimekhala: Haha, nope! And even if I was, I wanna be helpful!
(C) Girimekhala: I hate myself for being useless...but thanks.

bwong
Girimekhala: Urgh. Dammit, I feel like my heart's gonna tear apart--ah!
MC: You okay!?
Girimekhala: Y-yeah, forget about me! I hope that capsule helps you!
Andvari (somewhere offscreen): Hey, private hot springs time is ending soon! Bring your capsules if you found one!
Later
Tezcatlipoca: Hahaha! You've returned!
Andvari: Okay one last hurdle: fight and take your prize from us!
Jacob: :)
Shinya: o.o
Yoritomo: :/
Tanetomo: :(
MC: what

Andvari: Say something dammit.
Tezcatlipoca: Maybe this plan was a bad idea.
Andvari: I thought it'd be great, but back to the drawing board I guess. Whatever, take this.
Jacob: Uh...?
Shinya: Aren't these our snow guns? Except different?
Tezcatlipoca: I still had some of the budget to custom order hot water guns!
Andvari: Now fight us with them!
Yoritomo: Is this going where I think it's going?
Tanetomo: Yes, we shoot him to hell.
Tezcatlipoca: Hey wait, you two. Don't just focus on me--(bang)
Tanetomo: Oh well, them's the rules. I don't make them.
Yoritomo: Indeed, I apologize this isn't the kind of war you like, General.
Shinya: Well this is surprising, but this seems like fun.
Jacob: Love, no matter the time and place!
Andvari: Yeeeah, we shoulda thought more about the team setup. More to reorganize with the plans.
MC: Shut up and dance!
BATTLE START (more happens later)

bangbangbang
Tezcatlipoca: Well done! But defeating me will not end thi--
MC: (finish him) / (let someone else finish him)
BANG
Andvari: ...time to rebuild the plan from scratch. Here's your prize, go hype things up tomorrow!
Yoritomo: ...finally it's over. I'm going now.
MC: did you just get a ticket or somethin--
Yoritomo: Oh yes, Missionaries. Do not think you will win the next game. It has already been decided before we even begin.
Jacob: Such trash talk. (The fists of) love will prevail because of the virtues in our hearts.
Yoritomo: I heard you people were relatively meek, but I should rethink that.
Jacob: I look forward to tomorrow.
Tanetomo: Shinya, you best not hold back against me out of a misplaced sense of friendship.
Shinya: I won't.
Tezcatlipoca: This is going to be great!
Andvari: Go rest up, can't have you collapsing tomorrow.
MC: See you tomorrow!
Everyone leaves. Girimekhala is having soul pains or something again.
Girimekhala: Urk
MC: ...Girimekhala? (follow him)

Hotel
MC: ...where is he?
Girimekhala: Mental. Breakdown. Imminent! Not that I recognize what this is!
MC: Girimekhala!
Girimekhala: MC!? Why are you here...?
MC: Because something seems wrong with you. What's going on?
Girimekhala: O-oh, I was asked to polish up our snow guns. I actually do great in solo jobs. I'm not as awesome as everyone else, so I wanna do what I can...seriously, mad respect for everyone else. A guy with crazy fists and a guy with crazy strategies, a guy who sticks with his role, and a guy who presses on even though he has no self-confidence...
MC: But you did great today too
Girimekhala: Haha, thanks. But I'm not really. You know, I fell into the snow, I fell on Jacob, and then I stuck with you and didn't really get much done myself. I tried to make things successful, but I didn't really contribute.
MC: You ARE amazing / Are you pushing yourself? / I wanna cheer you on at least
(A) Girimekhala: ...lots of people say that, and they don't really know what way I'm supposedly amazing. What's so special about me?
(B) Girimekhala: Well yeah, how else do I keep up with other people? I stay up late studying yet I still struggle in class. I secretly practice sports and then I trip in the big game. But then people tell me not to push myself so hard! What do I do then!?
(C) Girimekhala: Thanks, my school friends tell me that a lot too. But then I trip down the halls while carrying stacks of papers, I break lab equipment...I try so hard, but I still can't make it work!

Girimekhala: Uh...n-never mind! Ow, my chest! N-no, I mean don't tell anyone!
MC: What's wrong? / Let's go see Shennong! / Isn't this serious...?
Girimekhala: No I'm totally fine! And like...I still haven't been any help since I joined the Missionaries! I won't be able to stand it if I fall over and everyone looks at me with pity! ...sorry MC, I'm gonna go outside to chill out. You should go to bed soon.
MC: Oh...good night. Call me if something calls up.
Girimekhala: ...yeah, night.
Girimekhala (narrating): In Shangri La I had just one job and role: giving a trial to a certain Someone. And that someone was the Buddha, the only important person in the world, so that he could reach Nirvana. I was the mount of Shangri La's demon lord, and I was supposed to be scary. But then I choked and tripped. I had just one job and I failed. Everyone just told me "there's always next time," but then I keep messing up the next time too! Then that rainbow light came, so I crossed it to find something I can finally do.

Outside
Girimekhala: (sigh) I can't believe I did that. And MC didn't deserve that from me... this pain is so weird, it's like I'm not being myself anymore. Shit, I know already! Things will be fine without me, everyone else can carry it to success since they're so awesome. I just got carried away by being around them in the same uniform. Nothing's changed...I haven't been any help at all.
???: That's fine, isn't it?
Girimekhala: WHOMST
???: It's okay, I came to save you
Girimekhala: what the hell does THAT m--
???: It's okay, I'LL make your wish come true.
Girimekhala: W-what...? Dammit...MC... (Shadow Realm'd)
Morning, Hotel
MC: (yawn)
Andvari: MC, there you are! It's an emergency, look outside!
MC: Uh, that is a huge blizzard out there.
End of Episode

Valentine Snow Fight Episode 4 Part 1 (Abridged)

Andvari: Hey MC, nice work!
Tezcatlipoca: HAHAHA, that was an amusing war! Bringing you here was the correct choice, BRRRROTHER!
Andvari: The event's popping off on social media and we are killing our audience count expectations for tomorrow! Lots of people are asking about playing snow laser tag here, so I had to talk with him...
Tezcatlipoca: We're putting the snow guns up for rent. I don't really care what happens after a war.
Andvari: He wanted me to stick them all in storage! You better get some good use out of them then! Oh well, I'm earning a ton on this so good luck with that.
Tezcatlipoca: HAHA, that ought to put my advisor in a better mood!
MC: wow you guys are suddenly friends / let's talk pay bonus! / I should bring the gang next time
(A) Andvari: Eh, it's a good business partnership. He's actually a good businessman!
Tezcatlipoca: HA! I am the rising smoke, but this is a fine compliment. I don't want to be a merchant though, but I like how warlike you are in the marketplace. Call me if you ever tire of the Berserkers!
Andvari: Good one! Oh right, MC...
(B) Andvari: What? You signed a contract, you're not getting anything more! ...except...
(C) Tezcatlipoca: Ooh! That makes my heart sing, even though I--oh I wore that joke out? Oh well. But we Warmongers shall gladly face you then, BRRRROTHER! Oh yes, Andvari that thing.

Andvari: Bonus for you MC! ...stop looking at me like that! We are making more money than expected, so you get something for your work! You and everyone in the event cast get to go to the private springs!
Tezcatlipoca: Don't look so disappointed, BRRRROTHER! We have a surprise for you there!
MC: oh no
Tezcatlipoca: Haha!
Andvari: C'mon, it's all cool!
MC: okay fine what else is new

Arslan: Hey cub, nice work out there!
Zabaniya: Indeed, your technique was enlightening.
Arslan: Come on, stop being a stick in the mud and celebrate the win!
Shennong: Hey you can't say in front of me, fellow teach.
Arslan: Oh my bad. But winning or losing all comes to luck. Don't students love to celebrate a win?
Shennong: Heh, well if no one gets hurt it's all good.
MC: You three together? / When'd you become friends? / Weird grouping
Shennong: Eh, we went at it hard the first day and now we're complimenting each other.
Arslan: You fight good for a noncombatant!
Zabaniya: Agreed. I'd like to learn from you too, so please allow me to speak with you.
Shennong: I'm just a medic, I ain't that good. I'm never getting used to the war front for pride's sake. Anyways, these sweets handmade? They're good.

Zabaniya: Yes, Chouji Iimori made them.
Shennong: Isn't he in Shinjuku? Wow, he works hard outside school!
Arslan: You know about cooking?
Shennong: I invented medicine in Hourai! Of course I know. Did you know chocolate has medicinal effects?
Zabaniya: Fascinating. I did not know that.
Shennong: Well you can't eat too much of it. Oh right, Problem Kid. Doctor's present! I'mma feed you myself, open wide.
Arslan: Aww, you could've just asked cub. I can do that too!
Zabaniya: I-I mustn't! Unless...
MC: C-calm down! / O-okay then (opens mouth)
(A): Shennong: My bad, kidding! ...but you look like you'd like it.
Arslan: Sorry! That was cute.
Zabaniya: You were joking!? I-I mean...
(BC) Shennong: I can't believe you did that. Oh well, you best only be like that with me.
Arslan: Cute! I can fawn over you too if you want.
Zabaniya: Here's one from me too...please don't look at me, thank you...

Zabaniya: W-we should stop! It's almost time...
Arslan: Oh, right...
Zabaniya: We are going to the hot springs now before it closes for the private party.
Arslan: We're here, we might as well see it. Bye!
Shennong: I can't get in, so I'm going to my room. See you tomorrow. Don't catch a cold!
Shinya: Hi MC! You did great again earlier!
MC: You too! Had fun?
Shinya: Thank you, and yes. I'm glad I came.
Tanetomo: ...well done earlier, MC. You clearly showed His Excellency how one can singlehandedly destroy organized tactics and exploit openings.
MC: Uh, haha... / Say that to Jacob / Think different of me now?
(AB) Tanetomo: ...now that I know that, I'll only announce my next plan.
(C) Tanetomo: Aww, how cute. Yes, I'm rethinking my next anti-MC countermeasures.

Tanetomo: Please remember, MC, that I...actually we will win in the big picture. If we can't stop you from approaching, we'll just do something else. If we can't stop your attacks, we'll nullify your effectiveness. Have fun in the third match! Also...what were you saying, Shinya?
Shinya: Yes...will you talk with me?
Tanetomo: Are you doing this deliberately? I've got dullards with me now.
Yasuyori: Why not talk? We aren't fighting, so talking with a rival would be good.
Tanetomo: Must be nice to be so carefree. Times like this--
Angel: Hello Master Shinya, might we speak about the earlier battle...?
Wrestler: S-Shinya, would you like to have chocolate with me!?
Bug: L-let's go to the hot springs together!
Shinya: Um, sorry I'm talking with him now.
Mobs: We'll wait!
Tanetomo: LOOK, RIGHT THERE
MC: welp / Don't tell Kalki / oof...

Tanetomo: Do you enjoy provoking me? Are you TRYING to pick a fight with me like this?
Shinya: I like that you're harsh to me like this.
Tanetomo: Don't make me your harem nag! I am the bratty cute one who is on top of things, get it right.
Yasuyori: I think your honesty is your biggest virture, Advisor.
Tanetomo: ugh. Well let me be clear Shinya: I hate you because it irritates me seeing someone else act like I do. Please go away, thank you.
Shinya: That makes me want to talk to you even more now. I want you to talk to me like that more, even from far away.
Tanetomo: (stares in shock)
Shinya: Why don't you come visit my cafe sometime?
Tanetomo: You sad, insolent thing. Fiiine, I'll come over and take your harem for myself. The riffraff will know who the really cute and lovely one is around here!
Yasuyori: I'll come too! I heard your cafe is fancy...
Tanetomo: Our school cafeteria is plenty fancy with me there. Oh whatever, be sure we get good seats. You too MC. You should be there to fawn over me.
MC: Awesome! / See you there, Shinya! / no fights pls
(C) Tanetomo: Then you better keep your eyes on me, okay?

Shinya: Thank you, I'll have the best table saved for you all...oh wait, I promised I'd call to check in on the cafe. Bye.
Tanetomo: Hmph, who does he think he is? Shameless.
Yasuyori: Haha, but that's why he can speak as an equal to you.
Tanetomo: ...
Yasuyori: That reminds me, have you been gaining weight latel--
Tanetomo: Did you say something?
Yasuyori: N-nothing!
Tanetomo: Excuse us, MC. We have...business to attend to.
Yasuyori: No please! Stop pulling my ear!

Mephistopheles: Hello my emperor and Faust!
Chouji: MC! Hi, you did great out there!
MC: Chouji, you're here! And Mephistopheles too!?
Chouji: Ahaha, the other members are doing something else in Aoyama. I was working there, but things being so much more busier than expected meant there weren't enough sweets. I came to help, and I'm kind of happy about that.
Mephisto: Sir Chouji has done well. I came to watch everyone indulge themselves into ruin, hehe. Oh, MC! Are you wondering why I'm here? Well I'm a Warmonger, so I was supposed to be in the snow gun fights. Watching everyone sacrifice themselves for their beliefs in this game is truly worth--I mean, never mind. Unfortunately I will not be participating. But I have been asked to help as hotel staff because a shortage of hands.

Front Desk or something
Barong: Hello, room service! Looking for a drink? Cleaning call? A knock up? Oh no, the phones are off the hook! New guuuuy!
Wherever MC is again
Mephistopheles: Yes, that. I'm managing some of the wait staff.
Chouji: You're doing a great job with the service work.
Mephisto: Oh thank you, it is an honor from such a famous dessert chef as you. They say it is good experience as well.
Chouji: That means I can make more dainty things? Awesome!
Mephisto: As much as I like watching the corruption of gluttony, I must ask that you not take too long to serve things up. Speaking of, would you like some MC?
MC: Thanks Chouji! / Whatever you suggest, Mephisto... / I hate sweets
(A) Chouji: Here you go! Hehe, sorry to everyone else but I'm glad I came here. I missed out on giving you some at school, but let me make something special for you later.
(B) Mephisto: I would be glad to serve. This one first, with matching drink of course. Give me any order at all. No need for payment until you are completely satisfied.
(C) Chouji: It's okay, I got that covered.
Mephisto: I shall go then. No need to worry, I will always be with you until you finally fall to ruin.

Mephistopheles: I am the shadow that serves you until the end. Give my regards to my useless other self.
MC: whomst / Don't call him that! / Glad to have you, never mind the end bit
---
(BC) Mephisto looks surprised but pleased.
---
Mephisto: For your sake, I hope he is never any help to you. I am only half-serious. If he is ever any help to you, it will be in hardships you have never seen before. Much like standing against a storm you cannot weather alone. As your humble servant wishing to serve you, I don't want to see such a gloomy future. Word of advice, you should consider the friend of that exchange student from Asakusa. Many things can help because they are useless, just like meaningless games. If they ever become helpful, then--oops that's all the time for ominous hints I have now! Excuse me.
Girimekhala: MC! I know you're eating, but it's almost time for the hot spring to be closed off for the private time. We got tickets to go, so might as well. And I wasn't any help earlier, so I need to make up for it! I still got work, so you go ahead first. Bye!
MC: Thanks! I might as well then. Come quick!
Girimekhala: Sure! Later!

Hot Springs
Yoritomo: ...why are you here? I was told this place was reserved.
MC: They didn't tell you? / He set this up...
Yoritomo: I see. I will need to speak with the manager then, excuse me.
MC: Why don't we stay together?
Yoritomo: No thank you...please don't take it personally. I've been shaking since just now, clearly it must be the cold. Now, enjoy yourself while I--
Jacob: Hello you two! Let's go into the water.
Yoritomo: Jacob, I am--wait, let go!
Jacob: Love...!

Yoritomo: ...may I have some space at least? From you, and...also MC.
Jacob: Don't be so cold! I'm happy we can be so close. Let us all go in together!
Yoritomo: You are as stubborn as my disgraceful brother!
MC: Love is amazing / Whoa, Jacob / Is Yoritomo gonna be okay?
Suddenly Andvari and Tezcatlipoca! Also Shinya and Tanetomo are here.
Tezcatlipoca: Hello everyone, and stop getting ready to throw your buckets!
Andvari: Come on, give us a second first!
Tezcatlipoca: Yes, indeed. We have something to say...
Andvari and Tezcatlipoca: Treasure hunt time!
Everyone Else: ...
MC: what I just want to get in
End of Episode half

Live A Hero Virtual Fest Royale Episode 5 (Abridged)

Toshu (narrating): How long has it been?
Flashback!
Toshu: Oof!
???: You hesitate. Do you feel terror being in front of what you fear?
Toshu: N-no! I...!
Toshu (narrating): It's cold, I'm wet, and it's been years since I became obsessed with being a samurai. I went on a journey to find out what being a samurai meant. Sparring under a waterfall and training my mind were linked.
Toshu: Urgh...
Toshu (narrating): But all that trying didn't make my instinctual fears stay down any better.
???: You fear getting your feet submerged that much? It's shocking how much slower you are in the water.
Toshu: ...!
Toshu (narrating): I'm afraid of water. I've tried to get over it, but it hasn't worked. It's still my biggest fear to this day.

Title Card: What I Saw at the Bottom of the Water

It's intermission time again!
PA System: The rankings are--
Everyone in town is watching the news. It's the mid stage of the competition and rankings are being read out.
MC: So we're in the middle of the pack. We can make a comeback, but I bet reXer's worried.
Cerastium: Uh, what are these X-ed out teams?
Shaft: They've been eliminated because more than half the team was taken out.
Cerastium: What? But we haven't even hit the midpoint number of matches yet. Doesn't that seem strange, even with things being different this year?
reXer: ...it must be him. Now that I think about it, something's up with his strength. It's not like his field change trick and warping us with him was a big hint or anything, like his OP attack and defense. Seriously, I never heard of any hero with warp powers before.
MC: Is he cheating? / Hacking? / I don't follow
(C) reXer: He must have some code hacking ability.

reXer: I've got pro gamer intuition from all my time doing this...though it could just be salt. I doubt there could be an OP hero just popping up here for the first time.
Flashback
Toshu: Oh no, I'm in water!
Red?: I looked you up earlier!
Toshu: What!?
Red?: Loser!
Present
Toshu: ...even if he is cheating, he still hit our weak points. I need to be able to fight on that terrain, even if it's only in here. (thinks and looks at the party)
MC: Toshu? Something wrong?
reXer: ...what?
Toshu: ...you're most qualified. reXer.
reXer: What? Why are you staring at me?
Toshu: There's still time before the next round, so...I want you to come with me for a moment.
reXer: ...what?
Toshu: MC too...please.
MC: What's going on...?

Later
Toshu brings MC and reXer to some quiet inlet. Water quickly reaches their feet on the sand.
Toshu: This works. (closes map screen)
reXer: Really, why are we here?
Toshu: ...I want you to help me train.
reXer: What? Us?
Toshu: It can't be that surprising.
reXer: Maybe...? You seem strong enough to not need training.
Toshu: Of course I do. The way of the sword is limitless.
reXer: oh.
Toshu: And now I've realized my weakness can drag the team down.
MC: So you DO have your shortcomings / Figured
Toshu: ...I won't belabor the point. MC, transform us.
MC does so.

reXer: Just so you know I don't hold back much.
Toshu: Fine. Come at me!
Toshu rushes reXer with his sword!
reXer: !!
reXer parries for a blade clash!
Shaft: We finally caught up! You guys are fast.
Cerastium: Wait, why are they fighting?
MC: Toshu said this was training.
Shaft: Why?
Anime sword fight on the beach! And then water splashes Toshu.
Toshu: !?
Toshu slows down. reXer takes advantage of the opening!
reXer: You slowed down, old man!

Toshu still manages to graze the attack!
reXer: ...you're shaking in the middle of training?
Toshu: ...no, I shook a lot against that man earlier too. I fear for my footing, and that leaves me open.
reXer: (thinks) Oh right, we got taken to a swamp. Are you afraid of water...?
Toshu: !!
Back to anime sparring! Toshu gets wet again.
Toshu: ...!
Toshu's legs go soft for a second before bracing again as he shakes his head.
reXer: H-hey wait! I know how it feels to be scared! Everyone has--
Toshu: NO
reXer: !?

Toshu: I may fear water, but I cannot let it stand anymore, especially in a virtual port town with water everywhere! I must avenge my humiliation to get over the shame! And most of all...I must apologize to you.
reXer: What...?
Toshu: YOU'RE OPEN!
Toshu swings. reXer manages to block.
Toshu: My weakness was displayed earlier. I must train my mind and skills, revisit all I know so I am able to fight near water.
reXer: Wouldn't that just be a quick and dirty stopgap?
Toshu: Even that would be fine! I need to get better, no matter how little that is!

The rest of the party is watching the fight.
Shaft: ...I guess that last fight really upset the both of them.
Cerastium: That man was clearly doing something strange. He was overwhelmingly strong, but Toshu still means to face him...that must be his justice...
Shaft: ...it doesn't matter if we're up against a coward. Toshu's the kind of person who can't let himself stay as is when his weakness is discovered.
MC: I wanna be like that / Giving up means the end / He's kind of a slow starter, huh?
(AB) Cerastium: Yes...I should try to be like that too.
(C) Shaft: Yes. He's a regular person like the rest of us.

Toshu: UGH! I must calm down and stop swinging like a fool! I must conquer my fear of water! And to do that I must first calm down and--
reXer: GOT YOU
Toshu: OH NO
Toshu gets launched into the water!
MC: Oh no we have to save him!
reXer: Goddammit! I'll go!
Meanwhile, Toshu is underwater and calm. Maybe he looped so hard through fear and came back to this point.
Toshu: Was water always this calm? With no sounds around, it's much more serene. What a new sensation. If I can keep calm and stop getting distracted by sounds and sensations...
Toshu closes his eyes and stays still as he hones his senses. He gets more aware of things than he ever has. And then he senses someone approaching from the surface.
Toshu: ...huh?
reXer: He's down here? It's deep! I'm going to have to drop my things to--
reXer is looking at a screen of Toshu as he's about to jump in when...
Toshu: YAAAH! (slashes at reXer)
reXer: WHOA (gets knocked into the water)

Toshu: ...this is it. This feeling. I just saw a glimpse at what I lacked. It was all in me. I can still progress...
MC: Toshu! Omg reXer! ...wait what
Phone alert!
Phone: New Path discovered. Subject: Toshu. Connectivity: Very High
MC: Oh!
reXer: (gets back up) Ugh, you could swim?
Toshu: ...no, I cannot. But while I was in the water, I could see what I could do. I followed my instincts...and it brought me to you. Training really is good, thank you reXer.
reXer: (stares in shock)
Toshu has accepted his imperfections and strives to pursue perfection.

reXer: ...I wonder if Dad also trained in secret to be a perfect hero.
Toshu: reXer, get up. Will you spar with me some more!?
reXer: ...ugh. I know I don't have room to talk, but damn you have no consideration for anyone, swinging like crazy!
Toshu: O-oh...sorry. I wasn't thinking through what I was doing. Can you stand?
reXer: ...heh. We'll just call this payback from when I hit you in our first match, okay?
Toshu: V-very well. I wasn't that bothered by it...
reXer: Now that that's done, let's do it!
reXer stands back up, weapon ready. Toshu gets ready too. MC's phone shines with a new light.
MC: I think it'll work. Execute!
(click)
reXer: WHAT
Toshu: W-what's going on?
Cerastium: What's happening!?
Shaft: Toshu! That look!

Later
Tournament's back on again! The party is sent to a beach site for their next match.
Toshu: ...
The other team is already there. One's a familiar face.
Flamier: Oh my. MC, Toshu!
MC: Ms. Flamier! / Wow nice dress / Cute!
---
(B) Flamier: Tee hee, I came in casual clothes since I'm off today. Should I have dressed up more? Not that it matters when I transform.
(C) Flamier: Thank you. Maybe I should I come in something less casual?
---
Mafia: You know them, milady?
Wolf: Not that we're holding back if you do!
Merc: Miss, please don't stand too much up front this time! We'll protect you!
Flamier: Oh my, like I've said you don't need to worry so much about me. I'm a hero too. And I have bombs usable near water.
Mafia: No! We've seen how strong you are already!
Wolf: We can't let you get hurt, even if this is a game!
Merc: Yeah!

MC: Are they her bodyguards or something / damn
Toshu: ...huh. Flamier we may normally be allies, but I will not be holding back here.
Flamier: Yes, of course. I'll be doing my best as well.
Wolf: Let's go, lady! Get the transformations on!
Team Flamier transforms!
reXer: We should too. MC.
MC: Right! Execute!
reXer, Shaft, and Cerastium suit up!
Toshu: MC, can you turn me into that form from earlier?
MC: ...it's up! Let's go!
Flamier: Huh? Toshu?
Ta-da! Variant Toshu is a go!
Toshu: Hmm, still feels odd. But it helps me focus.
MC: Success! / Damn, that's good... / Hot...
(BC) Toshu: S-silence! This isn't meant to be a show for you! It's mobility-friendly, but your staring feels awkward!

Flamier: Toshu, that form...
Toshu: ...I have also reconsidered myself and found a new fighting style. That is all.
Flamier: ...I see. I'll be sure to watch how you go with it. Please go easy on me.
Toshu: Heh. Thank you for sparring with me.
Cerastium: I've never seen a hero change suits before...
Shaft: This would be my second. Sometimes I hear heroes fighting while MC around get new forms, so Toshu might be the same deal.
Cerastium: MC? Wow, Observers are so mysterious.
reXer: ...a new fighting style? I didn't know heroes could change appearances...
Toshu: Focus, reXer.
reXer: Yeah, I know. Let's win this, Toshu.
Toshu: ...heh. Let's.
PA System: 3...2...1...match start.
BATTLE START (more happens after)

Flamier: Well done, Toshu. I've already seen how devoted you are to training...but it feels like you've cleared a big wall. There's clearly been a big change within you.
Toshu: ...I saw a glimpse of something in myself I couldn't see alone thanks to my comrades. My outer form may differ greatly, but within it is only beginning to bud...I will tend to it with care.
Flamier: ...good luck. I look forward to seeing you change as a friend and coworker. Good day to you all.
Team Flamier leaves. Toshu stares at the sea.
Toshu: ...
reXer: Toshu? I--
Toshu: ...reXer, let me thank you again. I never thought I could gain a new form from all this, but that and the ability to face my fears has all been thanks to you. I would have been stuck in place otherwise.

reXer: ...so you aren't perfect either.
Toshu: Of course not. It's why I train.
reXer: I thought you were some perfectionist from all that nagging you did.
Toshu: ...hmph. Are you saying I had no room to speak?
reXer: Not really. But...
Toshu: (narrows eyes) ...you are similar to how I used to be, which is why you irked me.
reXer: ...what?
Toshu: (nods) I trained believing being strong was enough, that it was justice...but that is wrong. People who use strength need reason and truth.
reXer: what?
Toshu: Things such as who you use your strength for, whether you are deluding yourself, and whether you are becoming complacent. My burdening everyone in these fights led me to reexamine myself and my righteousness. I tried to not be stubborn...but at some point I strayed from my own justice.
Cerastium: !!

Toshu: What broke me out of my stubbornness was your rashness, and ironically that strange man's beatdown of me...I need to be better.
reXer: ...I'm sorry I called you a nag.
Toshu smiles and snorts as he looks back at the ocean.
Shaft: ...it looks like they've come to an understanding.
MC: Yeah, surprising.
Cerastium: ...
Cerastium thinks about what Toshu said and looks at him and reXer.
Toshu and reXer: (stares at sea)
End of Episode

 

Valentine Snow Fight Episode 3 Part 2 (Abridged)

Jacob (narrating): This happened back when we were both in the Missionaries. It was good times, bad times, and times of throwing hands of love at people. It felt like it went on forever...until it didn't anymore.
Jacob (narrating): I still remember how my hands couldn't reach you. The ground split between us, and you fell right in like in the Bible said its greatest angel did. I have Eden's Tree of Life and Knowledge and somehow it STILL wasn't enough to reach you. But I now know it was hierarchical conceptual fate. The light of my artifact was Uriel's (who by the way doesn't have an Islamic reading of their name unlike the other archangels), Uriel couldn't save the fallen angel, so therefore it couldn't save you.

Present
Shinya: Let's go, Cupid!
Tiger Man: HMM. Shinya is charging in alone! I thought that was kind of stupid, but he's off Bullet Climaxing against the guys surrounding him before they shoot him!
Shinya: We are going for the win this time. Also I'm curious about something now... Cupid, keep firing! We need to draw attent--whoa!
Tezcatlipoca: Hahaha! Hello, Olympus's spare World Representative!
Shinya: ...Tezcatlipoca. It's true my power doesn't work on you.
Tezcatlipoca: Of course! I don't have a body for it to work on. Even if I did, I already gave my heart to someone else! But what do you make of your power to steal hearts and have people give them to you?
Shinya: I didn't want this power. I'd give it up if I could...but still, I have to do this. And I won't yield to you!
Tezcatlipoca: Good! I'll take you on. Let's go to war!
Shinya: Fine. Cupid, double fire!

Elsewhere
Mob A: I can't read him!
Mob B: What kind of sick joke is this!?
Mob C: Sorry, Your Excellency! We--got shot! Retreating!
MC: Okay so we got through the lines earlier, but there's still a ton of them!
Girimekhala: And yet you guys are kicking so much ass! I think I might convert and be a fan!
Jacob: Careful you two. I still sense people around.
Girimekhala: You can? But you're blind!
Jacob: My hands tell me where to send my love and which faces to put it in.
Girimekhala: Whoa. That reminds me, my old master said to go with love and desire instead of enlightenment. He was right!
MC: love seems OP pls nerf / Love! (shrug) / Can it find me too?
(C) Jacob: ...yes. It will look for you wherever you go.

Girimekhala: I haven't been any help!
Jacob: That's not true. Everyone has their roles and--
Girimekhala: It is! I can't even do mine right...
Jacob: ...my apologies for interrupting, but I sense many loveless people ahead. Must be a big ambush.
MC: What now? / So, nothing different. / (wait)
Jacob: Before we were already surrounded, but this time we are GOING to be surrounded. So...we should charge in with our fists of love for the knockout punch!
Girimekhala: 'kay...wait, I can't pull that off with how slow I am!
Jacob: I'll go alone then and create an opening for you two to back me up after that. Okay?
Girimekhala: ...Jacob, am I really no help?
Jacob: Of course not...I'm sorry, I don't have the words to say. Forgive my lack of self-control. I can't hold myself back when fighting together with MC.

MC: That reminds me...why do you care about me so much? What do you remember of me?
Jacob: ...well. It's natural you don't remember, but you need not worry about it. I see love as something you give...not something you seek from another.
MC: I don't really get it, but I get it means a lot to you.
Girimekhala: Wow...you have things you just gotta say, huh. But I can get doing wanting to do something but it not working out right! Let's go! I can at least be your meat shield!
MC: No meat shield! / Let's do it together! / I'm gonna do my best too!
---
(A) Girimekhala: What? Don't worry, I'll do what I can!
---
Girimekhala: Okay, let's do this thing! This time...this time!
Jacob: Yes! They shall see our beliefs as we strike! With love!

Later
Tiger Man: I see something! Jacob is...charging right into enemy territory!
Mob A: There he is! Operation is a go!
Mob B: Fire! We're gonna win this match too!
Mob C: He can't dodge ALL of us!
Tiger Man: ¡Ay dios mio! Jacob is now in a bullet hell game! But with snowballs!
Jacob: Oh this is nothing. I still have love to give as long as I am here!
Yoritomo: Allow me to give you something then, Missionaries Guildmaster.
MC: Wait where'd he come from!? Jacob, look out!
Jacob: It's cool, I don't fall for the same trick twice!
Yoritomo: ...huh, you actually dodged that. You remind me of a certain someone who always ran in the front lines trying to cut down the enemy leader to end things fast. Fine! Soldiers, focus fire on him! Forget the others!
Jacob: You two! Go now!
Girimekhala: O-okay! I can do this!
MC: Let's go! / Full power! / You can't just leave me out of this, Big Bro!
(C) Yoritomo: !! All hands, do not let MC near me!
BATTLE START (more happens after)

Jacob (narrating): There's been so much suffering in Tokyo, but I could keep going like this because I saw you smiling while tumbling to your doom. Yes, you read that right. You were smiling until the very end. I don't know why, but I believe it's because there was love there. I remember it all, even if you don't. And one day...I want to give back all the love I've received.
Present
Jacob: Love Fist!
Mobs: AAAAA (blown away)
Jacob: Let's go!
MC: YEAAAHHH
Yoritomo: Unfortunately for you, only my foolish brother can reach me. I shall cut you down her--
Girimekhala: CHAAARGE! (trips) OH NO (literally snowballs in)
MC: Oh no! / oh this again / ...wait what?
Yoritomo: Wait, what was that Shadow I just saw!?
Jacob: GOT YOU NOW

Tiger Man: Yoritomo is down...THE MISSIONARIES WIN! GAME SET!
Players: SCREAMING
MC: W-we won! / (hug Jacob) / (hug Girimekhala)
---
(B) Jacob: Oh MC you are always filled with love.
(C) Girimekhala: H-hooray! (cracks bones) OH NO ARE YOU OKAY
---
Azazel: Well done everyone. I can't believe that actually worked.
Zabaniya: You were right, Azazel!
Arslan: You could stand to have some doubt, Zabaniya...eh, leave it for now!
Maria: Great work, Girimekhala. How'd you do?
Girimekhala: I didn't do anything again. Jacob did most of the heavy lifting.
Jacob: That's not true. I can't see, but there was something at the end with...
Girimekhala: what?

Shinya: Nice fighting, MC!
MC: You too! How'd it go?
Shinya: I tried. I didn't win...but I didn't lose either? Oh right, I need to thank you. For believing in me. It was kind of fun going all out...I was wondering if it was okay for me to be here at first, been then I found out there were people here who don't like me and won't go easy on me. It sounds weird, but I was happy about that. And I found a new side of myself.
MC: Had a good time with everyone? / Fight me next time / Let's spend time together later?
(A) Shinya: Yes.
(B) Shinya: Haha, go easy on me?
(C) Shinya: What!? W-well if that's what you want!

Shinya: Let's enjoy everything! I need to thank everyone else.
Jacob: A new side of himself, he says? Then maybe with Girimekhala, that was...
Girimekhala: what? ...oh wait someone's calling me! See ya!
Jacob: ...MC. As I've said, I don't have much to say verbally. Have I confused you? I just wanted to give you my thanks, even if you don't remember.
MC: Okay? / I get it, somehow. / T-this is kinda awkward
(A) Jacob: I-I'm sorry. Personally sharing love is the first thing I try to do...
(B) Jacob: I'm so glad!
(C) Jacob: I am aware, just think of it as a me thing. I try not to bother you, so I hope you can simply accept it.

Jacob: Okay, we are 1-1 and have no idea which side you are on for the last game. However that goes, I hope I can fight with you with all my love.
Girimekhala: (walks back) Oh hey, there you are Jacob!
Jacob: What is it?
Girimekhala: The sponsors are calling. There's something after this or whatever. Can you come with?
Jacob: Okay. See you later, MC.
Shennong: Hey Problem Kid! Nice work again out there!
MC: Yeah, but Jacob did the most work here...
Tanetomo: Yes, he did. What nonsense does he do to get like that? What kind of madman charges and wins against several ambushes solo?
Yasuyori: N-now now, it's nice to have a rival.
Tanetomo: It must be nice to be so carefree as a foot soldier. All that thought I put into those formations...
Shennong: Haha, let it go. Just think about the next match. Right now--
Tiger Man: ¡Hola amigos! We're going into the last match scored 1:1! But that's gonna be tomorrow. Now we are having the best sweets and outdoor hot springs! Time to relax!
End of Episode

Valentine Snow Fight Episode 3 Part 1 (Abridged)

Jacob: Let's rush the Warmongers!
Missionaries: ...
MC: what
Maria: May I say something?
Jacob: Of course.
Maria: Isn't this the strategy we took last time?
Jacob: Indeed it is since I can't do any better.
Shocked Missionaries panning shot!
Jacob: The Warmongers are good at organized warfare, so we should respond with what we are best at. And by that, I mean love! Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also! And he was right! They can beat on us all they like, but they will fear us if we charge fearlessly ahead! We will evade their attacks, and punch them with the full force of the Lord!
MC: Who could do that!? / What movie did you walk out of / YEAH
(C) Maria: No MC, don't follow his example!

Angels: YEAAAHHHH
MC: wait what
Azazel: Jacob walks the walk and has punched out all those angels. Many are meatheads who follow might makes right, and Jacob has asserted dominance.
Arslan: Yeah he made a mountain of KOed angels.
Azazel: I suppose the main problem with this plan is that only Jacob can pull it off.
Zabaniya: Perhaps I can suggest an alternative plan for--
Azazel: No, Zabaniya!
Zabaniya: Why?
Azazel: This is a trial for the Missionaries.
Zabaniya: GASP
Azazel: We shall go with this ~~amusing~~ bewildering strategy and win because it will open a new road to love.
Zabaniya: So, we are picking the more difficult path? Fascinating.
Azazel: Let us strive together.
Arslan: Damn, Azazel...
Azazel: Well it is working surprisingly well, isn't it?
MC: ...did this happen last time too?

Shinya: Ahaha...it was mostly like this. I wasn't too fussed about winning, so...
Girimekhala: Me too! Then again, I dunno if I could keep to a plan if we had one. I always trip when I try...
MC: I suck at tactics too... / Let's do better next time, Girimekhala / well, let's just have fun
---
(A) Shinya: Really? Wow, I thought you'd be great since you do so well in events.
(B) Girimekhala: ...yeah!
---
Jacob: Oh! MC, Girimekhala, Shinya! Thanks again for your efforts last time. Let's do even better next time, with even hotter and intense (fists of) love!
MC: You did great too! / Hope to work well with you guys! / Must...shoot...more...
(C) Jacob: I am so glad we can share feelings like this.

Jacob: (gets close) I will throw hands, and this time they shall reach!
MC: TOOCLOSE / (boldly approach)
---
(C) Jacob: (blush) Oh I am so happy we feel the same.
---
MC: Why are you so focused on me? Were we that close? (thinks)
Elsewhere
Tezcatlipoca: (SNEEZE) ...hmm. Maybe it's too cold.
Yoritomo: (shivers) Ouf. I should go warm up.
Hotel again
Jacob: I remember, even if you don't. I may be a normal person born in Tokyo, but this artifact... (summons a light that reaches the heavens)
Shinya: That light!
Jacob: ...MC, I once saw you fall to the earth and--
MC: wait what?

Girimekhala: Jacob! I-I...!
Jacob: ? What is it?
Girimekhala: I'm sorry I messed up that last round! I always choke when it's important!
Jacob: ...please stop blaming yourself. I did all I could and I just happened to lose. It's fine. I'm happy actually that my thoughts and your love came together.
Girimekhala: Jacob! But, I...!
Jacob: Stop. Why don't we punch away your regrets then?
Girimekhala: O-oh. I don't get it, but okay! I'm gonna make this event a success this time!
MC: Yeah! / Let's win! / Do you talk with your fists too...?
Girimekhala: I'm getting excited! Is this what a surge of love feels like?
Shinya: A-ahaha, maybe...? I'm glad you're more optimistic now though.
Tiger Man: (on PA) Strategy time over, amigos! Come on over to the field!

Later
Tiger Man: Round 2, everybody! Good luck to you all, and now the introductions again!
Players: YEEEEAAAAHHHH
Tiger Man: Bueno! Rules are the same, except this time it's a forest field! Bad footing, bad visibility! This oughta be GOOD! Ready? Counting down! 10! ...5! 4! 3! 2! 1! GO GO GO!
MC: YEAH!
Tiger Man: ¡Vamanos! First up is...
Jacob: Love. Listen to my fists!
Tiger Man: It's Jacob again!
Rangers: Target confirmed!
Rangers: Begin the operation!
Rangers: Fire! Keep him away!
Jacob: Oh shit, not bad!
Tiger Man: Look at all that snow focused on him!
MC: Jacob, get back! / Hmm...
Jacob: Thank you for the warning. I got too excited there, how embarrassing.
Shinya: Whoa, that's so many people focusing on Jacob. Such coordination...
Girimekhala: I-is this military tactics!? Mad respect, even if they're ops!
Tiger Man: The Warmongers are taking the lead!

Elsewhere
Tezcatlipoca: Hmph. Nice strategizing, Yoritomo.
Yoritomo: Thank you.
Tezcatlipoca: They're too perfect!
Yoritomo: So you romanticize even the battlefield, General? I just do what I must, even in a game. And here, there are two people who must be cut. You know that much, yes?
Tezcatlipoca: Yes. And how am I supposed to enjoy something we're guaranteed to win!?
Yoritomo: Are we? My brother is over there.
Tezcatlipoca: ...oh? Maybe I CAN enjoy this. If anyone could turn this around, it would be my BRRRROTHER! I should go see him this time!
Yoritomo: You do that. That way.
Tezcatlipoca: HA! There you go, casually sending me off a totally unrelated direction! But okay, I'll play your game!
Yoritomo: Yes, around this time the--oh, he's gone. Oh well, hopefully this formation will give me enough time to take some stomach medicine.
Tiger Man: The Warmongers are focusing on Jacob! But now comes a new squad!

Somewhere Else
Zabaniya: Impressive focus fire tactics. Today is truly illuminating.
Arslan: Haha, stiff. I have to admit it *is* impressive. This is getting fun!
Zabaniya: Yes, I am ashamed at my inability to control myself. Now, what we should do is...
Arslan: Ambush their weaker point. It's all we can do.
Zabaniya: ...very well then.
Bug A: OOF! Ambush, ambush!
Bug B: Calm down! Regroup and--AGH
Tiger Man: Ooh, it's the Missonaries' counterattack!
Arslan: The tides are changing!

Zabaniya: If we can turn this in our favor, we can...Lord Arslan!
Arslan: !?
Tanetomo: Hi. I know what you guys were going to do. Ready to eat slush?
Zabaniya: Tanetomo!
Arslan: Deliberately leaving a hole open to draw in attacks. Impressive strategy!
Yasuyori: Advisor! Stay back, this location makes your gatling gun impractical!
Tanetomo: You make up for that, please. We need a little recklessness in this formation.
Shennong: Haha, yep! We're way too shorthanded to keep them down!
Yasuyori: This will be a good experience. I just need to follow orders.
Tanetomo: Good to see you learned a little bit at least. Let's go.

Commentator's Seat
Tiger Man: ¡Híjole! This is one hot battle, amigos! Such ingenuity! Such indomitability! Keep your eyes peeled! Oh look, something new is happening!
Field
MC: Yeah, we're kinda pinned. At least the trees provide cover?
Jacob: Hmm. Evading them all will prove difficult if this goes on.
Girimekhala: But we can't just sit here! Maybe I'll play decoy and...
Shinya: ...excuse me, may I be the decoy?
MC: WHAT / Really? / ...you don't have to push yourself.
Jacob: Shinya!? I could just push in and...
Girimekhala: N-no, I'll do it! I mean I'm huge! You guys can...
Shinya: Thank you everyone, but please let me do this. I have a plan of course. I should at least buy you some time to get to Yoritomo.

MC: ...alright, I trust you then.
Shinya: I'm having a lot of fun right now, being in the event with everyone and even feeling down about losing. So I want to do my best, so I can smile afterwards. Please go after I do. Let's win this one for sure!
Jacob: ...very well.
Girimekhala: ...damn, you're bold. Mad respect, raise some hell!
Tiger Man: Look, Shinya's coming out alone! Isn't that a bit much!?
Shinya: Are you all having fun? I'd like to know you all better. (Charm activate!)

Mob A: Oh no, I'm crushing so hard! The advisor even warned us against this!
Mob B: That smile is blinding me...
Mob C: S-Shinya! Just hearing your name excites me!
Shinya: Sorry, please lose to me. And to think I'm a Charming Flower...I've always hated this power, but I feel I can face it to some extent if you say you can hate me, Tanetomo. Cupid, let's go!
MC: Let's go guys! / Good luck, Shinya!
---
(C) Shinya: :)
---
Jacob: Love!
Girimekhala: We can't stop here!
Jacob: I finally stand alongside you MC. This match starts here!
End of Episode half

Live A Hero Virtual Fest Royale Episode 4 (Abridged)

??? (narrating): When Dad got retgone I went looking for proof he existed. I couldn't find much of ANYTHING until I came across his trophies.
???: Why can't anyone remember him?
??? (narrating): I thought I was going crazy, like maybe my dad wasn't my dad. But then I remember hearing the only people who remember people no one else can were heroes or Observers. If I were a hero, then things would be fine. Except I never transformed before. If I were an Observer...my life would be over, so I couldn't ask anyone about my dad. I had to suffer alone.
???: ...
??? (narrating): And then on my birthday I got a message from my father that lead to a login screen.
???: ...how'd I get in? I couldn't find the password anywhere.

??? (narrating): The login was for a game database in development. And there was also his avatar and weapon.
???: Why'd Dad leave me his password?
??? (narrating): I touched the avatar and the giant ass weapon bigger than I was. A message popped up in front of it saying "Happy Birthday."
???: Dad...oh right, I can use this...
??? (narrating): I can be Dad and make the world think he's come back. Then it won't be only me who remembers him! I tuned the avatar so I could use it easier and signed up for a bunch of game events to make his comeback news. And then the game in development finished up and became the game the O-1 Hero Grand Prix started up.
???: A participation request for "reXer"? Oh, so heroes and Observers remember him...
??? (narrating): There won't be a better chance for reXer's comeback. I want the whole world to remember him, his dashing looks, and his great accomplishments. Didn't take long for me to get in after deciding that reXer would be there.

Title Card: reXer's Identity

Present
reXer: ...
Cerastium throws healing potions at reXer.
MC: It's just like magic! Do we need a doctor?
Cerastium: Wow, that fixed up most of the damage. Even his fur is back to normal. If we were in reality we'd have to go to a hospital.
reXer: If I lost all my HP, I'd get kicked out of the game...and the whole competition.
Toshu: What would happen to the teams of the people kicked out like that?
Shaft: The manual says the team keeps going unless we lose more than half the team.
reXer: Yeah. So why'd you save me? I'm a loose cannon, so wouldn't it have been easier for you guys to let me die out of the game?
Toshu: What?
reXer: I'm not THAT stupid. I know how to work in a team...but I kept doing what I did trying to win.
reXer looks calm, but his hands are shaking a little.
reXer: I wanna apologize for what I did! But...please don't abandon me.
reXer is shaking all over.
MC: It's okay, we won't. Right guys?

The party agrees.
reXer: Guys? Really...?
Cerastium: ...we're a team. We won't just ditch you. (puts away healing potion)
Cerastium: You're strong enough to dominate the battles without us, but the other guy this time was stronger. That's all. You weren't eliminated, so there's no need to be so down.
reXer: (stares in gamer)
Cerastium: Okay so maybe the way you work probably isn't going to gel with the party that well. So tell us about your feelings and desires. Actually tell us all about you!
reXer: Me?
Cerastium: Yes. We're a team after all, so we need to know about each other. I moved to know you better, help you achieve your goals.
reXer: what...?
Cerastium: My weapon's a shield, a weapon I gave myself to protect people for the sake of justice. Protecting people so we can win and move forward is my job. Back then when I realized was I was doing, I was already running in to save you. If you're so focused on winning, I feel that might have been your brand of justice. (stares at hand)
reXer: Cerastium...
Cerastium: We're friends now, aren't we?
MC: Is that what justice is to you?

Cerastium: ...I don't know. I just know it's what I want to do.
Shaft: Ceras...is there some reason you care so much about your shield and justice?
Cerastium: (cocks head) ...I guess I should explain myself first if I want to ask about others. Will you all listen? Especially you MC, since you're close to Justice?
MC: Okay!
Cerastium: ...I used to have a friend that I thought was way stronger than me. But then she got eaten by a Monster in front of me.
reXer: !!
Cerastium: She was stronger and more experienced...and she had even stronger beliefs. I admired everything about her and tried to be like her, but I wasn't able to do anything when a Monster was in front of me. I thought it was all over, but then someone saved me. It was Justice...though I'm not surprised he doesn't seem to remember me. I was saved...but I was frustrated by my inability to do anything. It's why I hold my shield now. To protect people.
MC: Oh...isn't that your justice then?

Cerastium: *!?* ...oh, it might be. Those thoughts became a foundation for me at some point, but I still feel like my justice is elsewhere. I can't explain it well though. *(smiles after looking at MC and reXer)*
Cerastium: ...still, I think I saw a bit of it. Maybe it's here. And you're the one who showed me that, reXer. Thank you. And MC, thank you for shining a light on my hopes and pushing me forward.
MC: I didn't do much / I'm a famous Operator! / I just thought you wanted to do that
reXer: ...
Toshu: Hmph. What help is this rash fool?
MC: WOW RUDE

Toshu: I am not rejecting him or the like. I was like that too once when I was younger. Chasing your dreams so hard means you have room to mature, which I like. I can't say how long it will take him though.
Shaft: As an athlete, I think focusing entirely on winning is the right idea. Being reckless and getting experience is how you grow. And it's how I learned too.
reXer: (looks at everyone's faces, then looks down) ...guys, I...
Toshu: reXer. Your body and weapon aren't really yours, are they?
reXer: !!
MC: what?
Toshu: A hero's weapon comes from the future they wish for, so you automatically know how to use it. I could see that wasn't the case for you though.
Flashback!
reXer: Oh no it didn't work!
Toshu: (Hmm...)

Present
Toshu: You seem unable to use your weapon with skill. From what Shaft said, reXer doesn't sound like a new hero.
reXer: ...
Toshu: The bodies we see here are copies, not our real bodies. Which means a stranger could join in pretending to be the hero reXer--
reXer: I'm not some stranger.
reXer looks angry in a way he hasn't shown before.
reXer: This avatar is...my dad's.
Party reaction shot!
NC: what?

reXer: ...I didn't expect it to come out like this. (looks serious like he's given in)
reXer: This avatar is something I borrowed from my dad, who was the hero reXer. He's gone now, and I borrowed this to join the event. I'm...just a gamer.
Toshu: You're not a hero? Why are you here then?
reXer: ...because it's a game. A game is the only place I can be a hero. I'm just borrowing Dad's avatar and controlling his body. (shrugs)
reXer: The agency knows who I really am. I'm contracted with them as a mascot and pro gamer instead of a hero.
MC: what?
reXer: PR stuff. I only go to gaming events but never to anything offline. I don't have any experience fighting out there.
Cerastium: B-but you insisted so hard on being on the front here!
reXer: Because I'm a pro gamer. If I can't win, how can I work? If I know the controls, I can just practice but... (looks away) maybe challenging real heroes is too much. I never thought anyone would kick my ass so hard.

Quick popup flashback of Red?
reXer: Maybe experience makes that much of a difference?
Toshu: ...not always. I'm still training so I can move the way I see myself doing in my mind, so here you are doing better than I am in my view.
reXer: ...maybe only a little more? But getting my ass handed to me like that's made me a little nervous. Like you guys are moving in on my best skills. (looks up)
reXer: Offline, no matter how hard I try I can't be like Dad. When I borrow his avatar, I do want to win at everything though. I wanted to be great at things, just like he did...but reality's harsh. Dad's weapon just doesn't work right for me even with my little tricks.
Flashback!
reXer: AX ATTACK!
Rutilix: Oh no! But I can dodge this!
reXer: Oh no I misread the distance!

Present
Toshu: Oh that makes sense.
reXer: (scratches head) Why won't it work!? Why am I not a real hero!? If I can't do anything right in a game, what do I even have!?
Sympathetic party reaction shot!
MC: reXer... / don't say you have nothing / ...
Shaft: ...I don't think that's true. Not at all! (loudly stands up)
reXer: Shaft...?

Shaft: ...sorry for yelling. But you're the way you are now because of what you had and developed in the past, right? Even if you're behind everyone else and far away from your goal, what you had wasn't nothing.
reXer: ...maybe.
Shaft: ...I quit being a hero once. Retiring as a rugby player and becoming a space taxi driver is good, but I wasn't very good at it and couldn't transfer any skills over...I kept thinking "what was I doing?"
Shaft: (looks at MC) And then I met MC.
MC: what? / oh right that time
Shaft: I happened to get pulled into a car chase with a criminal at the time. I thought it was a huge disaster at first honestly, but everyone I met then taught me that I still had what I developed before I changed jobs. At some point, my rugby, hero, and space taxi driver experiences all came together before I knew it.
Space Taxi Chasers flashback!
Shaft: I can see where to go!
Alchiba: What!? There's like 8 space trucks here!
Later in Space Taxi Chasers flashback
Kalaski: We're surrounded!
Mokdai: That space truck is U-turning right at us!
Shaft: Rugby experience is here to save the day!

Present
Shaft: I was able to help because there was a time I wasn't a hero. It felt great making it happen, and I wanted to do more that I was able to do. Then I made my comeback as a hero.
reXer: Shaft...
Shaft: When I stopped being a hero, I kept training my rugby intuition and driving skills. It all came together that incident into something only I could do. It was MC and everyone else who taught me that, and I keep them dear in my heart. (smiles)
Shaft: That's how I came back as a hero and stay as one. Maybe that's my justice.
MC: Shaft...!
Cerastium: *(gasp)*
Shaft: I think you must have something too, reXer. So don't give up and think you have nothing.
reXer: Oh...

Toshu: ...did you see how Shaft moved in that battle? He used his obstacle and enemy detection abilities to eliminate them even before you started moving on your own. Same for Cerastium's defense and MC's commands. All of it centered on you.
reXer: Oh...
Toshu: You moved surprisingly well even when footing was terrible and when you were surrounded. If you can work with us, you can discover its true worth. And considering that last battle, maybe your skills were used in a way you didn't realize? You charging in alone meant the rest of us didn't get so...thoroughly crushed.
MC: I'm sure there's something only you can do, reXer.
reXer: Those were...Dad's tactics. He'd always be up front to tank attacks. That wasn't my plan...but maybe that's something I developed. (stares at hand)
reXer: I still haven't found Dad's reXer, but maybe... if it's in me and I connected it to those results...maybe that's fine.
reXer slightly smiles his own smile.
Cerastium: A justice possible because of who you are, huh...?
End of Episode

Valentine Snow Fight Episode 2 Part 2 (Abridged)

Tanetomo (narrating): My earliest memory is in Hakone Village. Much snow, very bright. A traitor or courtier had my whole family killed, my father I never got to saw died in a fight, my mother who was a concubine came here and then had me. We had to hide who we were, so I studied dengaku performance to get revenge.
Tanetomo (narrating): And then I did get revenge! By assassination plot via honey trap. And then I didn't have anything to live for anymore. I never really chose to live my life the way it turned out, it just happened that way because of circumstances.
Tanetomo (narrating): Can someone give my life meaning and give me orders, please? I can dance, but only if you order me to. Or you could just kill me now. That works too.

Present
Tanetomo: See how harsh the soldier life is, Warmonger style!
Shinya: So...you don't like me.
Tanetomo: I serve as a sword for my lord and I cannot waver personally.
Shinya: ...thank you. Oh, sorry for saying something weird. I'm starting to feel like I'm participating like everyone else now.
Tanetomo: I see you're good at confusing people! Now get shot like a good boy and give me a point!
Shinya: I-I'll do my best! Cupid!
Tiger Man: FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT
Tanetomo: Tee hee, you sure move a lot for someone who didn't move to shoot down your targets.
Shinya: U-um, I'm not that good at moving around!
Tanetomo: That was sarcasm!
Shinya: ...Cupid!
Tanetomo: Oh no, I'm getting cross fired!
MC: Tanetomo! (runs closer)

Yasuyori: ADVISOOOOR
Tiger Man: Whoa, Yasuyori just chump blocked for Tanetomo!
Tanetomo: ...not bad, Shinya. But WE are better. (blapblapblap)
Shinya: Ah! Aww, I lost. Sorry everybody.
Tiger Man: ¡Híjole! Tanetomo turnabout!
Tanetomo: (sigh) You've never changed at all, Yasuyori. Well if you want to die for me, go ahead.
Yasuyori: You're right to be mad...but I'll do the same thing again next time.
Tanetomo: ...ugh. What do you think, MC?
MC: I agree with Yasuyori / He probably just did it without thinking / dunno

Tanetomo: ...both of you? Fine, I'll say this. If you're a pawn in war, you have your own role to play. I mean, Role. If you're dying to protect me, go open a hole for me. What's the point of shielding a fellow soldier instead of someone more valuable? As advisor, I will abandon you if it comes to it, which is why I don't mind making you fall for me. At least get that through your head, thank you. And stop letting fake feelings push you to action.
MC: Okay, Yasuyori's turn to talk!
Yasuyori: ...I'm too dumb to make plans, so I act according to how my heart feels.
Tanetomo: ...are you saying it's not worth manipulating you? Fool.
Shinya: (gets up) Whew, nice fight. You did great, and it was enlightening.
MC: Nice fight, Shinya! You okay?

Shinya: Thank you, MC. It was fun, but a little frustrating. I'm taking archery seriously so I'm getting into this more than I expected. So can I say something, Tanetomo? We can't live alone, like how I'd die without Cupid. So I always thank him for being with me. You can just thank Yasuyori too...if he chose to do what he did himself.
Tanetomo: !? ...hahahaha! Okay you got me...thank you Yasuyori, MC. And I'm going to get you for this, Shinya. Okay, it should be time for him to arrive soon. Don't forget to do your part.
MC: Got it! / Love shot! / I'm not confident about this...
---
(C) Tanetomo: What? You can't possibly be saying you're scared now, are you?
---
Tanetomo: We're winning, but we can't be sure with him running around. We either knock him out, or less ideally time him out to win...here he comes!

BAM
Jacob: MC! There you are! I found you even though I'm blind!
Tanetomo: Taking initiative to shoot!
MC: Thanks Tanetomo! Did we win!?
Jacob: Hmm, baiting me with MC and trying to go for a knockout blow? Such love. But... (Mind's Eye activate!) Boxer Punch!
Tanetomo: OH NO
Tiger Man: Oooh, Tanetomo is out! Is Jacob unstoppable!?
Jacob: Tanetomo your snow gun is lovely. But I'm sorry my eyes can only see one thing (even though they can't see).

MC: Tanetomo! / welp
---
(A) Tanetomo: What is this absurd strength? You mock modern tactics? It's like you are a warrior from Myth with a capital M.
---
Jacob: I've exchanged love (and fists) with many, yet I keep thinking about you. Forgive me, I cannot contain myself.
MC: o-okay / WHY / I accept your love!
---
(B) Jacob: Because I remember your old love.
(C) Jacob: Let us let our hands speak, and please take my love.
---
Jacob: Okay now. FIGHT!
BATTLE START (more happens after)

Jacob: Ahh, is this bliss? I wish this could last forever.
MC: I am struggling to hang in there!
Girimekhala: JACOB I AM HERE TO HELP
Jacob: Wait, what!? No!
Girimekhala: Everyone told me not to but I wanna help! Bang bang!
MC: Oh no, reinforcements!
Yoritomo: Okay now is a good time.
Jacob: OH SHIT, Girimekhala, evasive maneuvers!
Girimekhala: What? (trips) AAAAAA
Jacob: No not this way!
Yoritomo: All according to keikaku. (fires launcher)
MC: WHAT
Jacob: FUCK
Girimekhala: AAAAAA
Tiger Man: Ay dios mio... Team Warmongers win!
Players: SCREAMING

MC: Oh my god we won! / (Hi-five!) / (Hug!)
---
(B) Yoritomo: What tengu sorcery are you trying to do?
(C) Yoritomo: How did this happen, I expected us being on the same team wo--STOPSTOPTOOCLOSE! I see your plot to turn me into a pretzel!
---
Yoritomo: ...why are you so happy? This is no great surprise. I said everyone should act freely, which means this would turn into a free for all. That in turn means only the strong would be left eventually, which gives me free reign to move even if remembering how the Missionaries moved gives me chills. I figured Tanetomo would try to set you up, and then I just had to wait.
MC: ...okay? / So if I lost...? / ...you saw everything coming?
(A) Yoritomo: Stay silent if you don't understand, you give me PTSD flashbacks.
(B) Yoritomo: Impossible Yoshitsune MC. I'd stop having ulcers if I knew where your limits were.
(C) Yoritomo: I'll never tell.

Yoritomo: ...we're on opposite sides next. My stomach is going to kill me, but it's better than having you with us. MC, we Warmongers only do what we must. We win without extravagance or disdaining our enemies. If you wish to enjoy the competition, go speak to the organizer and relief representative, although I heard they lost as soon as the first game started. Okay bye now. Fingers crossed we win without ever having to see you.
Shennong: Hey Problem Kid, how's it feel to be on the winning side?
MC: Nice, except for Yoritomo killstealing at the end.
Shennong: Ha! But I get you. His Majesty's mean like that.
Tanetomo: To deceive your enemies, first deceive your allies and all that. How far does his discerning eye see...? Frightening.
Yasuyori: I'm bad with plans so this time my orders were easy.
Tanetomo: We need to do a debriefing of your shameful performance and make sure you don't fall for an enemy again.
Yasuyori: Oh no!
MC: Go easy on him... / Put the screws to him. / STEP ON ME TOO
(A) Tanetomo: Hmm. Maybe if you two remember who you should be focusing your attentions on.
(B) Tanetomo: You hear that? MC agrees, so we should take our time on that.
Yasuyori: What did I do to you!?
(C) Tanetomo: Well if that's what you want, okay!

Tiger Man: Hey amigos! It's time for prepping the second match, so get to your strategy briefings!
Shennong: Oh it's time. Let's all have fun, okay?
Tanetomo: Don't think you'll win. His Excellency has ordered us to do so.
Yasuyori: I'll do my best!
MC: Bye!
Later
MC: Okay so the Missionaries meeting should be around here...
Girimekhala: Hey MC, you're on our side again! I'll do better next time!
Azazel: Thank you for waiting everyone, time to begin.
MC: Okay! Last time it didn't go on for long so I'm weirdly excited for this one!
Jacob: Everyone, I recommend we go for one particular strategy. This is a gun fight, so clearly we must charge them!
Missionaries: ...
MC: ...what
Jacob: :)
End of Episode