Jurassic Summer Vacation Episode 4 Part 3 (Abridged)

The rest of the party is rehearsing when they notice Cipactli coming in.
Cipactli: Um...
Cipactli is worried about how the party will react, but the others come running up!
Macroich: You okay? ...well it's fine if you aren't.
Boogeyman: I have so many things to say, but first...welcome back.
Hecate: Then I'LL say them! Why didn't you say anything since we're working together to make this play happen!? Don't you trust us...?
Cipactli ends up laughing at how everyone's reactions don't include fear of him.
Hecate: WHAT
Cipactli: ...sorry, I just wasn't brave enough.
Macroich: Hey Hecate, leave it at that. Let's be happy he came back! In fact, let's stop rehearsal for today and have a party!
MC: Cool! Summer Youth™ beach party! / you just want to party don't you

Leib: What? Show time's only in a week.
Macroich: Yeah, which is why we take today off and focus in the rest of that time. Let's deepen our bonds and make the musical a great one!
Cipactli: ...I guess that's fine.
Leib: Aww, you falling in love with Youth™ or something?
MC: You are such an annoying dork / You can't let your guard down around him! / (step between Leib and Cipactli)
Welp, summer party time! Seven days remaining...
Cipactli: Let's play beach volleyball then! Leib, go join some other team I'm not on!
Leib: Nah, I'm just watching as a chaperone so--hey let go!
Cipactli wraps his tail around Leib and tosses him into the water.
Leib: I'll GET YOU FOR THIS

Later
Macroich: Boogeyman, over there!
Boogeyman: Got it! ...whoo~ I got you!
Boogeyman catches a fish with his bare hands!
Boogeyman: Oh gosh this is at least 1m long! Time to get more!
MC: WHAT / is that even edible / ooh, nice bod
Cipactli: Every fish here is delicious and nutritious!
Hecate: I'll cook!
Cipactli: You can cook? Wow, I didn't know you were so domestic.
Hecate: Rude! I'm the one who taught Barguest housework. So I get messy and careless sometimes. I can do it if I focus!
Leib: Yeah she's good. She's made food at the labs a lot before, just watch out for anything fishy she might put in.
MC: Wow. I wanna eat something you made, Hecate / Ah, because she's been forever alone...
---
(AB) Hecate: Heh, that's nothing to a lady and author like me! And since I've been single so long I've had to do these things myself...
(C) Hecate: Stop saying the quiet part out loud! I mean it's true, but still...
---
Macroich: You can cook, Hecate!? Cool!
Hecate: Oof. Don't be happy, don't be happy, he's just like that...
Boogeyman: Guys, help!
And so the party runs over to help haul in the fish.

Later
Hecate is cooking.
Hecate: Tee hee, something's gonna happen all the way out here, by the beach and away from the city. Must make some high stamina foods...
Things look good, even with the sus things she's sticking in.
Macroich: Hey Hecate, look at this rhinoceros beetle I found! Also I got mountain veggies and mushrooms down here like you told me to!
Boogeyman: I'm sorry, I tried to stop him from catching that...
Hecate: R-right, insects are edible, but most people wouldn't want to eat them...
Macroich: Oh! Sorry I wasn't thinking...
Hecate: Still, thanks for the mushrooms! This one will perk you right up.

Leib is watching.
Leib: Shouldn't somebody stop them? I don't think we should let them cook.
MC: It'll be okay. Maybe. / Hmm. Oh, I got an idea! How about we take that mushroom and go home?
Leib: Welp, how about we all sit down until food's ready? Come on, it'll be like this until night time so you may as well sit next to me.
Cipactli flops in between MC and Leib.
Cipactli: You can lie on my belly, MC! And you can use my tail to cover yourself!
Leib: Ooh, nice and cool. Zzz...
Cipactli: MC is my buddy so of course we eat and sleep together...but I'm okay with letting you join us, Leib.
Leib: So he says. Come on, MC.
The rest of the party is staring.
Macroich: Hey guys, let me join!
Hecate: I can't believe something happened between them while I wasn't looking!
Boogeyman: ...Hecate, the pot is boiling over.
Hecate: OH NO WHY DIDN'T YOU SAY SO

Later
Macroich: Whew, that was fun! Such is Youth™!
Hecate: I had fun too! I'd normally never be doing this at the beach.
Boogeyman: I feel like a kid again, haha.
Leib: Tomorrow is going to hurt like a bitch...
MC: Yeah, it's been a big day. Did you have fun, Cipactli? Let's do this again after the show's over.
Cipactli: I...also had fun. It's like I'm having the fun younger years I never had.
Hecate: I should be thanking you for all these experiences I'd usually never get, Cipactli. Summer is a lie to otakus like me...
Boogeyman: If I were still bummed about my administrative leave, I wouldn't have been able to enjoy all this either.
Leib: Uh guys, summer hasn't actually ended yet, you know?
Macroich: Yeah, this summer we're going to have the best musical performance of Youth™!

Everyone is lying down and looking at the starry sky. Somehow.
Cipactli: ...to be honest, I'm still not ready to stand in front of the audience as Cipactli. But I still want to show people the performance we're putting together.
Macroich: We'll respect your choices.
Boogeyman: Let me add that it's okay to be scared. Fear is what opens hearts to one another. The audience will see it when they see you perform.
MC: Just one week, huh? Kinda nerve wracking. Let's make it the best show ever!
Cipactli: Heh, I really have nothing to say to you guys!
Sea sparkles dance in the sky...which would imply it's water up there or something. Whatever, their presence blesses the rehearsal's restart.

Rehearsal!
MC and Cipactli have been called over to the lake by the wyverns dinosaurs.
Cipactli: Are they fighting again? It better not be something stupid if they asked for you to come too.
MC: What could it be? / It's probably important / It's things like that that scares them.
Wyverns dinosaurs start talking to MC and Cipactli when they get there.
Red: Here! We made soft seats for you.
Yellow: Would you like a drink, great spouse?
MC: excuse me what / uhh, thanks
Red: Oh wait did you not get that far? Then let me tell you something cool about him!
Cipactli: WHAT SHUT UP YOU

Red: Oh he's kind King Cipactli~♪ The great King Cipactli~♪ They say he was the first lizard ever~♪
The wyverns dinos crowd around Cipactli!
Blue: Did the volcano blow its top~?♪
Green: Or did the rain just stop~?♪
Purple: He'll fix it right up, like he was a wizard~♪
Yellow: Hey you sing too, Schrodinger's Gendered Spouse!
MC: Okay! / fiiiine / stop pushing!
Purple: We're big happy chappies, ready to make some flappies~♪
MC: Oh the great kind Cipactli~♪ He showed up and saved me~♪ / Oh great Cipactli~♪ He's such a big cutie~♪
(C) Cipactli: U-uh...y-you're...cute too.

Red: Good, keep it up!
Yellow: Ohhh, when I was little, he saved me from a falling tree~♪
Red: dude lame come up with something better
Yellow: But it's true!
Red: I guess. Moving on!
Purple: Ohhhh, the great and kind Cipactli~♪
Yellow: We could say exactly~♪ That his strength is his heart~♪
Cipactli: ARE YOU DONE YET
Song over, the wyverns dinos fly off!
MC: Aww, that was fun... well they weren't really afraid of you. If anything, they admired you.
Cipactli: ...but I barely ever talked to them and they never did this before. If anything's changed, it's you being here.
MC: Well, how about talking with them next time and becoming friends? We could go now to apologize for scaring them.
Cipactli: ...later. It's cold, let's go home.

Time passes in this partial Avatar ripoff except without a hamhanded director fumbling a message as MC still hasn't told Cipactli about the rest of the search party and their reason for being there!
MC: Hmm...it'd be nice to just stay like this, but I still have my orders.
Cipactli: Hi, I'm going hunting. You want fish or meat? I'll also get some nice fruit for dessert!
MC: Okay I'll wait here. Bye!
A chance to escape! Cipactli's started leaving MC alone at times now that he isn't worried about them running away as much. And well, MC hasn't chosen to run yet.
MC: why tho? would he be sad if I left? Am I falling for him...?

Suddenly a hug!
Hecate: Oh my god MC you're okay!
Leib: Lemme look at you. You hurt anywhere?
The search party is here! Leib checks MC and approves of the first aid treatment they got.
Leib: Wow, you did this yourself? Maybe you'd do good as a medic.
Hecate: I've been so worried I couldn't sleep!
Macroich: Look, they're okay just like I said! MC isn't that weak!
Boogeyman: It's still your fault MC got kidnapped.
Macroich: Oh...right. I should've done better!
MC: Sorry to worry you Hecate / Sorry for the trouble, Commander / Thank you for looking for me
Boogeyman: Well you're good and this is enemy home turf. Let's get out of here.
Macroich carries MC on his back and heads out.
MC: (I wanted to say goodbye, but sorry Cipactli. I don't want to fight you...)

Later
Cipactli: I'm back!
MC is gone! And a couple of wyverns dinos are here instead!
Red: Boss! Our bros got ganked!
Yellow: You're supposed to call him King you dumbass!
Red: NO U
Cipactli: SILENCE! Now tell me what happened and make it quick.
The wyverns dinos are scared!
Red: These non scaly weirdos whacked our buddies!
Yellow: Help!
Cipactli glares at the direction MC probably went off in.
End of Episode

Jurassic Summer Vacation Episode 4 Part 2 (Abridged)

Macroich: Okay, let's practice adlibbing! Being adaptable to things changing is important, especially when all your flames turn up in the same place and start fighting each other! Or band together to beat you for jumping into so many beds!
MC: Okay! / Come at me bro! / Can I do this...?
Macroich: That's what practice is for! The theme of the day is Youth™!
Macroich signals the start of things, gets into character, and grabs MC's hand(s).
Macroich: MC, am I not good enough for you!? Did you want to go more than one round a night!?
MC: stop being like this / Uhh... / No, too much!
(AB) Macroich: I swear on my sword you're the only one in my heart! ...my physical attentions? Uh, let's not talk about that.
(C) Macroich: Are other people telling you things? Don't worry, you're the only one I love with my heart.

Macroich: I thought I became the perfect man for you. Was I wrong? I've got strength and experience, and I'm still not number one for you?
Wow he seems legit.
MC: Um, you're still acting right?
Macroich: Yep! I'm always--
Hecate: Oh my god stop flirting you guys and listen!
Barguest: Imix is in the news now!
MC: o-oh no / what? / totally just acting practice okay?
Hecate and Barguest show Macroich and MC a news article on the phone! It says "Imix is Cipactli, the Kaiju that Almost Destroyed a World"!

Elsewhere
Agents: Oh my god is it true Imix really is the monster Cipactli!? Is the theater group deliberately hiding this? Is Tokyo in danger now? The public needs to know!
Oscar comes out of the Yurakucho Opera House.
Oscar: Aww, so many people came to see me today! Let me explain how totally unrelated to all this we are!
Christine: Actually could you not, Guildmaster? You'll just make the internet blow up if you try to explain.
Oscar: But lying is my thing! Wouldn't that make me the most appropriate person to talk to anyone looking for hot scoops and scandals on our actors?
Agents: What's that supposed to mean!?

Christine smiles.
Christine: It is impressive how you always try to stand out the most in times like these with your irony and determination. Barguest, could you shove the guildmaster underground where he can't talk to the press?
Barguest: ...okay. I'll tie him up in chains too. (starts dragging Oscar away)
Oscar: Hello I am supposed to be the boss here. Quick, turn me to the right! ...hello? Hey how about I give you a pay bonus? Hello???
Christine relaxes a little with Oscar gone, then turns to the press.
Christine: Excuse that little moment, I shall explain in his place. Except I can't say very much h--
Agents: Cipactli isn't going to school at the moment, but if he flips out is this theater group going to pay for damages? Is that monster really under control?
Christine: Excuse me I am trying to speak. Also, please stop referring to one of our members as a monster, thank you.
Agents: What are you guys planning to use him for? Do you know that there are tons of rumors about him? Are Imix and Cipactli really the same person? How can a heartless--
Christine: Heartless? How cruel of you...

Christine cries. The agents stop talking and focus the cameras and mics on her. The pen is mightier than the sword, and in this day and age, the video is mightier than the pen. Social engineering! Also Barguest comes back now.
Barguest: Oh my god, Christine! What'd they say to you!?
Christine: ...I just act as an actress, like always. A chandelier should fall on the rude and mannerless, don't you agree?
Barguest: Holy shite calm down, Christine!
Christine: I have my sore spots too, you know.
Barguest: YOU'RE GONNA MAKE THINGS WORSE FOR IMIX
The agents start making noise again. Leib appears and stops Christine.
Leib: Okay, that's enough out of you. I'll handle this.
Christine: ...Leib, why are you here?
Leib hands out posters for Cipactli the Musical to the press. More crowd noises.
Leib: If you people have time for dumb questions, come back in a week to watch this. You'll get your answers there.

Cipactli's Underground Home Area
Macroich and MC watched the live news.
Hecate: Okay Leib made the press go away, but isn't a week too soon?
Boogeyman: Yeah, we're still only partway through rehearsal, and Imix Cipactli isn't showing himself...
Cipactli's been hiding somewhere down here since the media incident.
Macroich: All we can do is believe and wait. If he won't go on stage, we'll just have to do it all and show who he is ourselves!
Hecate and Boogeyman look worried but nod.
Hecate: ...right, I can't let this fail either.
Boogeyman: Me too. I promised the children a show.
Macroich: Let's practice then!

Later MC went to look for Cipactli. He was inside a giant hollow tree in a fetal position, with a net covering the exit. He also saw the news video.
MC: ...feeling better? How about...we go back to everyone and rehearse?
Cipactli grabs MC for a big hug. PTSD flashback!
Mobs: MONSTER
Present
Cipactli: They know my kind side, but the terror towards predators...towards kaiju is instinctual. Sure, they'll welcome me back...but if anything happened to them my persona could never take it.
MC: But Leib, Christine, and the Entertainers know you and haven't changed towards you.
Cipactli: ...the Entertainers all have a screw loose at least. Leib...has a philosophical look on things like he's lived a bunch of lives. He's weird. But...I've caused trouble for them and the theater. I've no place in El Dorado or Tokyo.
MC: That's not true. None of us feel that way, and the play is something you've made yourself.
Cipactli: MC...
Cipactli knows that the Entertainers won't sell him out and that Leib spoke up for his sake.
MC: Come on, let's go.
Cipactli has a Quetzalcoatl trying to take Cipactli outside flashback!

Leib: Ugh, THIS was where you were this time? Hardly anyone is more of a shut in than I am. Is MC there too, or are they slacking off on Tamer duty?
Leib acts like MC isn't there.
Leib: Well cool, now I don't have to worry about them hearing something embarrassing. Anyways, I'm not here to tell you to come back. I think it'd be better if you did, but yeah. Show time's in a week, the rest of us will be rehearsing. If you can't get out there yourself, the rest of us can step in and handle it. It's a pain in the ass, but sometimes something big at work comes at you with no one else to pass it to. Just like life. Don't worry about the musical...but it'd REALLY help if you were there. Hecate and Boogeyman are trying out your advice...oops I guess I did just tell you to come back. I tend to nag if I start talking for a while.
Leib takes a puff of his cig.

Leib: Okay I guess I'll dump my backstory here. So I used to be stuck with the role of deciding who lives or dies in the forest. I saved someone once, and they got all pissy asking me why. And then another time I saved someone else and whoops that somehow caused a massive loss of life. I didn't know what to really do anymore, and what I did seemed meaningless.
Cipactli: Leib, did you also come to Tokyo to...?
Leib: I tried living my life out of the spotlight like you're doing now. I finally get out of the woods and then I shut myself up and fall into the same role again. Funny, huh?
Leib thinks about the time he met someone similar to himself in Ueno, sitting in a cage. How would his life be if he didn't meet him then?
Leib: There's only one role of mine in the world, but when I got out there I found out there's people like me. And I found people around me like Cu Sith and MC who jive with me, so that's awesome. Here I was supposed to be a jackass putting up walls, but there's people who'll smash through them to try bringing me out without me saying anything.
Leib sounds happy.
Leib: Thanks to them, I've gotten a little more optimistic and feel like looking out for them. I'm not just a job dumping senpai, I can do another role too. You're lucky like me, and we've got similar people coming together here. So recap: it's true there's a replacement for you, but we want you to come stand up here.
MC: (too much awkward, gotta talk) Love you too Senpai! / We already think that

Leib: Oh god you heard all that!?
Cipactli: We're even now. Always make sure there's no one else listening in!
Leib: MC, get out here so I can kick your ass!
MC: Hey you just started rambling / I couldn't find a place to come out... / I'mma stay in here!
The plant wall breaks apart.
Leib: Oh that was fast. I figured you were gonna pity yourself for a while longer.
Cipactli: Hmph, someone was going to do it anyways eventually like you said.
MC: Okay that's nice and all, but now!? Okay I'm heading off--
Leib: Nope, you don't just get to walk off with that much blackmail on your hands.
Suddenly a text on Leib's phone! He snorts at it and shows it to Cipactli.
Pazuzu: I saw the news. Tell the big lizard I'll help any way I can.
Hastur: Hey, I could destroy Tokyo too if I wanted to! Don't forget that!
Yuma: Cipactli are you okay?
Alp: You're my buddy rival, so you better not let this get you down!
Leib: You see? There's still people out there who aren't afraid of you. Plenty of them were feared in their home worlds. Come on, let's put that show on and shut people up.
MC: If you're afraid to be up there alone, we're with you too.
Cipactli: ...they're strong. Thanks MC, Leib.
Leib: Well we were hired for that to begin with. Go tell them that.
And so the three of them head back to the rest of the party.
End of Episode Part

Jurassic Summer Vacation Episode 4 Part 1 (Abridged)

Rehearsal time!
MC: Ow. Where am I?
MC wakes up on a bed of plants. They've been tended to.
Cipactli: …you're up? Stay quiet a bit longer.
Cipactli is mashing something.
MC: (pick up your sword and get ready to fight)
Cipactli sees MC power through the pain but keeps doing his thing.
Cipactli: You know how bad you've been hurt. Here, herbal medicine. (hands MC some grassy concotion)
Cipactli: I'll make you drink it if you can't drink it yourself. Which will it be?
MC: Who are you...? (relaxes and takes the medicine)

Cipactli: ...Cipactli. I live here. I never seen someone with soft skin like you before. Where'd you come from?
He seems curious.
Cipactli: You can stay here if you have nowhere to go. I'll look after you. You hungry? I got fish this morning. (dumps raw fish in front of MC)
MC: I can't eat raw fish / You got fire? / Is this even edible?
Cipactli: You can't breathe fire? Your race has it rough.
Cipactli picks up the fish, burns it black with fire breath, then dumps it back down again.
Cipactli: Raw fish is awesome though!
MC: I can't eat ash either. You got any firewood?
Cipactli sighs inwardly as he lights a fire and apparently gives a new fish to MC. MC starts cooking the fish.
Cipactli: Oh my god it smells good! What did you do!?
MC: I cooked it...want one?
Cipactli: Oh my god is this really fish!? It's good! ...uh, what's your name?
MC: MC. Nice to meet you...? Thanks for saving me.
Cipactli: What else can you do!?
And so MC and Cipactli started living together for now.

Later
Cipactli: Hey MC, come here!
Cipactli makes MC sit on his lap and starts petting them.
MC: Wait are you treating me like a pet!? / This is fine I guess... / I'm leaving when I get better!
Cipactli: Okay you should be good enough to walk soon. I can show you around my world then!
Cipactli picks MC up and puts them on his shoulder. He walks out, where the ~~wyverns~~ dinosaurs start talking about this.
Red: The king came out! What'd you guys do!?
Yellow: Why'd he put food on his shoulder? He's weird.
MC: What, I'm food!? And you're a king!? They seem afraid of you...
Cipactli: They started treating me that way because I'm the strongest one here. Sometimes they ask for help, but most of the time they stay away.
He sounds sad.

Later
Cipactli: Okay this is the closest place where you can bathe. If you do want to come here though, take me with you or else they'll eat you up.
Cipactli starts floating and swimming on his back with MC riding on top of him.
Cipactli: MC, where'd you come from? From Outside?
MC: I...guess? I came from the surface.
Cipactli: ...d-did you come down here to join me?
He seems serious about that.
MC: U-um, I guess it looks that way. (remembers the mission and shuts up)
Peeping Toms wyverns dinos.
Red: Hmm. He's being way too friendly with them if they're food.
Yellow: Oh my god he scored a Schrodinger's gendered spouse!

Cipactli starts patting his tail on the water surface rhythmically!
Cipactli: I can show you the world~♪ Shining, shimmering, splendid~♪ Tell me, gorgeous, how long will your heart stay at my side~♪ (hugs MC)
Yellow: OH MY GOD HE DID SCORE
Red: SHUT UP we have to tell everyone else!
Cipactli puts MC under his arm and climbs out of the water.
Cipactli: I can open your eyes~♪ Show you natural wonders~♪ Take you across and over on a comfy tummy ride~♪
Cipactli makes a flower wreath and puts it on MC's head!
Cipactli: I don't really care why you came to begin with. But if you like it here, and you like me...would you stay with me?

Cut!
The audience applauds!
Oscar: Hi guys, I came to hang out! I'm glad rehearsal is going good.
Sphinx: I'm back you guys! I'm here to hang out, except I'm here for work.
MC: Oscar, it's you again! / Sphinx you look cute today ! / You two know each other?
---
(A) Oscar: Yes I've shown up in front of you again and again. I'm shameless that way. I came to tempt you so I'm glad you see me that way. I wanted to come earlier, but I had guildmaster and management work to do...
(B) Sphinx: That's right! I got time now so I can play if you really want. Say you want me to play with you already!
---
Oscar: Sphinx and I are sort of business partners. I asked for his assistance next season.
Sphinx: I'm meh about him and only lending my help because he said he needs it.
Oscar: But we're mystery loving buddies!
Sphinx: Correction: you love LIES. They aren't mysteries if you aren't going to have them solved.
Oscar smiles in an OOF way, then looks at Cipactli.
Oscar: I see you're the only one still not rehearsing in costume. Well not everyone can be shameless like me. You looked so nervous your first time on stage!
Leib: You the guildmaster? I got questions about that job you sent us.
Oscar: Oh my! Well if I can answer your desires, by all means.
Leib: We're just talking. Let's do that elsewhere. MC, you come too.

The beach
Oscar: So! We here to have some pillow talk by the beach? The mask and socks stay on! ...kidding.
Leib: I'll cut the bullshit. You were lying about Cipactli having problems controlling his power, weren't you? Meaning the job itself is bunk, so why are we really here?
Oscar: (pretends to wipe his eyes) I can't believe you'd doubt me over nothing! ...sike. Christine tells me my acting sucks so much I should stick to writing forever. Harsh critic, huh? But it's her ideas leading the way this event this time.
Leib raises an eyebrow. Oscar smirks at this.
Oscar: You guys know me, which is why I'm saying this. Christine honestly just wants to help Cipactli. Cipactli gave himself into his act as a kaiju, and she wants to respect that. If you don't believe me, then let me dump some backstory onto you now!

Oscar: Back before Cipactli joined us he tried living as "Cipactli," but people who knew him as a kaiju from his home world were hugely shocked. They asked if we were keeping a kaiju in not time flat! So then I used my Urban Legend crafting ability to hide Cipactli with the Urban Legend of the Sewer Gator, and Cipactli started going by Imix...or maybe I should stay Cipactli took off the Cipactli persona. Whatever! Either way he changed himself to be someone else on stage. He was having fun at first not being seen as That Kaiju, but then he started to wonder if he was lying to the audience. Do people really love him if they don't know who he is? That started affecting his performances, so Christine started thinking of ways of doing an identiy reveal for him.
MC: ...and how'd that go? Badly I guess, since he's still using Imix...
Oscar: Have you heard of I Can't Believe It's Not Jekyll and Hyde ft. Fergus Mac Roich? That was originally written for Cipactli instead, except he couldn't become Cipactli. We salvaged it somehow.
Leib: So, you're making us help him redo that. Except...
Oscar: Right, he still can't do it. But he said he might if you were here, MC.
MC: Oh... / Why does he care about me so much? / I wanna help
Oscar: You should ask him for more personal details, he'll probably tell you. I swear the part about wanting to help Cipactli is true even if everything else was bunk. What's the point of lying in the dressing room?
Leib: Couldn't you have said all that to begin with? Sheesh. (sighs and scratches head)
Oscar: Good luck with Cipactli!

Later
Leib and MC head back to the rehearsal area.
MC: Where's Cipactli?
Macroich: Oh, MC! I was looking for you! I was worrying about whether I was acting the right way here, so I figure we should practice together! How about it?
Leib claps a hand on MC's shoulder.
Leib: Welp, let's split up! You help Macroich and I'll look for Imix. Okay bye.
Macroich: ...is something wrong with Imix?
MC: Sorta / Not really / Just a little worried
Macroich: Oh! Ahh, Youth™!
Leib leaves. Macroich takes MC's hand.
Macroich: Let's start by reading our lines!

Yurakucho Opera House
Cipactli: La la la~♪
Cipactli notices someone coming and stops singing.
Leib: Hey, nice song. Didn't expect you to be up here. Still having problems moving forward?
Cipactli: Why are you here? Did you come to ask for a dance?
Leib: No, stupid. I came to talk to you as MC's Tamer senpai. You said you're the feared kaiju Cipactli, but I don't see it. What are you hiding?
Cipactli seems happy to be questioned about this.
Cipactli: Nothing. I just didn't want to bring it up myself.
Leib: ...normal people call that hiding something.
Cipactli: Did you want to know or not? Shut up and listen.
Cipactli takes a breath.
Cipactli: So, me being called a kaiju that almost destroyed El Dorado? True fact.

Narrative flashback!
Cipactli (narrating): I used to be feared as someone with power. I never showed myself in front of people, and only Quetzalcoatl and Itzamna ever met me. That probably caused rumors about me to spiral, come to think of it.
Wrestler A: Oh no the volcano blew up! Cipactli did it!
Wrestler B: We must give him sacrifices!
People started believing natural disasters happened because Cipactli wanted more sacrifices.
Wrestler C: Eat me, Cipactli!
Wrestler D: Me too! For El Dorado!
Things escalated from there.

Cipactli: What's wrong with you people!? Why do you offer yourselves so easily!?
Tezcatlipoca: Sounds like things are good! You sure are popular.
Cipactli: No I'm not. Everyone just fears me.
Tezcatlipoca: Charisma comes from unsubstantiated fear because it comes up infinitely! Doesn't having sacrifice without fighting seem enviable? In that sense I approve of your lamenting.
The sacrifices to Cipactli continued until El Dorado was falling out of balance with him growing so big as to break out of the confines of the world. All he could do was hide himself when he couldn't be fully hidden and watch the world exhaust itself.
Wrestler E: Why aren't the sacrifices working!?
Wrestler F: Oh my god, what if his wrath goes on infinitely even with the sacrifices?

If the world requires ever greater sacrifices, it can only head towards destruction. Chaos continued in spite of the offerings, and eventually doubt started spreading through the people: what if this is the main cause for the instability for System El Dorado? If the faith were to collapse, then so will the world. So, Cipactli made a decision since he had to be forced out of the world.
Cipactli: ...I don't care about a world where I can only be a kaiju, but I want to see my given role to the end and leave proof that I was myself.
Cipactli lied to the world and prayed that he would fool it on its greatest stage. He brought a trembling hand to the hand of one he saw as a dear friend...then brought it to his own neck.
Cipactli: Let's act like we had a battle, one that wrecked everything around. Pull me apart and use my limbs to make the lands and the seas. Defeat me and become heroes, and stabilize the land!

The ones in front of Cipactli knew who this lie was for. And so they threw themselves into the act.
Tezcatlipoca: Okay. Full power! ...and let me give you a farewell gift.
Tezcatlipoca tears off his own leg!
Tezcatlipoca: Now everyone will buy the act! We'll tell everyone you were strong and ate my leg!
Cipactli: Gross.
Tezcatlipoca: But you gnaw on Quetzalcoatl all the time! Take a bite! I'M the one who tastes better than my BRRRROTHER!
The battle act ends.
Cipactli: I don't need a farewell gift. But could you remember me and who I was instead? Even for just once a month.
The one he called his best friend nodded, and the warriors returned to tell the story.
Tezcatlipoca: Citizens of El Dorado! My *BRRRROTHER* Quetzalcoatl and I have defeated the monster Cipactli! Now sacrifice blood to him, Imix the First Day, so he may never wake again!
Peace returns to El Dorado, and so their stories go down in historical belief.

Present
Leib: Huh. So every world has the same cliched plot. And MC has Quetzalcoatl's memories?
Cipactli: ...yes, I believe them to be one of the few friends I had who knew who I really was. I was shy and withdrawn, and he tried so many times to bring me outside the world without a thought. I thought maybe I could be brave enough to go on stage if I were with MC...but you've seen how much of a coward I am.
Leib pulls some candy out of his pocket and gives it to Cipactli.
Leib: My buddy's a huge crybaby, but giving him candy always made him smile. In the beginning I thought it'd be easier to just hang him off of something, but now I need to make sure not to give him candy too often so it'll still work.
Cipactli: ...do I look like a crying child to you?
Leib: Just eat it, superstar. I'm not giving you any more.
Cipactli reluctantly tastes the candy. He is surprised at the taste, then looks sad.
Leib: It's your choice, but I think it'll be okay to trust them. They aren't the type to change how they see you based on your past.
Cipactli slightly nods. He and Leib continue talking, unaware there's someone else there watching them. Plot twist incoming.
End of Episode Part

Live A Hero Rakusai Travelogue Episode 4 (Abridged)

The party searches Shinraku at night for clues after destroying that Monster from last time. They don't find anything so they go back to the inn.
Tsuneaki: Noooo, I only made myself look more sus today...
MC: Good work, Tsuneaki / Poor old man~ / How about you turn yourself in?
---
(A) Tsuneaki: Aww, you're so nice MC
(B) Tsuneaki: I see that look in your eyes! You don't pity me at all, don't you?
(C) Tsuneaki: No! Because I'm innocent!
---
Tsuneaki seems perfectly fine for having walked all day.
Kouki: Ha ha...sorry everyone, I'm going to our room early. I'm a little tired.
Tsuneaki stops Kouki before he leaves.
Tsuneaki: Wait, one question please?
Kouki: Okay? What is it?
Tsuneaki: You don't have to answer me, but how come you've kept up your on camera behavior this whole time?
Kouki: !! W-whatever do you mean?
MC: You're imagining things! / (He knows!) / (look at Gammei)
(BC) Gammei: I said it this morning but--

Tsuneaki: I'm not imagining things! I'm an actor, I can tell! ...ok no, I just heard you through the walls this morning because they're thin.
Gammei: ...sorry, I tried saying it a bunch of times this morning but he didn't believe me.
Tsuneaki: It's okay, Kouki. It's not like I thought of blackmailing you or anything! ...oh no I sound even more sus!
Kouki: !?
Kouki: ...ha ha, you're funny. How can you find time to worry about me even after being thought of as the perp?
Kouki: (sigh) Dammit, I misread things and now I messed things up for everyone at the agency...
Tsuneaki: What? No way, it's that gossip rag writer's fault!
MC: Kouki did nothing wrong / You're right / ...

Kouki doesn't sound as prickly as he normally does, but he still gives off a sense of pride.
Kouki: I'm gonna go all in on my acting work, so I don't like anyone who doesn't take it seriously. But I still can't let myself look away from my own mistakes and keep acting the way I have...so I kept up the on-camera behavior before I realized it.
Gammei: It must be tough being a public entertainer.
Kouki: Yeah. I get the good boy act rolling for a while, and then that magazine blows it all up. But I know letting my real self show on camera won't just get people to like me. I know I'm a mouthy kid.
MC: Really? / I like you / (quietly look at Kouki)
(A) Kouki: ...MC? (shook)
(B) Kouki: Oh come on, flattering me isn't gonna help now...
It sounds like a "there there" to him.

Tsuneaki: ...Kouki?
Tsuneaki seems a little different now, like he's looking at a picture of himself as a kid while looking at Kouki.
Tsuneaki: I'm sure you've been acting like you were on camera all day, but do you really want to say everything you said and felt during then was fake?
Kouki: ...! No...
Tsuneaki: One other question: why are your only choices to keep the act up or show what you're really like?
MC: What? / Hmm, he's right / You don't have to choose
(AB) Tsuneaki: No one's telling you to choose, except maybe yourself. You can still not choose between them.
(C) Tsuneaki: You're stealing my lines, MC! But yes, that's what I was thinking Kouki.

Kouki: What?
Tsuneaki: (looking out the window) When I was your age, I worried about the difference between my appearance and my cultural upbringing. Then someone told me I didn't need to choose. If you're stuck at a fork, you can find some surprising new paths if you just look around. But you're free to choose whatever.
Gammei: It bugs me that he's speaking sense, but I agree.
Kouki: ...
Kouki thinks everyone is making sense, but he's having trouble thinking of an alternate choice.
Kouki: ...what did you choose?
Tsuneaki: Wait, you sure you wanna know now? Well, I'm okay with telling if you can say it won't change your mind.
Kouki: What the hell? Fine, I'll think about it myself!
Kouki frowns for a second.

Kouki: ...but thanks. I feel a little better now.
Sirius: Bark!
Kouki may be hesitant, but in Sirius's eyes he will always be Kouki no matter what.
Kouki: Thanks for worrying, Sirius. It's night now though, so no loud noises.
Tsuneaki: Hey, Gammei! MC! Didn't I just say something cool now?
Gammei: Not anymore, ugh. But yeah you can't change how you feel on a dime, so go ahead and relax while you're with us. You'll find the time to think about things that way.
MC: You can do it / I'm cheering for you, Kouki / (hold Kouki's hand)
(AB) Kouki: ...thanks you two, and sorry for bothering you.
Gammei: It's cool. When I was a kid I--
Kouki: Stop treating me like a kid tho. Or else I'll call you old man
Gammei: Urgh. I guess I would be from your perspective but still...
---
(C) Kouki: Thanks you two...and MC I would have thanked you even without you grabbing my hand.
---
Tsuneaki: Ooh, ha ha! Is that how you normally are? Gotta watch out!
Kouki is slightly more relaxed now. He thinks about what he should do next, then goes to sleep.

Flashback
???: Don't choose?
Space Onmyouji: Yep! You were worrying about whether you had to identify as an alien or an Earthling, right Tsuneaki? Because you were born here but clearly don't look like it. I think you don't need to choose though.
Tsuneaki (narrating): I started talking to this guy a lot after meeting him through that paper bird thing. He's some sort of old Japan onmyouji, but I thought he was just joking about that. But then I wondered I might be accepted as an Earthling if I applied old Japanese customs to myself too, so I decided I wanted to study under him.
Tsuneaki: What? Is this more "I am looking into your future" crap?
Space Onmyouji: Hahaha, was that supposed to be an imitation of me? Wow you've been paying attention.
Tsuneaki (narrating): ...come to think of it, I wasn't honest with him and I wasn't that good a student. I frowned when he found me making fun of him hilarious.
Space Onmyouji: Oh, sorry. Back on topic! ...sort of. So I have a pet theory. An alien born on Earth would have a newness that'd never have existed before, so wouldn't that mean they'd have more choices on how to live than there ever was? Maybe I can teach you some way of finding a good future.
Tsuneaki (narrating): He wasn't even mad, but that pissed me off. It felt like he wasn't treating me seriously because I was a kid. I mean I was, but ironically he treated me more like a person than anyone else.

Present
Late at night, on the streets of Shinraku
Tsuneaki: Aww man, they remind me of who I used to be so much I ended up meddling.
Tsuneaki is talking to someone while leaning back against a wall. He came out alone.
Ninja: Don't give me that crap.
The ninja is leaning back on the wall on the other side.
Tsuneaki: Okay okay, you want my regular report right? You sure work hard being up this late. But yeah I'm doing my part. I only just started though so it'll be a while before anything comes up. Go back and wait.
Ninja: ...hmph. You sure are stuck up for an invader.
Bloodlust comes from that side! But Tsuneaki pushes back.
Tsuneaki: And you're the one who has to depend on an "invader." You think you can act like that to someone solving a problem the organization can't?
Tsuneaki turns back towards the ninja. The ninja leaves shortly after.
Tsuneaki: Ugh, things only just got together. I know I have to hurry, it's an important moment.
Gammei: (hides nearby)

Title Card: Four AM Shadow Sneaker

The next morning, the party is talking to the festival president at the festival grounds
President: Thank you so much. It's not public yet, but we'll help as much as we can and--
MC's Monster sensing is moving the incident closer to being solved. Since finding out there's more than one Monster running around, Gammei and the others are dressing up as citizens and helping out to lure the Monsters out.
MC: A decoy plan, huh? Careful guys! / I'm nervous...
Kouki: I'm used to fighting Monsters, but being a decoy myself is still kind of nerve wracking...you be careful too MC, since you're going to be watching us for a long time.
Gammei: Yeah, we gotta stick it out to investigate for Monsters while we're at it. We got agency Operators also watching us until we have to fight though, so don't worry.
Tsuneaki: So, am I still guiding y'all? The president sent me some map data earlier...

President: It's where our mikoshi are placed in town. You said Monsters have transformed into them, right? Then maybe any you find not on that map might be them.
Kouki: That's a good idea!
Gammei: Oh, now we just need to keep civilians safe. But telling them to stay away will just cause other rumors...
Tsuneaki: What if we just told them we're exorcising them?
President: Oh yeah. The rumors have people thinking youkai are around. Not everyone believes, but I'll tell people to help calm them down.
Gammei: Thanks. Time to patrol then?
The party starts walking and immediately have children come up to talk to them.
Girl A: Hi! You guys done talking with the president? Where'd you come from?
Boy B: Wow your festival coat looks awesome! Where can I buy one?
MC: We're from Orient City / Yeah it's nice / whomst

Tsuneaki: Hiiii! They came from Orient City to help with our festival.
Other random townspeople hear Tsuneaki and take an interest in the party.
Rando A: Wow! We get a lot of tourists who watch, but you wanna join in?
Rando B: Humans! I wish SOMEBODY who lived in the next city over took more interest in us!
Rando C: Yay! I'm so glad people are coming after those stupid rumors went up.
Gammei: Uhh, I guess we ARE helping but--
Tsuneaki: (Gammei, play along with me. People will flip out if they find out you're heroes!)
The party is taken aback at the innocent attention. They seem happy about meeting some friendly humans, probably because of the town of racists nearby.
Food Cart Man: Hey, come eat some of my food later!
Beer Cart Man: HEY, don't try to get a head start! Fine, come check out my booze! Family recipe~. Actually I hear this place used to be famous for sake brewing until it all burned down. We tried contacting the owners to rebuild their warehouse at least, but no one in his family ever came back for it. Kinda sad.
MC: Wait...
Kouki and MC remember the history lesson they got the other day.

Gammei: ...hey can I get a cup?
Kouki: Gammei, we're supposed to be on patrol soo--
MC: Yeah we're on the clock / Kouki wait / How about I drink instead?
---
(B) Kouki: MC...I understand how Gammei feels after what I heard yesterday but...
(C) Gammei: No, wait. I dunno how much you can drink, but you gotta have a clear head if we do run into Monsters today.
---
Gammei: Pffft, one cup will be fine. It's my job to play nice with the locals! And I wouldn't want to be rude now.
Tsuneaki: Well, how about the rest of us get on with our work like the president asked? Gammei can just call us if anything happens.
Gammei nods, so everyone else moves on.

Kouki: Wow, the people we talked to were so different from the people we tried asking for info yesterday.
The party is talking while checking out places on Tsuneaki's map where there isn't supposed to be mikoshis.
Kouki: Like, they might have opinions on the neighbors but they aren't that mad about it.
Tsuneaki: Well, nobody in this generation lived through all the Monster attacks that happened in the area back then. Remember what Gammei said about that old lady he talked to? The old people of their time just kept going on about it. There's gonna be some dramatization of the good ol' days, so not everyone's gonna take it the same way. And there still might be some nice people even if there's some real haters.
MC: I wonder if they'll ever kiss and make up / So they just missed each others' signals? / Sounds like celeb gossip
---
(B) Tsuneaki: Yep. But also the 100 years passing thing too.
(C) Tsuneaki: Actually, I guess so.
---
Tsuneaki: They might actually make up if the chance comes up. It's just that the chance doesn't really come by much...
The party continues searching. MC doesn't sense anything though, so after a while they head back to the festival plaza.

Later
MC: Gammei's late... / We should go back for now
---
(A) Kouki: Hmm. Maybe he's still talking with the townspeople.
(B) Tsuneaki: Right, we should probably pull Gammei out now.
---
Tsuneaki: Okay, we should go ba--
Kouki: Tsuneaki, behind you!
Sirius: BARK BARK
Sirius destroys a Monster that popped up behind Tsuneaki!
Tsuneaki: Oh my god! Thanks Sirius!
Kouki: MC, do you sense anything?
MC: Just now, yeah. There's more towards the festival plaza!
Tsuneaki: Did Gammei call? No wait, it's faster if we just go there!
Kouki: I've tried, but he isn't picking up! Sorry MC, I'll run ahead! Sirius!
Sirius: Bark!
Kouki rides Sirius (somehow) and speeds off!
Tsuneaki: There'll be other Operators watching and keeping Gammei's hero form on, so he should be able to fight. If he isn't calling, maybe he's already fighting.
There's screaming in the distance! Also, cheering?

Later
MC: Okay we're here! Are the townspeople okay? What's going on with the Monster...?
MC looks around. Kouki and Gammei are fighting Monsters and Possessed Mikoshi in the center while Sirius is guarding the civilians. Also the civilians are cheering rather than running to safety and it's Gammei who's responding to them.
Gammei: HAHAHA, you Monsters are losers! Come at me if you think you can actually fight worth a damn!
Rando A: YEAAAAHHH
Gammei actually sits on a mikoshi Monster and takes a drink!
Gammei: Hey, freaks! How about you siddown and have a drink and stop eating people, goddammit?
Monster: REEEEE
The Monster tries throwing Gammei off to eat him! But it only made him spill his drink...

Kouki: Look out, Gammei!
Gammei jumps off and dodges some other Monster's attack! Then he swings his matoi (Edo period Fire Alert Sign) Parallel Weapon like a bat and knocks a Monster out of the park!
Monster: reeeEEEE
Sirius: Bark!
The Monster goes flying at Sirius, who finishes it off and explodes it into light dust!
Kouki: Gammei, think of where you're hitting those things!
Gammei: Oh shaddup. Sirius sorted that out, didn't he? You have a Good Boy in your family, but you're a dependable kid too. So smart, you guys.
Kouki: Oh god how much did you drink!? We're still working here!
Gammei tried to throw an arm around Kouki's shoulders. Kouki however slips away from the booze smell.
Gammei: Pfffft, it ain't that much...
The second Gammei starts stumbling around, the Monsters attack! Gammei swings back!
MC: This cannot be cool / I'm impressed he can fight while drunk / I'mma take a video for myself
(C) Tsuneaki: (Pfff) MC, no (snrk) this isn't the time for oh hell I can't even finish that sentence! Hahaha!

Tsuneaki: Really, what the hell happened while we were gone? How mad ARE the townspeople to stay and watch and cheer instead of running!?
MC: I can't keep up with this. Anyways, we need to get the people out of here!
Tsuneaki: I'll ask the festival president to help with that. MC...
Tsuneaki: Uh, it might be hard to operate like this, but good luck!
MC: You're enjoying this / Is Gammei okay? / Good luck, Kouki!
Gammei is out of it as one might expect. Kouki is concerned as he opens up communications.
Kouki: What should we do? All Gammei is thinking of is kicking Monster butt! We're trying our best to cover the townspeople but--ahh!
Gammei: OOF
Gammei got knocked down by a mikoshi Monster!

Kouki: Gammei, are you okay!?
Gammei: Heeey, this thing is moving faster now.
Kouki: Wait, we should work together!
Gammei: Then you better keep up! I know I look drunk off my ass but I haven't forgotten what I'm here to do. Either one of us takes the Monster down, or we both do! Tsuneaki might be a useless dumbass, but he can still help move people away at least, right?
MC: Gammei... / You heard all that? / So, you trust us?
Gammei: Starting picking, Kouki!
Kouki thinks back to last night.
Tsuneaki: Why is it that you only have two choices?
Present
Kouki: ...fiiiine, I'll work with you, you stupid old man.
MC: Kouki we are on camera!
Kouki: It's cool, MC. I'll be real, now and always. I'm Kouki Inukura, hero of Neo Talents! Who cares about some dumb internet mob!?
Reminder that we're live on camera. Kouki doesn't give a damn.
Kouki: Old man! Sirius! I'll take point, so let's take the Monster down together!
Gammei: Damn, you got guts kid. Right, I'll help!
Sirius: Bark!
Kouki charges, blades in hand!
BATTLE START

Jurassic Summer Vacation Episode 3 Part 3 (Abridged)

Right, the best buddy beach games. Everyone trades off the judge position for every game and tallies points. First one is a treasure digging race.
Cu Sith: Let me handle this, Leib-senpai! Bark bark!
Leib: Cool. Dig my part too.
Fenrir: I shall grasp the buried treasure with mine claws!
Jambavan: Go straight down! I feel it's that way!
The Ueno Therians and scoring big.
Next game! Breaking down a sand hill with a stick! Pazuzu and Hastur go first.
Hastur: Ha! My power can destroy this thing with ease!
Pazuzu: Wait, you're supposed to use the--WHOOSH
Pazuzu: ...(cough)...well being hasty is cute too.

Welp, moving on then. Round 3, water gun and water balloon team fight! Hecate and Barguest kick ass here!
Hecate: Show them your power, Barguest!
Barguest: Yes, Milady! Sorry MC, no mercy now.
Alp: I have you now, Barguest! ...huh?
Gun jam! It squirts Alp instead!
Alp: Noooo!
Yuma: Alp, I'm coming to help!
Yuma's water balloon blows up in his face!
Hecate: Tee hee, the power of misfortune!
Yuma: Alp, it's cold!
Alp: Haha, you're all wet now!
Yuma: But so are you. Ehehe, wet buddies.
Hecate keels over from the pureness.
Hecate: GASP! Truly the best buddies! I can die a happy witch...
Barguest: Breathe, milady, breathe!

Elsewhere
Zhurong: Somehow I can't hit Quantum!
Boogeyman: What!? What do we do!?
Quantum: Sorry, it's just how I am.
Macroich and Quantum hit Boogeyman and Zhurong!
Boogeyman and Zhurong: Noooo!
Zhurong: How can this be?
Quantum: I've just grown more among the grade schoolers. I win, tee hee.
Macroich: Wow you're good at shooting!
Quantum: Physics.

Okay, last game to the buddy competition: human chariot in the water! Steal their headbands, keep yours on to win!
MC: We're gonna win!
Cipactli: Of course! Because I'm the strongest!
MC is on Cipactli's back as they face off against another team.
Cipactli: I'm surprised you're the last team standing.
Macroich: Sorry to make you stick with me to the end, Quantum. I want to win!
Quantum: It's okay, this is fun. We might as well go for it since we're here.
Quantum is sitting on Macroich's shoulders and closes her eyes for some reason.
Macroich: ...you see anything?
Quantum: Hmm...processing... It's going to be hard to take MC's headband. Also Imix seems to work well in the water.
Macroich: How about I buy you time to work your Laplace's Demon future reading thing?
MC: Imix I think we should make this quick. No mercy, you two!
Cipactli: Hang on, MC! Let's do this!

Cipactli: Hmm. I'm surprised you can actually hold out against me physically. But for how long?
Macroich: Celtic Smash!
No movements, but both sides still seem strong.
Macroich: Heh, you seem to be having fun. I haven't seen you look like that in a while!
Cipactli: So do you. How about I push you over?
Macroich: Whoa, I can't fall here. Full Youth™ Power!
Cipactli: Wait, Youth™!? Macroich, are you also--
Nobody else can hear Cipactli and Macroich talking. But Cipactli gets distracted and Macroich pulls him forward to step in some Conveniently Placed mud! Cipactli loses balance and now MC is in reach!
Quantum: All according to keikaku!
MC: Oh no! All or nothing then! Imix, your tail!

MC kicks off Cipactli to avoid getting caught by Quantum! MC also avoids technical elimination via jumping off Cipactli's back because Cipactli's tail is long enough for MC to grab onto!
Quantum: What!? I mean I guess it's not really against the rules but--
MC: Thanks Imix! I have you now, Quantum!
Epic reaction shot!
Team Cipactli and MC wins!
Alp: Oh my god, wow that was awesome! You guys were in synch! ...uh, not that I accept you guys are the best for each other yet! Compatibility matters!
Cipactli: Like premier teamwork and a nice tail?
Alp: I guess...I mean, I can accept you meet the bare minimum at least!
Pazuzu: Seriously though, you two really are in synch. I can't believe you two barely knew each other before this.

Everyone else starts walking up.
Quantum: ...I'm sorry, I didn't see that possibility coming.
Macroich: It's cool! I'd never have gotten there alone anyways!
Zhurong: Look, I took so many pictures! (shows pics of Quantum and Macroich)
Quantum: Thanks, Zhurong. I guess having fun in the moment is good enough.
Zhurong: Anyways, how'd you do that phasing thing? Show me!
Quantum: Um, not everyone can do it and I think it's better that you can't.
Zhurong: Aww, I wanted to be like a ninja.
Macroich: How about I teach you dual wielding?
Zhurong: Oh my god yes!
Quantum: Losing interest in me already? Jerk! I can teach you math at least!
Zhurong: D:
Zhurong: Ehehe, I'll go take pictures of everyone else okay? (runs)

Cu Sith: Leib, you didn't even try!
Leib: It just wasn't time yet. Okay we're done, I'mma lie down over there.
Leib: (And if you really think about it, it'll look like MC talked me into it if I did try.)
Yuma: Leib-senpai, aren't you going to practice? I wanted to see you act...
Leib: Oh god no! And why should I practice in front of you guys!?
The other Ueno members get interested.
Zhurong: Oh right! I wanted to see Mr. Boogeyman act too!
Cipactli: Yeah, the point of me letting you bring your friends in was to have an audience you could practice in front of. So get changed and let's do it!
Leib walks off to the dressing room, resigned...

Later
The Beast Tamers are smiling at Leib's costume.
Leib: ...what? Spit it out.
Yuma: ...it looks great on you. You look even more hardworking and cool than usual.
Jambavan: I agree! You look like someone responsible and doesn't push work onto his subordinates!
Leib: Thanks, could you make it any more backhanded? Really feeling the love here, huh MC?
Zhurong: Mr. Boogeyman you look sooo cool! Like a super reliable captain!
Boogeyman: O-oh...haha, I think I'm a little more comfortable in this now.
Cipactli: Heh, you going to be okay? Don't tell me you talked big earlier only to freeze in front of your students.
Boogeyman: I'll be okay. I have to show them I am.
Cipactli: Good. Time to put your money where your mouth is! Ready? Turning the projectors on in 3, 2, 1...

Spaceship
Boogeyman: ...so there are dinosaurs here and they ran off with MC?
Macroich came back to report to Boogeyman.
Hecate: Oh no, my gut feeling was right!
Macroich: I have no excuses. I will go right back and rescue MC!
Boogeyman: >:(
Hecate and Macroich: !!
Boogeyman: ...throwing more people won't change things, and anyone in my command should know that.
Leib: Based on the reports, the dinos are highly intelligent. They might have just taken MC prisoner. If they're hurt, I'll have to go along as medic, right Sir?
Hecate: Can I go too? I'm worried about MC!
Macroich: Me three!
Boogeyman sighs, knowing they'll come anyway if he says no.
Boogeyman: Fine...but if you get in my way...
Boogeyman: >:(
Hecate and Macroich: WE WON'T
Boogeyman: Good. Move out!

Later
Boogeyman: So this is where you guys lost MC and the dinos flew northwest? Searching is more effort than just calling them here, so...
Leib: Wait what are you doing
Boogeyman whips out a chainsaw and revs it up!
Boogeyman: Step back if you don't want to get caught up in this.
Boogeyman starts swinging his chainsaw around!
Leib: Holy shit what
Macroich: We should go too! Youth™ Charge!
Boogeyman is humming something as he makes flowers rain down!

Boogeyman: (suddenly beatboxing)
Hecate, Leib, and Macroich: !?
Boogeyman: (beatboxing continues)
Rhythmical dissonance!
Boogeyman: Dinos and flyers, you little bitch~♪ I'mma put you in tonight's main dish~♪
Wyverns Dinos fly in! Boogeyman saws them down! Then he turns around all covered in blood.
Boogeyman: Okay, I let those ones go so they can lead us to MC. Let's go!
Cipactli watches the party act. Wow, it's just like how it was when he first started acting.
Cipactli: NO IT'S NOT! That's just freaky and overdoing it!
Everyone else is taken aback at this.
Zhurong: Um...I think it was nice how that was so like you, Mister?
Quantum: Zhurong, normal children would be scarred by this.
MC: I'm glad you enjoyed yourself! / Knees shaking... / Oh my god the pressure!

Boogeyman: Oh, haha...I tried my best, but maybe it was a bit much? (awkwardly scratches face)
Cipactli: Yes, definitely. That said, that was still your best performance to date. But if that's how you see my acting then I have so many questions.
Boogeyman: I specialize in traumatizing people. I'm pretty good at it if I say so myself.
Boogeyman smiles. Cipactli can't help but smile a little too. Zhurong and Quantum smile at each other over this.
Quantum: I'm glad you're having fun, Mister.
Zhurong: Yeah! Everyone at school is spreading rumors you got fired!
Boogeyman: O-oh...sorry to worry you two.
Boogeyman hugs Quantum and Zhurong close to his legs.
Quantum: ...mister?
Zhurong: Hehe. This kind of hurts.
Boogeyman: I'm glad I have students like you.
Quantum: Oh right, we had one more thing for you.

Quantum gives Boogeyman a card from the class asking for him to come back.
Zhurong: Everyone in class wrote in it!
Boogeyman: ...wow, who'd ever think children would like me so much? (wipes eyes)
Quantum: The children you scolded the other day didn't cry because they were scared of you. They were afraid you hated them. We all want you back.
Boogeyman: O-oh...and here I thought you hated me.
Cipactli: You can go back if that's where you belong. You don't have to keep a mask on to be over here.
Boogeyman thinks. Then he turns to Quantum and Zhurong.
Boogeyman: Thanks you two. I do want to go back, but please give me a bit of time. I have something I want to do here for now.
Zhurong: Okay. We kind of guessed as much.
Quantum: We'll tell everyone else, don't worry.
Boogeyman hugs them again, then turns to Cipactli.
Boogeyman: I tried to run from my past, so I have no room to say anything on it to you. But even though I ran, the future my students have came for me.
Cipactli: Your current acting can only traumatize other children. Do you still want to go on?
Boogeyman: Hah. Can I ask for acting tips then?
Cipactli: ...fine I guess. It's going to be a problem if you can't control yourself, so I can help for a bit. First, the basics of speaking!
And so the musical progress goes on, and a drama bomb looms closer in the distance...
End of Episode

Jurassic Summer Vacation Episode 3 Part 2 (Abridged)

The Beast Tamers are here!
Alp: Vacation time! Whoo!
MC: Yay! / Wow you actually came / Thanks for saying yes, Imix
---
(C) Cipactli: ...you were begging. It's my thanks for going on stage with me!
---
Cipactli: My home is turning into a safari park!
Yuma: Nooo, MC and everyone can see how much of a furry I am not!
Fenrir: Yes, Guildmaster! I too suffer under the searing blaze of the sun as a creature of ~darkness~, but we shadow dwellers will not falter!
Alp, Pazuzu, and Cu Sith emit happy beams!
Fenrir: NOOO THE LIGHT IS TOO MUCH (flump)
Leib: Oh that's too bad, looks like we can't practice today. What a shame. I'mma sit over there you guys.
Cipactli: You knew this would happen!?

Barguest: Okay we're here. Look, there's your teacher.
Quantum: Mr. Boogeyman! I was worried about you when you took time off, but you're in a nice place here. You're so naughty to leave me in the lurch after I transferred in.
Zhurong: No fair keeping this pretty and fun place to yourself! Right Quantum?
Quantum: Right Zhurong. Maybe we should be the ones looming around going "whoo~" next.
Cipactli: I didn't give permission to make my home a day care either dammit!
Boogeyman: Sorry, they kept bugging me about what I was doing, then asked to come when I sent a picture.
Cipactli: Well it's okay if it motivates you. But I'm throwing you out with the children if you perform badly.
Zhurong: Excuse me, can I take a picture of you? Mr. Boogeyman, line up with him!
Zhurong excitedly takes a picture. Quantum looks at the equipment and stuff.
Quantum: Ohh, so you're the one being observed? Seems like fun.
Boogeyman: Don't tell anyone at school, okay? I'm on record as taking a long break, but it's expected I'll be retraining and doing disciplinary stuff.
Quantum: Does that mean you'll get us tickets? Those are expensive for us.
Boogeyman looks at Cipactli. Cipactli sighs and says yes.
Zhurong: Ehehe. Can we look around?
Boogeyman: Okay, just stay with me. And don't go into the deep water.

Cipactli: ...he really is a teacher. That explains why he's so nag--AHH
Pazuzu: (zooms in) HI, I'm Pazuzu! You the sewer gator!? You're even bigger than I thought! Can I touch your tail and claws?
Cipactli: Get back! You're supposed to let me say yes before you touch! I'll bite you, I will!
Hastur: Ha ha, Pazuzu's overpowering you too!
MC: Fiiine, I'll stop this.
Alp: No wait, MC! Let's keep watching. If Pazuzu takes the gator, you'll be my buddy again! Hastur will be happy, I'll be happy, everything's perfect!
MC: wait that was your deal!?
Alp: Mwehehe...I am Dark Alp, fear me! Now let's go and enjoy the beach, just the two of us!
MC: Hastur, you sure this is cool? Pazuzu might actually leave you / I'mma take Hastur as my buddy then!
(AB) Hastur: Good! He has no standards beyond being a lizard anyway.
(C) Hastur: NEVER!

Hastur: Actually, stay back MC! We are supposed to be sworn enemies! How can everyone else be fine in your incomprehensible presence?
Hecate: Hmmmm...sworn enemies, you say? So you actually love each other!? MC, how could you hide something so delectable from me!? Where are my notes!?
Cipactli: MC HELP
Pazuzu: Hey can you open your mouth wider? Lizards opening their mouths is one of my fetishes!
Cipactli: S-stay back, debauchee! Or I'll punt you through the sewer system!
Jambavan: I'm sorry about him, he's not always like this.
Macroich: It's cool, this is more fun! And I'm glad you're enjoying yourself, Cipactli! I figured you'd be sad and lonely with this much space to yourself.
Hecate: Is he? I'm enjoying just watching.
Cipactli: GET OFF
Blue flame aura flash!
MC: Oh no! / Run, Pazuzu! / Rip...

Pazuzu's gonna die!
Hastur: Hmph. If you are a natural threat, then I am to seal you!
Hastur blocks for Pazuzu and stops Cipactli.
Pazuzu: Aww, you saved me!
Hastur: Much as I would rather not admit it, we are buddies.
Pazuzu: I'm sorry for paying attention to someone else. I couldn't help myself!
Hastur: Listen to me!
Cipactli: ...how cliche can you get? Never mind that. MC, why didn't you come help me!?
MC: Umm... / I wasn't sure what was happening / (distract with belly rubs)
(B) Cipactli: O-oh! You sure know how to dodge things!
(C) Cipactli: ...what? You don't think this is going to work, do you?

Pazuzu: I'm sorry~! But wow, you're really strong. I'm even more interested now!
Cipactli's face twitches as he leaves.
Alp: No, it didn't work! FINE, I'll do this the direct way! You, Imix! I challenge you to a buddy off!
Cipactli: ...MC, all your friends are annoying. Heh, and you think you can challenge me? I can eat you up in one bite.
Alp pulls out a mic!
Alp: I don't think you know me well, so if you don't wanna see hell, you best step back and take the L~♪
MC: Oh my god a rap battle!? / Yay! / Isn't this a little unfair?
Alp breakdances. Cipactli snorts.
Cipactli: You wanna be top buddy? You're just fresh meat~♪ When it comes to supporting MC, my flesh and heart have got you beat~♪
Ohhhhh! (applause)
MC: Wow he's keeping up! / Imix is amazing too! / wait what

Alp: Ugh, you're good.
Cipactli: Ha! You can't expect to take my spot on stage and as MC's buddy that easy!
Hecate: WAAAIIIT! Let me handle this duel! We should make it a big buddy competition!
Macroich: Yes! The suggestion that comes straight from Youth™!
Barguest: YOU came up with this idea, Milady!?
Hecate: I can pick up on anything if it ships other people.
MC: Oh my god you're into this! / Nooo stop fighting~ / Are you my buddy, Hecate?
---
(C) Hecate: No I'm getting dragged into it! You can't just do that to me!
---
Pazuzu: Cool! Let's see who's lizard is bigger and tougher!
Alp: I'm taking MC back if I win!
Cipactli: ...I don't have a reason to go with this, but okay. I'll prove that I'm the best buddy for MC!
MC: how did this happen / Welp! (get ready)

Later
Okay pretty much everyone present has decided to join in for the hell of it. The competition will be beach sports of all kinds.
Alp: Okay Yuma, we're going all out!
Yuma: Yeah...if we win, I want MC to be my Tamer. Take me for walkies on a leash.
Alp: Hey wait, MC is supposed to be MY Tamer!
Yuma: We can switch every day. You're popular too, everyone will want you.
Alp: Nooo, you're playing dirty using that argument!
Alp and Yuma are Team Give Us MC Back
Barguest: Milady, a-are you sure you want to team up with me?
Hecate: You show concern on the weirdest things. We are in it to the end! Gwehehe, the shipping fodder!
Barguest: Oh, you're aggressive the way you used to be. That's both nice and sad...
Barguest and Hecate are Team STAY BACK

Boogeyman: Zhurong, are we really joining in?
Zhurong: It's going to be fun! And our bond won't lose out!
Boogeyman: Right...wait, where's Quantum? Maybe we can be a group of three?
Zhurong: She's with Macroich. No holding back!
Boogeyman and Zhurong are Team Cutie☆Horror
Macroich: So I can be MC's buddy if I win? I can't let this pass me by then!
Quantum: I'm surprised you caught me and asked me to be your buddy even though I knew you could see me. (looks at Macroich's swords)
Quantum: Ooh, you're also stuck between two things. It's weird how many people in Tokyo can see the present, future, and other things between you and that lady.
Macroich: My Instinct skill tells me to keep wandering! We can be the dark horse team!
Macroich and Quantum are Team Flickering Youth™. Cipactli snorts at the other teams.

Cipactli: ...this is just turning into a game on the beach.
MC: The others seem tough / Let's do our best, Imix! / Don't hurt anyone okay?
Cipactli: ...huh, you've gone soft. You used to like bloody brawls with Tezcatlipoca. So what should our team name be? How about Team We Are the Strongest! ?
MC: Lame / Pizza Lovers? / Lovey Dovey Lovers?
---
(A) Cipactli: Oh...you pick something then.
(B) Cipactli: Um, if you want it. It sounds uncool though.
(C) Cipactli: No, that's embarassing! Pick something else!
---
Cipactli: Well I guess the name doesn't matter that much! We're the clear winners!
Cu Sith runs up crying to MC!
Cu Sith: Waaah! Leib isn't even trying!
Leib: Couldn't you have picked literally anyone else to partner up with you?
Cu Sith: Everyone else is joining in, so please come with me! We could win it together!
MC: Just humor him / I'll do ANYTHING for you if you try hard.
(BC) Leib: ...it pisses me off that you think that would work on me.

Leib: ...fiiiine, I guess I'm in. It's gonna cost ya.
Welp! Leib and Cu Sith are Team Go To Work Already
Fenrir: HA! We shall see who the best buddy in Ueno is now, Slothful Polar Bear!
Jambavan: Wait, this is just a game Fenrir! Don't go crazy!
Fenrir: Behold the rage that makes the gods tremble in fear!
Jambavan: Noooo!
Fenrir and Jambavan are Team Let Sleeping Wolves Lie, Bear! while Pazuzu and Hastur are Team You Are the Biggest Calamity In Ueno
Pazuzu: Okay, is that everyone? I'll give a trip for two as a prize to the winners!
Hastur: I'm not going with you if we win.
Pazuzu: Ooh~. Planning to invite MC instead?
Hastur: W-what!? How dare you spout such drivel!
Cipactli: This may be all fun and games, but we'll still win! Let's go, MC!
MC: Yeah! / I wonder if we can win? / There's a prize now! We gotta get it!
Let the games begin!
BATTLE START

Jurassic Summer Vacation Episode 3 Part 1 (Abridged)

Musical practice!
The search team is investigating. Macroich and MC are leading.
Mobs (hey we have extras with us actually): We gots the strongest people with us~♪
Macroich: Tell everybody we're on our way~♪ That soon we're gonna save the day~♪
Mobs: We gots the strongest people with us~♪
Macroich: With our guts and our youth, who could ask for more~?♪ And a little smile to see us through~♪
fwoosh
MC: Something's there!
The mobs rock up! But nothing shows itself...
Macroich: ...look out, something's in the sky!
Oh no! Wyverns swoop and fly off with some of the mobs!

Macroich: Watch your backs! MC, over here! We're gonna cut our way out of this mess!
MC: Roger! / But we already lost people! / Dammit!
Macroich: Fergus Smash!
Macroich and MC calm the remaining soldiers down! But the wyverns dinosaurs are smart enough to regroup and gang up on Macroich!
MC: Oh no! MC Cover!
Macroich: No, they'll go after you too!
MC gets shanked by a dino claw because they took their eyes off the wyverns dinosaur in front of them...
MC: OOF. Naptime...
The wyverns dinosaur carries MC away!
Macroich: Noooo!
Macroich tries to save MC but fails...

Search Team Spaceship or whatever
Hecate: I sense something happened with MC. Hmm, I must be imagining it. They're with Macroich, it should be all good.
Leib: What's wrong, Hecate? You seem jittery.
Hecate: I'm worried. I really should have gone with them earlier, but I can still--
Boogeyman (offscreen): No need, you all know how strong those two are.
Boogeyman walks up. Hecate and Leib salute.
Boogeyman: It's just us, you can stop already.
Leib: In that case, I'll say straight out that you shouldn't underestimate the unknown wildlife. Danger scale's pretty different down here, but those two should be able to pull through okay.
Hecate: Oh no! Death flags everywhere! (looks outside the window)
Hecate: ...I hope they're all okay.

Cut!
Hecate: AAAAAA I CAN'T KEEP GOING
Cipactli: Again? I said we're supposed to make a full run of the rehearsal today. You can't keep having a breakdown after every line.
Macroich: She's getting better! She'll get used to it soon.
Cipactli: MC, you did good. The way you switch expressions on a dime makes you look like a different person! Like Christine!
MC: Tee hee, thanks. Maybe I should try going pro.
Cipactli: Maybe you should. Want to think about working on stage with me forever?
Hecate: HMMMM. Cipactli seems oddly sweet on MC.
Cipactli: No, you all are doing very well for first timers. The backstage crew could do this professionally too. The dinosaur golems are great.
Vapula: D'aww, thanks! I'm happy to have a stage to show off how much I've vaprogressed!
Cipactli: The backdrop looks just like El Dorado! You two are amazing, Itzamna and Turing.
Yep, things are going good for a crew that started off with a bunch of people having never done this before.

Leanan Sidhe: You can do it, Hecate! Try practicing these lines I picked out you'd specifically freak out over.
Hecate: STOOOOP!
Cipactli: Haha, shall I help too?
Hecate: No thanks, I'll never ask you for help! ...oh no, that's another flag!
MC: Wow, things are going great. It's more fun than I thought.
Suddenly someone sticks something cold onto MC!
MC: AHH! WHOMST
Leib: Tee hee, nice. Brought you a cold drink, kouhai. Keep hydrated, don't get heat stroke.
Welp, it's break time for some while others decide to keep working. Macroich is going down to the beach to play around with some of the Creators.
Christine: Imix, Hecate is a beginner. You should teach her more gently, like a phantom.
Cipactli: Feh, no mercy. I support going by the law of natural selection.
Christine: Oh my. Hecate, I will guide your hands and feet from behind then.
Hecate: OH NO BOTH SOUND LIKE THEY SUCK
MC: Yeah, Christine sounds like a micromanager. What should I do?

Leib: Damn, Hecate's really into practicing. It's cool if you work hard too, but be sure to take a break sometime. In fact, why not lie down in that shade?
MC: How about we nap together? / Can I cuddle up? / Wait, someone's there
---
(AB) Leib: Sure. Let me show you the ways of slacking off.
---
Leib: ...wait, someone's there already? Slack off buddies.
It's Boogeyman, and he looks up from his phone or whatever.
Boogeyman: I'm on break, not slacking off, okay...?
Leib: Oh, you could hear me? And slacking off is awesome. And it's even better when someone else is working hard.
MC: You're on break? / I didn't know we get a signal down here / ARE YOU DATING SOMEONE!?
(AB) Boogeyman: My students were calling, so I picked up.
(C) Boogeyman: N-No! I just got a call from my students!

Leib: Wow, your students must like you to call you on vacation. My labmates run when they see me.
Boogeyman: Haha, well they weren't afraid of me to begin with, but I'm still glad. I showed them a picture of this place when they asked what I was doing, then they complained about being left out.
Leib: Heh, it does look like a resort here. Hey MC, how about we send pics to Alp and the others too? Swimsuit pics and stuff.
MC: He's gonna be so jealous / You are so bad~ / Uh, we're here to work
Leib: They've been worrying about you since we can't talk about the musical, so this should make them chill. But then again if we just send pics, they'll think we're playing around and try to come along. Wanna ask the Entertainers if that's okay? You can go ask Imix.
Leib gets up. Seems he really is going to take pics on the beach.

Boogeyman: ...hmm. Maybe I'll come too and ask Imix for acting tips.
Leib: Damn, can no one chill around here? I'm totally taking a nap after pics.
Boogeyman: I need to get used to going on stage rather than trying to stop myself.
MC: Huh, surprising. You don't have any problems going wild when telling kids off, and isn't that acting?
Boogeyman: Macroich also told me that whenever I'm doing that I put a bag on my head. Hiding my identity makes me feel braver, like I'm someone else. And I kinda am someone else then, and it'd be nice if I can work together better. Maybe children won't be as scared of me if I do my usual thing without the bag.
Boogeyman realizes he's lowered his voice and smiles like a freak.
Boogeyman: Okay bye. See you at practice later, whooo~
Leib: ...let's get going then, MC.

Later
Leib and MC go to the beach for pics of Leib.
Leib: Heh, I can imagine how they'll look already when they see this.
There's allegedly pics of MC too that they send in. Not even five seconds later...
Leib: Wow they're calling already? That was fast. How about you answer?
Leib hands his phone over without waiting for an answer.
Alp: WAAAAAAH
Eardrums shaking.
Alp: MC you told me you were going for work but it looks like you're playing around!
MC: u mad / Not telling you where I am! / I'm on break now

Alp: Waaah! I wanna play with you too!
Leib: I guess we could ask the owner if you guys could come?
Alp: Promise? I hope you use your pay for a resort vacation for all us Ueno members!
Look, the other Ueno members are coming over to talk.
Cu Sith: MC? I saw the pictures! You look like you're having fun!
Fenrir: SINNERS! Hell is too good for the likes of you two, gallivanting in the pleasure gardens alone!
Pazuzu: Hmm, I sense that you're hiding something. You met a big cute lizard, didn't you? I can tell!
MC: Tee hee, secret / Damn he's sharp / Oh no the signal is breaking up oh nooo

Pazuzu: Hey, isn't everyone interested in finding out if the sewer gator rumor is true?
Hastur: That's just you. If such a thing were real, it would have eaten these puny fools already.
Yuma: ...I'm glad you two seem okay since you wouldn't tell us what you were doing.
Leib: Sorry about that, Yuma. Client's orders.
Jambavan: MC-senpai, is Leib-senpai working you to the bone?
MC: He's super dependable / He's actually working like oh my god / Yes...
---
(AB) Leib elbows MC and coughs.
---
The Ueno members ask if they can come too.
Leib: Okay gotta go now, bye guys.
Alp: Don't forget to ask if we can come!
Leib: Yeah yeah, no promises. We're on break now too.
Everyone says bye and hangs up.
Leib: Welp, good luck fielding questions tonight. I'mma head back and lie down, tell Cipactli for me.
And so MC heads off to find Cipactli and Boogeyman.

Later
Boogeyman: Wasn't Imix around here...?
Look, there he is.
Cipactli: Hm? What is it?
Boogeyman: Would you help me practice acting?
Cipactli: Okay, but I think you'll be fine. You just aren't used to acting without a mask on.
Boogeyman thinks it's weird that Cipactli doesn't seem interested and tries again with his script out.
Boogeyman: Um, teach me your tricks?
Cipactli: Just get used to it. I don't have any specific advice for you.
Boogeyman: But you gave so much to Hecate!
Cipactli: Because it was natural that I teach her. I've nothing to teach you.
Boogeyman: Pleeeease?
Cipactli: You aren't an amateur. You know how this works.

Boogeyman: Pretty please with a cherry on top? I've been a fan since your debut!
Cipactli: Wow that's a long time. Then you should already be aware that as a current non-pro I can't teach you anything.
Boogeyman: ...so something happened?
...
Boogeyman: I can tell something changed. It didn't get worse, but you seem like someone else now. Like being on stage hurts--
Cipactli: SHUT UP
People start coming over to see what's up. Cipactli whispers to Boogeyman.
Cipactli: There's nothing for me to say to someone with the courage to go on stage without a mask. Unfortunately for you...I can't act like I did back then.
Boogeyman sees Cipactli in his earlier days uncomfortable on stage in him right now and stops talking...

Flashback!
This is when Cipactli first started going by Imix. It wasn't that long after he came to Tokyo.
Christine: You fear being known as a kaiju. It's okay, you can be like that on stage. We can even give you a new mask and role if you want. No wait, you probably won't need that since no one's ever seen your face. You are a great kaiju who can reach the clouds just by standing, someone as big as nature itself. Which is why I'm here to recruit you! Want to join the Entertainers? That way you can be someone who isn't the world threatening beast Cipactli.
Cipactli (narrating): I could be up front as Imix. Those days were fun like a dream, but they didn't last long.
Present
Boogeyman: ...so something did happen.
Cipactli closes his eyes and seems to be trying to remember something.
Boogeyman: When I first saw you, you were playing as a fearsome kaiju. You weren't just scaring people, you were having fun for some other reason. It was a shock to me given that scaring people was my thing.
Cipactli: Huh. Life must've been hard for you too.
Boogeyman: Haha, well it was also me being myself.

Boogeyman puts on his bag mask and activates his artifact, taking Cipactli into his Reality Marble.
Cipactli: ...huh. I'm impressed you could take all of me.
Boogeyman: I figured you didn't want anyone else to hear.
Cipactli: Thanks for your consideration, but I don't have anything else to say.
Boogeyman: It's cool. As a fan I'd like to talk to my favorite star some more.
Cipactli: Indulging fans is good and all, but kidnapping is kind of crossing a line. (sighs and looks around)
Cipactli: I'm reminded of a musical about fairy kings arguing over which kidnapped children belonged to whom. You look like you could give the God of a Thousand Forms a run for his money!
Boogeyman: I think there's a fairy tale like that in Tir na Nog. Maybe it's the original story. Lots of stories about super mean fairies get whitewashed and prettied up.
Cipactli: Aren't Leib and Hecate from there too? They don't seem to be the super mean type.
Boogeyman: Everyone changes like changelings when going to another world. If nothing else, everyone in Tir na Nog was afraid of fairies. I'd never have believed I'd be a teacher for little children if you told me back then, hehe.

Cipactli seems sympathetic.
Boogeyman: Tokyo is so weird and surprising. Horror attractions and movies make horror into entertainment, and I have a bond with children I'd never have dreamed of back in my home world. Now I believe my power might be able to do something besides traumatize people someday.
Ghosts pop up behind Cipactli! Boogeyman laughs and says they're part of his cast in a haunted house thingy as he takes the bag off.
Boogeyman: Maybe the musical show will help me think of something. I have to thank MC for inviting me on board...
Cipactli: ...right, you and Hecate are half forcing yourselves. I hope you find some meaning in this.
Boogeyman: Christine would say the stage is the art of possibilities, but I think of Tokyo as a stage too. I know you're afraid of something, but I think you're okay.
Cipactli frowns.
Boogeyman: Hehe, that's all I wanted to say. Thanks for what you made me feel before, and I hope you get to see the passion you've forgotten.
Cipactli: I bet people tell you that you nag for forever. Don't be like your students.
Boogeyman: Too late.
Boogeyman laughs. Cipactli laughs back, amazed.
End of Episode Part

Live A Hero Rakusai Travelogue Episode 3 (Abridged)

Kouki is standing Somewhere in Shinraku, waiting for someone. A lady comes up, all foggy and indistinct, but Kouki knows who she is.
Kouki: Mom!
Suddenly, faceless phantoms whispering!
Kouki: Hey! Get away from Mom and stop telling her fake news!
Kouki tries to keep his Mom from listening to them.
Mom?: My son can't be someone so rude and mouthy.
The faceless phantoms disappear.
MC: Kouki? / Wake up! / (shake Kouki)
Kouki: AHH! Huh? ...the inn?

Yeah, Kouki was dreaming. We're at the point where the party went to bed after checking their plans. Kouki asked to room with MC so he could stop acting at all for a second.
MC: Are you okay? You were mumbling a lot. (offers water)
Kouki: Thanks. I was just dreaming...
Yup. Just a dream. Just all his stresses and emotions blowing up from his subconscious the moment he closes his eyes.
Kouki: I can't believe that gossip rag shit is bugging me all the way into my dreams!
MC: That was awful... / Tell us how you really feel! / People outside are gonna hear.
(A) Kouki: Oh, you saw it too? Yeah... lies and slander!
(B) Kouki: ...nah, someone outside could hear me. This sucks!
(C) Kouki: UGH having to think about all this sucks!

Kouki: Fine! Stress eating time!
MC: I brought you breakfast. That'd be easier, right? Should I call Gammei and Tsuneaki over?
Kouki: Oh, thanks MC! But let's not call them over yet. I only just met Tsuneaki, so he hasn't seen me off camera. So please...let's keep it this way until it's time to go.
MC: Okay / Tee hee, you can be such a kid
---
(C) Kouki: You'll never hear the end of it if you tell anyone.
---
Kouki: Ooh, what's the inn's food like? They even made food for Sirius. Remind me to thank Gammei later for setting this up...why are you staring at me?
MC: Thanks for relying on me / I'm glad you aren't holding it all in. You can talk to me if you want.
---
(A) Kouki: You're weird. But...thanks.
(BC) Kouki: Hey! Stop treating me like a kid! I know I can talk to you if I need to! ...I mean, I do trust you and all.
---
And so Kouki and MC spent some time together. Once Kouki is done, he puts his polite boy self back on again.

Later
The party regroups in Gammei and Tsuneaki's room.
Tsuneaki: Hey y'all, welcome to Shinraku! I'm your guide, Tsuneaki~!
Gammei: Yeah yeah, now guide us to the crime scene already.
Tsuneaki: Aww, you're no fun...but I know this is serious business. Anyways, you meant where I saw the ghost mikoshi? Not like I had any other ideas.
Gammei: Yeah. If we run into Monsters along the way, we'll have to kick their asses.
Kouki: Please lead the way, Tsuneaki!
Sirius: bark!

Outside
Tsuneaki: Okay, this should be it. And now that I think about it...
Gammei: It's close to where yesterday's Monster attack was. It must be a Monster then!
MC: I don't sense anything now. Are mikoshi Monsters a thing? (looks around)
Gammei: Eh, there's all kinds of Monsters. One looking like a Monster would have an easier time attacking people.
Tsuneaki: Sounds like a predator. Think it could camouflage itself like a chameleon too?
Kouki: But MC just said they didn't sense anything.
Gammei: (Hmm. Or the Monster could just jump to a parallel world and hide. If Tsuneaki isn't bringing it up, is doing so a problem for him? Or does he not know that's a thing?)
Gammei: ...we should investigate some more.
Tsuneaki: Yeah. It might just be a coincidence instead of a big case happening...

Some street
Rando: Oh no, don't talk about the rumor! People are already staying away and this is the first time we've heard of someone disappearing! Why did this have to happen now...? Are the neighbors involved?
Random rants from randos en route to reaching out to the truth.
MC: who
Rando: The people in the next city over. Always looking down on us.
Kouki: You mean, Kyoto?
Rando: Yep. They never join in on our festival. They just heckle us for being immigrants, been doing so for 100 years now.
Gammei: ...so this isn't just a personal level thing.
Gammei looks serious.

Rando: We're really trying to integrate into Earth and Japan! But all they got to say is "whatever, don't talk to me, bitch."
Tsuneaki: (stares)
The rando finally walks off.
MC: Huh...so, they're arguing with the neighbors? What happened?
Kouki: Do other Shinraku people feel the same way?
Tsuneaki: Unfortunately, yeah. Shinraku's got some interesting history to its founding back when Monsters first started appearing on Earth. The older the residents, the bigger the racism.
Gammei: Really? I could never see that happening in Orient City. Is it just one way?
Tsuneaki: No, both ways. Can't get into it here though. You can talk to Kyotoites if you're interested, but I don't recommend it.
Gammei: I'm not feeling up to sticking my nose into everyone's business, but I might find clues if I do though...
MC: Let's try going, Gammei / Kouki, you okay? / Tsuneaki, are you alright...?
(A) Gammei: Right. But Tsuneaki, would it be bad for you to be there?
Tsuneaki: Oh my god are you actually worried about me???
(B) Kouki: I'm fine, thank you for worrying. But Tsuneaki...
Tsuneaki: Aww, are you worrying about meee?
(C) Tsuneaki: Aww, you're so nice MC~

Tsuneaki: ...okay sorry I'll take this more seriously, so you can stop staring at me now. So I'll be fine if I go, but I think they'll open up if there ISN'T someone from Shinraku with you. I can wait elsewhere, but are you okay with leaving me on my own yet?
Gammei: Hmm. I'll go ask around in Kyoto alone then.
Tsuneaki: Hey, isn't this the part where you say "okay, but only for now"!?
Gammei: You haven't done a damn thing to make yourself less guilty looking, so you better be happy I'm even letting you out of my sights! Sorry you two, stay with him and call me if anything happens.
MC: Tsuneaki's cool / I'll look after Kouki / I have an alarm
(A) Tsuneaki: Aww, you believe me? Thank yo--wait, is your plan having Kouki transform and beat me up if I try anything funny!?
(B) Kouki: Thank you, MC. Sirius and I will protect you too.
Tsuneaki: Could y'all stop assuming I'll try pulling something?
(C) Tsuneaki: Why? ...one of your friends gave it to you earlier? What?

Tsuneaki: Meh, fine. Since there's no restrictions on what to do, how about we all hang out at a cafe you guys?
Gammei: Is he not bothered at all? Ugh, whatever. Better that than getting jerked around everywhere.
And so the party takes a train north. Gammei heads off to do his thing while everyone else goes to a cafe.
Kouki: Is it really that bad if someone from Shinraku makes them not want to talk?
Tsuneaki: Well, less hands throwing and more refusing to listen. How about a history lesson?
Elsewhere
Old Lady A: Ghost rumors? In Shinraku? Meh, even if it's real who cares?
Gammei: (She's heard but she's playing dumb. Damn, they hate Shinraku people that much?)
Gammei: Sorry about bringing up something weird, I just came in from out of town. On that note, what's your damage with Shinraku?
Old Lady A: (slight hesitation) Them immigrants squatting on that empty land. Lots of us think that 'round here.
Gammei: Wait, so Shinraku is...
Old Lady A: Right, you got it. Did you have to make me say it? Now let me tell you a story from my old uncle when I was a little girl...

Title Card: Three Walks Searching for Mikoshi

Cafe
Tsuneaki: So like way back when? The land Shinraku was on was razed by a Monster. It used to be famous for sake, but then it all got destroyed. The world was really busy with all the crises happening, so rebuilding got pushed back on the agenda. There was nothing to build with and no money to buy materials with, so most cities just stayed stomped into the ground...so our ancestors figured they might as well fix it themselves.
MC: what
Kouki: ...isn't that a good thing?
Tsuneaki: For some people. But the world's complicated so there were other people who didn't think so.
Wherever in Kyoto
Old Lady A: Those alien weebs moved in and copied Japanese architecture and made Shinraku. They wanted to remake things, so they bought the land. It's not like they did any crimes in making it happen. Maybe they even thought they were helping rebuild the country. Not like that stops some people from resenting them and having to sell the land they lived on for generations to start their lives over.

Cafe
Tsuneaki: The Kyotoites think the aliens who moved in as the people who took away their chance to rebuild their homes.
MC: ...oh / That happened...? / (stay quiet)
---
(A) Tsuneaki: Sorry you two. This depressing stuff would've been better off only locals knew about.
(B) Tsuneaki: Yeah, it's old news to you guys. And I get why you'd wanna talk about it.
---
Kouki: (frown)
Tsuneaki: So I said this happened a hundred years ago, but...
Old Lady's home or something
Old Lady A: It's not like we WANT to keep hating on Shinraku folks. Even if everyone who was there is dead now, there's still people here bitching about their lost futures. And sometimes a hundred years isn't enough for old grudges and racism to die out.
Gammei frowns.
Old Lady A: ...anyways, whatever happens in Shinraku should stay in Shinraku.
The old lady looks away. She knows how awful she sounds.

Gammei: ...I sort of know how you feel, lady. I'm from Chiba.
Old Lady A: Past Minami Kanto? Oof, life was hard for you.
Gammei: Yeah. Monsters cut the place off into no man's land. No one came to attack us, but no one came to help either. The government sent supplies sometimes, and also a ton of papers suggesting we move out. Not many people wanted to. It wasn't our fault things got the way they did. We knew they meant well, but it felt like they were trying to take our homes away.
Old Lady A: ...yeah. It's why we never got over it and moved on. Whatever we chose to do didn't involve the neighbors, good or bad. It's how we coexisted.
The old lady smiles in thanks at Gammei.
Gammei: Thanks for telling me. Sorry to keep you so long.
Gammei calls the party to regroup. Everyone heads to the station and goes back to Shinraku.

Later
Gammei: I hate thinking about it, but you were right about both sides having their opinions, Tsuneaki.
Tsuneaki: You met someone good, huh? There be some racists who don't know a thing of the past. But yeah, that's how Shinraku and Kyoto relations are.
Gammei: No, the lady I met said they don't involve themselves with Shinraku, so it's probably not about the land dispute thing. Both sides came to a settlement, so there's no reason for any locals to try wiping the others with Monsters if they're in agreement.
Kouki: But Monsters are uncontrollable...right MC?
MC: Yeah, far as I know.
Tsuneaki: Oh...no clues then. And here I was, hoping we'd find the culprit quick and prove my innocence. Hello, whoever you are come out and confess you did it, thanks~! Kidding.
Static. EEEVIL!
MC: ...Monster alert! Tsuneaki!?

Tsuneaki: NO WAIT NOT NOW WHILE IT'D LOOK LIKE ME
Gammei: Stop messing with us you stupid cat! Ugh, first the Monster. Kouki, put this on! MC, transform me!
Gammei gives the Parallel Cue plot device to Kouki and tells him about the variant search function it has. Kouki puts it on.
Phone: Compatible reference vision Path detected. Connect?
MC: It's finally working / Hope it helps... / Execute!
Click. Blue light covers Gammei and Kouki... Ta-da! Variant Gammei and Kouki!
Kouki: Wow, this looks just like the festival clothes the townspeople are wearing! Nice!
Gammei: It worked to order. Reminds me of the festival coats I used to wear back home. Hisaki and Crowne did great, but so did Maculata on the designing.
Kouki: She did!? Oh...
Gammei and Kouki check their stuff out. Tsuneaki looks different for a second.
Tsuneaki: >:|
Tsuneaki: Like oh my god you guys are wearing totally different suits! Heroes can do that!?
MC: Not really / So there's this inventor and... / They have two more forms!
(B) Gammei: Don't tell him! Let's go!
(C) Gammei: Stop joking! Let's go!

The party heads over to where MC senses the Monster! It's in some back alley about to eat someone!
Sirius: Bark bark!
The shrine rope shoots blades of light at the Monster!
Monster: REEEEE
Sirius pulls a blade out and runs back to Kouki.
Rando: AHH! Why's the mikoshi moving!?
Kouki: It's the ghost mikoshi I saw before!
Tsuneaki: It's the same one I saw too, Gammei!
Gammei: You got some talking to do after we kill it!
Kouki: Sirius, protect that civilian. Gammei and I will take the Monster down!
Sirius: Bark!
BATTLE START (more happens after)

Monster: LOVELYYYY (poof)
Gammei: Is it dead now? Cool. Hey you, you okay? You don't seem hurt.
Rando: Y-yeah, thanks. But why is a Monster turning into one of our mikoshi again!? Is that stupid rumor--
Gammei: (puts a hand on rando's shoulder) Sorry, the town bosses asked us to keep it quiet. Could you not tell anyone for now?
Tsuneaki: They're heroes here to solve the spiriting away case. But since they just beat the Monster, maybe that'll stop things?
Kouki: It would be nice...we should look around just in case. Excuse me, have you heard of any other mikoshi lying around?
The rando sighs and relaxes.
Rando: No...but I see a bunch of mikoshi in places where there aren't any plans in place. When I go call for people to help move them, they're gone when I come back.
MC: So it's not just the one? Case still open...
Gammei: MC, sense anything?
Observer senses, go!
MC: ...no, not now.
Gammei: Okay. Let's take this guy home and then do one more sweep.
End of Episode