Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Marine Resort Crisis Episode 4 Part 2 (Abridged)

The party has told Andvari they're going to the night pool party. Andvari approves.
Guy A: Welcome. Have a map of the party area.
MC thinks about where to go as they look at the map.

MC: Cool music / Pretty lights / Yummy food / Good enough? [Only available after picking at least one of the other choices]

[Party music section]
Lots of pool chairs by a place with a good view. Red carpet, musician playing and dancer dancing. And also one intense Setagaya school owner/party host.

MC: (clap for the musician) / (cheer for the dancer) / (talk to intense host) / (wander off) [only after picking at least one of the other choices]
(A) Gandharva: Thank you for--ohh, hello again o dependent of a wandering thunder. Did I ever tell you I was a Suidocho student? Meet a punk going by Taishakuten? We're friends. I'm playing music tonight just accompanying the dance, but I'm glad to see you. Especially since you came because of my music and not my musk. Let me play you a song for you to enjoy.
(B) The dancer comes over.
Barong: Welcome! Did my not-my-usual-style dance surprise you? I usually fire dance, but I know others. We have a dance club at school and I do all kinds of dances! Pleasure is different for everyone, and I want people to enjoy themselves. But I have my special dances too. Those are too intense to do in public, but maybe when we're alone. Mwah! Tokyo has its own dance competetion and I'm gonna try to win. Everyone's welcome to join! Gullinbursti's dance was great. Maybe you two can join up, think on it.
(C) Perun: Did you come to offer me trifling baubles? Because--!!--oho, where did YOU come from, fool!? I suppose the special party drinks are wasted on you! They were made from fruits grown by mine own hands! Sit and savor the sheer delicate sweetness! What, you came to offer me something? But of course you did! It is...a new song! A poem, isn't it!? I order you to come to the poetry reading that is happening later. Winner gets a hectare of farmland!

[Pretty lights section]
MC goes to a bar and food area. Fruit mocktails on offer.

MC: (order mocktail) / (ask for waiter) / (pick fruit) / (wander off) [only after picking at least one of the other choices]
(A) Thunderbird: Welcome MC! I figured you'd come. Saw you around today having some meeting in the hotel lounge. I'm part of Suidocho. It's weird teaching now after all that time I spent chasing after someone when I was younger. You working to solve the incident? You remind me of that other person I chased so much. Have a drink! (makes mocktail) Call me if you need help.
(B) Volkh: Hmm, I must practice the Tale of Igor's Campaign for customers! But how do I do it? Maybe I should ask Volos for help, but I can't be late for Lord Perun's--
MC talks to Volkh.
Volkh: Welc--YOU!? MC! I mean yes I am Count Volkh Vseslav, here on Lord Perun's orders...you want to know why I am a waiter? Heh, astute of you to ask. Customer service is part of the information and propaganda war! I am NOT standing by hoping Suidocho students will look to me for help! Now let me take you to your seat and present the finest of Setagaya products!
(C) Volos: Hi MC, been taking your vitamins? I'm here at the party as a Setagaya student. I'm so glad I can see what people think of our fruits up close here! ...have you met our school owner yet? He's...got history with my old friend. He's still raking in money, but I'm surprised he went into farming. And I'm surprised to farm with him. Anyways, pick what you like! And come visit our campus next fall for open campus if you like it.

[Yummy food area]
BBQ! Smells nice. Setagaya students here instead of Suidocho.

MC: (get meat) / (get shrooms and veg) / (watch grill) / (wander off) [only after picking at least one of the other choices]
(A) Yamasachi: MC!? What a coinkydink! Unless you came lookin' for me? Kiddin'! Ya cool? You tend to lug stuff around so I worry about ya. I can help whenever you need me. Today we party, so eat! Here, lemme cut some meat for you. (piles on meat) By the way, Shinjuku has that Zaoh guy or whoever, right? Our own mountaineering club prez has been hollerin' and screamin' about 'im. He's Himavat, got good clothes, good bod, is Mr. Popular, and he been callin' you Zaoh's heir or whatevs. Like, okay? Careful goin' up the mountains! Even if I am rangering to keep things safe, haha!
(B) Gullinbursti: Oh, Master! Welcome! I'm cooking mountain veggies I picked up! I lean mostly into eating greens, so I recommend the mushrooms. Take as many as you want! (starts piling a plate for MC) Oh yeah, sometimes I come across Shinjuku's mountaineering club. You have friends there, right? You know Durga? She apparently has a rival with our own school's mountaineering club, but I heard it happened because our club's captain sent a challenge letter to Shinjuku's club president. I'm not in the club, but I hear they're gearing up for the next competition. Rivals are great!
(C) Asterios: MC...? How are you? I've been hanging up in the mountains but Robinson dragged me over today, so I figured I'd bring charcoal for the BBQ. A classmate burns the lumber I chop up, except they said they hate parties and shut themselves up in their workshop. (cooks and salts shish kabobs) By the way, you know Chernobog? We're friends now. Also the school coal miner Jersey Devil knows him? Careful if you go up the mountains. Why can't they just get along?

Break time! Oh look, some of the party members are by the pool.
MC: (talk to Dagon) / (talk to Arslan) / (talk to Behemoth)
(A) Dagon's lying on a lounge chair, apparently asleep. MC decides to leave but Dagon's tentacle drags them back and onto him.
Dagon: Hello. It's weird having you wake me up since you're supposed to be asle--oh sorry, never mind me MC. Dreaming of old times. Memories of when I was Dagon, the father. Someone just like me, but not. I guess that different is why the sunken city was destroyed. (strokes MC's nape) But that's why I understand Reprobus's feelings as I am now, seeking a master that doesn't exist. His artifact carries his master's burdens, and without a master his role seems unfulfillable. As a teacher I wish I could help, but this incident comes first. Then I'll try talking to him again. This is what they call tempting fate, isn't it? Truth can be stranger than fiction. I look forward to what comes next.
(B) Arslan: Hey cub, wanna talk oil wrestling? Kidding! (laughs, then looks at MC) Something on your mind? Hmm, wanna hear me talk? (invites MC to sit next to him) ...everyone wants to be helpful. Everyone fears being alone. That's where faith and kingdoms come from as people come to gather and bind themselves. Honestly I don't get Reprobus's feelings since I was the one served. But I still carried other people's wishes. Only God can pick up his own responsibilities. Actually maybe not even.
The omnipotence paradox!
[cont.]

Arslan: Reprobus is getting crushed by his own expectations. Would finding a savior for him actually help? No, they're gonna die one day, so Reprobus's dream of a forever job is fit for a god. I started thinking about something when I wandered around Tokyo. How do burdens get passed on? I still don't know. (thinks about his old kingdom) But, I came to an idea as one of Solomon's Inheritors. (pulls out sword) I chose to carry this on, and I haven't thought of asking someone ask to carry it for me. I want people to go on without this burden, and I hope Reprobus does too.
(C) Behemoth: Hey MC! Let's get a mega parfait together!
That is a bucket sized parfait Behemoth has invited MC to share with.

Behemoth: Sharing makes everything great ever since I can finally taste! It's weird how anything's good if it's all yummy. I'm glad I got another of these parfaits!
There's that hanging "but" incoming.

Behemoth: Is it really okay for us to chill when we came to solve the shark incident? I mean, we got tons of good stuff at lunch too. This is the part where things blow up in movies! But if sharks attack, I won't let them eat you because you're my--uh, nothing. I'll tell you after it's all done with! Let's have a party when that happens with the teachers and Reprobus! We should get into a strategy meeting again along with searching for Reprobus's Master!

Hey, where is Reprobus anyway?
MC: (check the party area) / (check the hotel) / eh, we'll see him soon
---
(A) No luck.
(B) No luck.
(C) Let's keep talking to the rest of the party.
---
Some time later, Reprobus is found in the water play area.

Reprobus: Status check on the things, ongoing...
Reprobus is walking along the beach and fiddling with his phone.

MC: Oh there you are / Be safe, eyes up! / Sorry we partied without you
(B) Reprobus: Oh, right. Sorry.
(C) Reprobus: It's cool. Work never ends in water safety.

Reprobus: Something happen?
MC: So serious / Not gonna come to the party? / Go take a break, I can switch with you
---
(A) Reprobus: Yep, always working. But...
(B) Reprobus: Nah, my job is to make it so people can enjoy the party. It's also what I'll do for my Master someday. But...
(C) Reprobus: Thanks for caring, temp master. I'm still okay though, but...
---
Reprobus: Why can't I still find a forever job?
Reprobus has been acting different since lunch today. Maybe even earlier. MC thinks...
Flashback!

Dagon: Maybe you work so you don't have to think about your own problems.

Someone is coming over.
Gullinbursti: There you are Reprobus...and Master! I came looking for you two. Did you not like the party?
Reprobus: I never went. Why'd you come?
Gullinbursti: We are friends and rivals now, even if you're only serving temporarily. Of course I'd worry about you.
MC: Lively rivals are better / Maybe don't compete? / (watch)
(A) Gullinbursti: Yeah! Just like you and Thor!
(B) Gullinbursti: Sometimes having a rival helps you get better. That's what I learned!

Gullinbursti: I challenge you, Reprobus!
Reprobus: !?
MC: WHAT / down, bad boar / are you trying to make a point physically?
Reprobus: Challenge me to what?
Gullinbursti: I'm stupider than you, but I can at least show you what a friend showed me. You and me, one on one!
MC: the meathead method ain't bad I guess / goddamn jock / are you trying to flex on him
Gullinbursti looks so excited.
Reprobus: ...I know some things are easier to learn through doing rather than thinking. Okay, I'll take you on!
MC: same brain / whatever happened to you being smart!? / no fighting
(C) Reprobus nods.

Reprobus: No problem solving with violence. Servant battle!
Gullinbursti: Agreed. Meaning...
Reprobus and Gullinbursti: SERVICE BATTLE, BEST OF THREE
MC: what / yeah, same brain
Reprobus and Gullinbursti: Protecting a master also includes serving from day to day!
MC: uhh? / can I go home / are you two reading from the same script?
Gullinbursti: Ready, Reprobus!?
Reprobus: Ready!
Reprobus and Gullinbursti: AAAAAA (runs off)
MC: Where are you running!? That's the party area! Tell me what the hell is supposed to be happening!
BATTLE(?) START (more happens later)

Reprobus (narrating): This is a memory from some time. Or maybe it's a daydream. I THINK I'm supposed to carry a savior on my back past...something. He was as heavy as the world, and my serving him totally has to be, like, fate or something. I don't know when or if, and it blows my mind. I hope it comes true, but I also say it can't happen because I remember being ordered to smash a city. But...did Kitezh have a city like that? Maybe if a pillar or fixed memory could solve it for me? When I got summoned to Tokyo I tried to be perfect. I figured if I was the best servant, I'd find the master for me.
Reprobus from Eden came from a people known to have Monstrous Strength. And before he came to Tokyo he never really thought for himself as he spent all his time serving under a hierarchy. So what would he be like under all that?
Present

Reprobus and Gullinbursti: AAAAAA
A meathead.

Reprobus and Gullinbursti: LET ME TAKE YOUR DIRTY PLATE
The two keep running back and forth with plates without dropping a single one. People are impressed.

MC: Wow, where'd you learn to do that!? Wait where are you going

Randos think this is some unlisted event activity, which fires Reprobus and Gullinbursti even more. Both run into the hotel's employee area.
Guy A: WHOMST ...oh, you bringing in dirty dishes? Cool thanks.
Guy B: Washing machine's over there. What doesn't fit can go into the sink ov--wait WHAT
Reprobus: Gullinbursti! What do you do if your Master's home has no washing machine!?
Gullinbursti: Wash things by hand just as fast!
Reprobus: Same brain!
Reprobus and Gullinbursti: AAAAAA
Reprobus is feeling good for once, not worrying about things.

Guy A and B: OH NO THE DISHES!
RIP dishware.

MC: I have to stop them! By force I guess. Hello Andvari?
And so Reprobus and Gullinbursti's servant contest ends as MC, kitchen randos, and Andvari stop the thing.

Reprobus and Gullinbursti: ...sorry.
MC: So what're we gonna do about the broken dishes? / You didn't have to wash them / okay, just sit there and think about what you did
---
(A) Reprobus: We didn't break the dishes. They just couldn't handle our strength.
Gullinbursti: !? Wait, he's right!
(BC) Reprobus: I didn't expect trying to not make a strength contest would turn out this way...
Gullibursti: Oh, does that mean we shouldn't have kept it all in the kitchen!?
---
MC: that's a dumb argument / oh no he makes sense / omg stop???
Reprobus and Gullinbursti are kneeling on the beach.

Gullibursti: Sooo, what do we call that?
Reprobus: ...I think I learned competing with someone is a chance to learn new perspectives.
MC: So you know what a rival is now? / reasoning aside, how was it? / how formal

Reprobus thought of things and relationships as a means of finding his master, which is why he answered so rationally. But that's just him choosing to carry on too much since wanting to carry a savior and thinking there are things he just has to carry are different things.
Gullinbursti: I know we just caused problems, but I had fun competing against you! I'd be fine with how our match would've gone either way if it went on. You?
A bit of Reprobus's hidden feelings are let loose.

Reprobus: ...I'm not happy, so I want to challenge you again. I don't know why I felt the way I did, so I want to try again.
MC: Sounds like a nice experience. You had fun. Isn't that nice, Gullinbursti?
Gullinbursti: ...it was a great time!
Reprobus: ...thank you, you two. You gave me something I couldn't have found alone. I promise to help you even after this incident is done with.
Gullinbursti: HE'S MUSCLING IN ON MY TURF! Master, please allow me to keep serving you!
It's getting late. Bed time!
Reprobus: ...no one could stop me before, even among the people I talked to. But MC tried to stop me from going overboard. Hmm, someone who can control power, understand situations, need me--nah, it's probably nothing. I'll just recheck after our temp contract is up.
Narration Zone

Solomon: OH MY GOD THAT TECH BARRIER! ...but didn't that blow up in that movie we saw? Next time on Marine Resort Crisis, Episode 5, "It's--
Suddenly sharkbot!

Solomon: OH NO MASTER HELP MEEEEE
End of Episode

Marine Resort Crisis Episode 4 Part 1 (Abridged)

Gullinbursti (narrating): S'up dudes, I'm Gullinbursti. I was made to be a body double for my master Freyr, except he gave me his Sword of Victory and died first. So then I came to Tokyo and trained at a farming and ranger school. I have a new Master now, and maybe next time I can help them if I'm faster. But then I saw someone just like me that made me rethink things about myself. Like, where am I trying to go so fast? If I end up the same way as Freyr, I'm not really getting somewhere the fastest because he already went that way. What about my own way...?

Present
Behemoth: MC HELP
The party is back at Andvari's hotel.

Reprobus: Master, why are you running!?
Behemoth: Since when was I your Master!?
Reprobus: It looks just like you have the power to multiply food and give it to people, just like the savior I'm looking for!
Reprobus manages to outrun Behemoth and cut him off!

Reprobus: Everyone likes you! You tanked all those sharks! And you didn't kill them when you hit back! Your humility! You're my forever Master!
Behemoth: BRO WHAT
MC: welp / Stay boy! / We're supposed to be strategizing here

Arslan: Damn, things are getting rough.
Dagon: Behemoth now, huh? He sure thinks highly of him.
MC and Gullinbursti pull Behemoth and Gullinbursti apart.

Behemoth: Uh, thanks bro, but I don't think I'm your Master. Let's just be friends!
Reprobus looks surprised, hesitates, then agrees.

Reprobus: ...okay, no forcing people into things.
Behemoth: I'm no savior. Friends just help each other.
Reprobus: Oh. Okay. Not savior, got it. You taught me what friends mean.
Behemoth: Yay! Let's continue the meeting!
Reprobus sits on a sofa. Behemoth and MC sit on either side.

Tvastar: Hey everybody, I'm Tvastar, with Vritra! I'm a biomechanic with the Crafters.
Hephaestus: I-I'm Kamata's roboticist, Hephaestus. Um, Mommy?
Tvastar: In monster movies, this is the part where the cavalry comes in with a new weapon. Speaking of weapons, aren't escalating mutations and mods great? The possibilities from our collabing!
MC: Start feeling bad, Tvastar! / Stand in the corner, Hephaestus / The instigators have surrendered
(A) Tvastar: Haha, my bad. Life always finds a way!
(B) Hephaestus: B-but Mommy, it wasn't all me!

Tvastar: Exposition time!
Hephaestus: O-okay, so we analyzed the pompadour head and flying shark bots, and those are the same kind of mods the original helpy shark bot had
Tvastar: Which is weird because I took them off after Heph whined at me. Maybe the bot recorded it to memory?
Dagon: So, modding instead of evolution from outside pressure.
Hephaestus: I-I think so too. It just picked the best possibilities it had. Like the head piece after being slammed into a rock and the flying parts after getting caught by tentacles.
Dagon: So, AI learning?
Tvastar: For now, I guess. Maybe it'll evolve again in the sea while we're over here.
MC: Any ideas? / He just casually drops a bomb on us like that / what
---
(C) Hephaestus: O-oh no! I'm sorry for being bad at explaining, Mommy! I'll make it easier!
---
Hephaestus: F-first, we gotta think about preventing damage to the resort.
Tvastar: Check out all the stuff we brought!

Later
Dagon: Can you two hear me? We're testing the thing now.
Dagon's on his boat. Reprobus and Gullinbursti are in the water.

Andvari: Let's do it! It keeps sharks from coming by land or sea, right?
MC: Damn, that's good / what did that manual say / the thing has a stupid name
(B) Arlsan looks over MC's shoulder.
(C) Behemoth: I think the thing has a cool name!

Arslan: Uhh, machine uses electric currents to stimulate the sharkbot's ampullae of Lorenzini analogs and induces avoidant behavior. Uhh??? It makes them go away I think? Got it!
Andvari: I talked with the government to get permission to set up more of the things on land. The other Crafters put them up! Time to test them then. Also we have other plans for sharks so this should be good.
MC: We got equipment to look at too. And bombs or some throwing stuff? / Andvari seems to be in a good mood
---
(C) Andvari: You can tell? I was gonna bitch to the Crafters, but they're paying me back for lost business and setting up the safety stuff, so I can focus on making back all that money!
---
Gullinbursti: I will not be outdone by new items! Dwarf, modify me! ...what do you mean you don't have Item Creation (Smithing) as a skill? What kind of dwarf are you?
Andvari: Racist!
Tvastar: WHO SAID MODIFY? Hey how about I make those pecs and hips twice as big?
MC: Oh no! / No modding! / Hmm...
Behemoth: Oh yeah, the Crafters told us to come to the hotel penthouse once we're done, so let's go when Reprobus and Gullinbursti come back!

Later
Tvastar: Cool, thanks for helping with the test!
Hephaestus: T-this should keep sharks away from the resort. Now look at this.
Hephaestus projects something from his phone. Tablet. Something. It's a map of the resort with a bunch of red dots on it.
MC: Are those all sharks!? And the one original...
Hephaestus: Y-yes, those are all sharks. Now he's a map after we used the shark repellant machines in the sea.
Behemoth: The sharks moved away!
Dagon: It looks like they'll come back.
Arslan: Huh. So you guys made something for that?
Hephaestus signals Talos to bring out a big luggage case.

Party: WHAT

Harnesses for everyone!
MC: Looking cool, guys! / I'm kind of embarrassed by this harness I'm apparently in / So, what's the point?
Hephaestus: This is the Anti-Shark Bot Equipment I made with Tvastar, the Shark Hunter!
Reprobus: A harpoon? And an air tank?
Behemoth: Oh! I saw it in the movies! It's a bomb you throw into shark's mouth.
Hephaestus: This one is filled with robot disassembly frags. The harpoon causes forced shutdown.
Tvastar: It works anywhere, but it works faster if you hit closer to the head.
Hephaestus: The harnesses have shark repellent vibes like the things too.
Gullinbursti: Thanks. Time to go take down the sharks!
Hephaestus: R-right, our radar can pick up on them if you use it.
Arslan: What, should we just go rout them all now or something?
Dagon: We could, but we don't know how many sharks there are. Might be better to go after the boss shark making them all.
Beep beep!

Hephaestus: O-outside, incoming shark!

MC: It's coming straight at us! / is the thing not working? / (ready harpoon)
Hephaestus: I-it's okay. I don't know why that one's fine but--
Shark: REEEEE
The shark gets hit by a thunder beam and falls down!

Tvastar: I put anti-air lasers on the shark repellent machine things!
Hephaestus: N-nothing I made is gonna mess up Mommy's seas!
MC: Cool / omg Hephaestus calm down! / Tvastar you just love laser beams don't you
---
(B) Hephaestus: I-It's okay Mommy. The lasers only shoot sharks and only when they won't fall on people.
(C) Tvastar: Tee hee, not that much...what do you mean that wasn't a compliment? Have a stamina drink!
---
Hephaestus: R-right, you see the sharks won't get close to the resort. Tvastar and I will work on the radar so we can find the boss, so sit back until then.

Later
Barong: Oh? MC! Wow, nice seeing you! You staying here?
MC: You're doing well / what was that greeting again / Working today?
---
(A) Barong: Yep! Last day of training activities for me!
(B) Barong: Om Swastyastu! Here's a kiss!
(C) Barong: Nah, been doing school work for Suidocho. If I were working, I could've taken you to your rooms. Oh well!
---
Barong: But yeah, I'm a Suidocho student! (poses) I've been waitering and serving drinks.
MC: I see.
Barong: I haven't been on stage long enough and my kouhai went off for idol wo--HEY, you look like a jock who want to strut their stuff!
Gullinbursti: Yes, I do like people appreciating my body.
Barong: How about we dance on stage together?
MC: what / where / me too!

Barong: Hey MC, you free tonight? Oh I'm not offering special services this time. We're reopening this hotel's garden pool for a night pool party. Joint event between Suidocho hotel and bartenders and Setagaya's students. Andvari said the sharks will be no problem tonight so why not? And you can still dance if you want! Make all the tips!
MC: Okay! / What about you guys? / Isn't Setagaya...?
(A) Behemoth: A party!? FOOD!
(B) Dagon: Sounds like a good time to relax while nothing's happening.
(C) Arslan: Oh yeah, doesn't Gullinbursti go there?

Gullinbursti: ...OH NO THAT'S RIGHT! I was supposed meet back with my school after doing seaside school activiites with MC! I forgot between the shark attacks and my own thoughts... MC, would you mind if I left for a bit?
MC: Sure / We already split up before / Pick, me or school
---
(AB) Gullinbursti: Thank you! Let's enjoy the party!
(C) Gullinbursti: Oh no how do I pick!?
Arslan: Gullinbursti, this is the part where you say "I must go to prepare to entertain you since you mean the most"!
Gullinbursti: T-that makes sense!
---
Gullinbursti: Come enjoy the Setagaya-Suidocho party, everyone!
Behemoth: how did you manage to forget that?
Gullinbursti: Because I am a stupid pig who ran around thinking about the shark incident problem!
Arslan: Haha, how about we just forget about the shark thing for a night? I came here for the seaside school stuff in the first place.
Dagon: Arslan makes sense. Let's enjoy ourselves tonight.
Behemoth: Yeah!
Reprobus: (frown)
Gullinbursti: ...Reprobus?
End of Episode part

Live A Hero The Star Ocean Cruise Train Episode 2 (Abridged)

Somewhere on the train
Lady: Excuse me?
Droid: Yes miss?
Lady: I lost my son during the train tour...
Droid: Okay, we'll go look. Let me contact my coworkers.
Lady: Oh, no headset? So are you from Tronesion?
Droid: Yes. Please give us a moment to look.
Lady: Okay, thank you.

Engine Room
Boy: Wooow, the engine is sooo cool! I wanna look closer!
Pretty shining engine in use.

Red: Okay, I'll contact you if I find him. (walks in)
Red: Hmm...?
The boy is reaching out for the engine!

Red: NO STOP (runs and pulls kid back)
Boy: O-oh, I'm sorr--
Red: Get back! (accidentally touches engine pushing kid away and short circuits)
Boy: ...mister? Uhh, is he dead? What do I--
Red suddenly sits back up!

Red: Rebooting. Maintenance check. Restart--error, error. Beep boop, s-s-secur-r-r-ity wall system b-b-b-breach
Boy: UUUUHHH (runs out) ZOMBIIIIIEEE

Later
MC: Whew, finally / Cool, we're done now!
---
(A) Yoshiori: Wow you locked up for a while. But I guess that's good enough for you.
(B) Yoshiori: Ugh, you made ME nervous with how relaxed you were.
---
Yoshiori: But yeah you did good. The workers said they wanna work with us if something happens.
MC: Said Mr. Invisible / You being there made me feel better / Thanks for your advice!
(A) Yoshiori: Heh, I can't help it if normal people can't see me.
(B) Yoshiori: W-what? I didn't do anything, geez.
(C) Yoshiori: Eh, I know how these things go.

MC and Yoshiori are taking a break in the restaurant area.
Yoshiori: Damn, this is fancy. Brand name decor for this entire train? How much would a ticket be?
MC: Whoa, I guess it is first class stuff. / You can tell by looking?
Yoshiori: My old home had stuff like this everywhere, so I just picked it up. Don't really care about it anymore, but I know how relationships matter to business. I had to go on things like this before.
MC: ...are you from some big name family? / omg you're a rich kid?
(A) Yoshiori: Well we were pretty rich I guess. Not that I care about that.
(B) Yoshiori: Ugh, don't make me think about my childhood. What? Surprised?

Yoshiori: Eh, forget about it. Let's get some good grub. How about you get something too? ...ooh, order me the gelato. (points at dessert menu)
MC: Wow, you like sweets? / You liking sweets is so perfect!
---
(A) Yoshiori: What? I can like what I like. It goes with the coffee I ordered.
(B) Yoshiori: WHAT? Stop smiling at me like that!
---
MC places an order with a server.

Yoshiori: Ordering through a server is so old school. I know it's part of customer service, but it also means I can't order...
Esperdica: Hello, coffee here.
MC: Thank you. It smells nice. / Hottie!
(C) Esperdica: Oh, why thank you. It feels wrong to not say anything too, so you look quite lovely.

Esperdica: I have a fruity roast blend today. Please enjoy. (puts coffee down for MC and Yoshiori)
Yoshiori: ...wait, you can see me?
Esperdica: Y-yes? I got an order for a coffee and cafe latte. I thought it was for two?
Yoshiori: No, you're right. So are you a hero or Observer then?
Esperdica: Oh, excuse me. Today I am a barista serving coffee so that the customers serve the Tea™, and my name is Esperdica. And yes, I am also a hero. Nice to meet you.
MC: Nice to meet you, I'm MC.
Yoshiori: I'm Yoshiori. So I guess there's a bunch of heroes on board?
Esperdica: Yes, in case of Monster attacks. I was hired mainly for coffee making though, and I just happened to be a hero. Look over there.

Droids, droids everywhere.
Esperdica: They're elite soldiers. By the way...are you two with Parallel Flight?
Yoshiori: Yeah. You know about us?
Esperdica: Yes, so many rumors. It's an honor meeting you two.
Yoshiori: Wait what rumors? I can guess but still... MC aside, you actually know about me?
Esperdica: Yes, that you're the Invisible Mercenary. You're famous in our circles...oh, that's why you asked if I could see you.
MC: What rumors? Who's talking about us?
Esperdica: That's a secret. Enjoy the coffee and look at the stars.
Coffee!

Yoshiori: Right, better to have coffee while it's hot...ow, I burned myself!
Esperdica: You like black coffee? Take your time with it. And the cafe latte for MC in a moment.
Esperdica makes cafe latte art of a dog(?) for MC!

Esperdica: ...here you are. It'll collapse if you shake it hard.
MC: Yay, doggy! / It's pretty
(A) Esperdica: Dog? ...it's supposed to be a wolf. Isn't it cute?
(B) Esperdica: Thank you, it's a wolf. Bon appetit.

Noise.
Droid: Miss, we found your son! He's okay. (leads boy by hand)
Lady: Oh yes, thank you! Where'd you go, son? Say thank you to the nice robot man.
Boy: ...waaah, zombie ghost!
Lady: what? It's okay, you're okay now. Daddy went looking for you in the casino area. Let's go see him.
Boy: But I DID see a zombie ghost! I did!
Lady: I'm sorry about him, thank you all for your help.
Esperdica: ...oh, they found him.
Yoshiori: U-uh, ghost? Well I guess scared kids default to thinking everything's that.
Esperdica: Especially when they feel helpless. The train is big, easy to get lost in. Still, a ghost...? (thinks)
MC: Afraid of ghosts?
Esperdica: ...oh! No, not me. A friend is, though. I heard he's on this train. I hope he's okay. What about you two?
Yoshiori: ...n-nope! Ghosts aren't real! They can't hurt us or anyth--
MC: (poke) / (puts hand on shoulder) / (stare)
(AB) Yoshiori: AAH! ...I'll get you for this!
(C) Yoshiori: W-what? I ain't afraid, I just don't like them.

Esperdica: Well people are different. Who knows if ghosts are real, but plenty of people are afraid of them.
Yoshiori: STOP MAKING ME SOUND LIKE I'M AFRAID OF THEM!
Smash!

Esperdica: Oh, let me help clean that up. Call me if you need anything. (turns to mess maker)
Esperdica: Are you okay?
Droid: C-c-c-cup broke-ke-ke-ke-kerrorrrrr--(grabs cup shard)
Esperdica: what?
The droid swings at Esperdica!

Title Card: The Steam Whistle Tearing Through the Galaxy

Esperdica: Barista Kick! (kicks cup fragment)
Esperdica: Now what is this all about!? Oof!
Esperdica gets punched into a table! People screaming!

Yoshiori: Wait what the hell is going on!?
Esperdica: I-I don't know! He doesn't seem to be listening. All nearby staff, evacuate the guests!
Droid transforms!
Esperdica: How could this happen to a hero!? Actually we should stop him first! HQ, emergency! Transform me!
Surprise!

Esperdica: Wait, I'm being jammed!

No Observers in his agency seem to be around.
Esperdica: We need time to find the jamming source, but I have to transform to fight the droid off... Oh, MC! Can you operate for me!?
MC: Me!? / Welp, it's an emergency
Esperdica: Yes, it's awkward to ask this of a customer, but I feel better because you're an Operator with Parallel Flight. We need to stop him before he causes any more damage!
Droid approaches menacingly!

MC: Okay then, contract me!
Esperdica nods and runs over to auto-airdrop the contract!

Esperdica: Okay, contract signed. Thank you for having me.
Yoshiori: Fine, I'm in this too. We just gotta hit him until he stops moving, right? Probably gotta hit him hard.
MC: Right, let's go!
Beep. Heroes Esperdica and Yoshiori online!

Yoshiori: Let's make this quick, I got food waiting for me!
Esperdica: Thank you, you two. Your orders, MC. My Parallel Weapon's scent will stop him.
BATTLE START (more happens later)

Esperdica: Well we can't be having the hired guards upsetting the guests. Barista Kick!
Esperdica kicks the droid in the stomach! It wasn't very effective...

Esperdica: ...well then. Physical attacks work, but not well enough. Try smells then! Fragrance "Aromi Incantevole"!
Esperdica charges up his coffee roaster Parallel Weapon to flood the droid with smoke!

Droid: U-u-u-unable to control at-t-t-tack funct--(suddenly slows down)
Yoshiori: He slowed down! Eat space lead!
Bang bang bang

Droid: Beep boop, e-e-e-errorrrr... (detransforms and flumps over)
MC: Good job guys! / h-he stopped moving...
(A) Esperdica: Thank you, but...

Yoshiori and Esperdica quit out of their suits and look at the droid.
Esperdica: ...hmm. Is he out cold or...?
Yoshiori: No wait I didn't kill him! I didn't shoot him up THAT much! Uh, I can use my soldier training to check on him!
Yoshiori picks up the droid.

Yoshiori: ...wait, what? Guys, he's an android.
MC: WHAT / So like Digram?
Yoshiori: Yeah, he just shut down. Seems okay otherwise.
Esperdica: I didn't know the security guards were droids. But that explains why the jamming stopped now, but why did he go rampant?
Yoshiori: Maybe we should move him somewhere to lie down. And maybe tie him up in case he flips out again.
Esperdica: Right. And we should tell the guests the emergency is solved for now. I'll go talk to the other staff, one moment.

Esperdica makes a phone call while Yoshiori stares at the droid and talks to himself.
Yoshiori: Some dumb kid yells about zombie ghosts and now a droid goes crazy? Fishy. But what's going on...?
MC: Something up? / Yeah, weird.
Yoshiori: It ain't part of our work, but maybe keep it in mind. Prez put me in charge of your safety. Maybe nothing else will happen, but don't go sticking your nose into trouble.
Yoshiori looks around. People are coming back.

Rando A: I thought cruise trains were supposed to be safe.
Rando B: I'm glad heroes solved the problem so fast.
Rando A: I guess. But didn't the crazy man guide us in earlier? It's like he was possessed just now!
Rando B: Oh that reminds me, a little boy was yelling about ghosts and zombies. You don't think...?
Tabit sneaks around behind some frosted glass, then dissolves headfirst!

Rando A: OMG LOOK
Rando B: I-I saw him too! A disappearing man! Oh no the train is cursed!
Randos: HELP
Yoshiori: W-what!?
Esperdica: Sorry for the holdup. Did something happen for there to be more screaming?
MC: Something about zombie ghosts and disappearing men

Yoshiori: Oh god it's not just kids saying it now?
Esperdica: ...this can't be a coincidence anymore.
Yoshiori: Oh god you're saying there really ARE zombie ghosts on board?
Esperdica: No, just someTHING that looks like them. Maybe ghosts are real.
Esperdica smiles and stares. Yoshiori is shook.

Yoshiori: I don't get you...ghosts don't exist, they can't hurt us...i-if they do, what are we supposed to do? Does casting Gun on them still work?
MC: You really are afraid of ghosts, huh? But we gotta look into this. Maybe a Monster did it.

Yoshiori: Goddammit MC, you can't go three days without walking into a problem! FIIINE, we'll look into this long enough to prove ghosts aren't a thing! And I am NOT afraid of ghosts! I'm just helping because otherwise I have nothing to do! Okay, go decide where we'll go MC.
MC: Thanks! / You suck at changing subjects / Let's talk to people
Esperdica: May I join you two? This problem might affect other guards, and I could be caught without an Operator to transform with. I can also guide you around the train. How about it?
MC: That'd help, thanks! But what about your barista work?
Esperdica: I'll ask someone else to cover the cafe lounge for me. It needs cleaning up before it can reopen for service anyway, so I may as well come help investigate.
MC nods.
Esperdica: Thank you! I have a suggestion: how about we go to the casino area?
Yoshiori: What? Why?
Esperdica: My friend is supposed to be there. Maybe he can tell us something. Also that boy who yelled about ghosts is going there too.
Yoshiori: Oh okay. Lead the way.
Esperdica: This way then.
Esperdica joins the party! And leads them off.

Tabit: Must hurry!
Nobody notices Tabit.

End of Episode

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

Marine Resort Crisis Episode 3 Part 2 (Abridged)

Reprobus is having a flashback to boating practice.
Ahab: You sure work hard, Reprobus. Gorm. What's-your-face. I heard you're trying to break into society?
Reprobus (narrating): Captain Ahab felt some sort of similarity to me or something. I mean, I guess I could be a teacher with all the job experience I got, but I'm still a student since I haven't picked out my one workplace.
Ahab: You wanna serve a Savior? So you're chasing rainbows? Wow that's just like me.
Reprobus (narrating): Toyosu's tried hiring Ahab permanently, but he still hires himself out as a ship captain and chases some whale thing on his off time.
Ahab: I saw this dark guy who really looked like the one I was after, but it was someone else. Then I saw this blue guy who also really looked like the one I was after. But they all had the same power to flip the sea over. They say you got three lookalikes in the world, so if I met two already, I'll find them soon. SOON.
Reprobus (narrating): He said he's looking for white whale servant of God, Moby Dick. I asked what he'd do when he found them. He seemed surprised.
Ahab: HA, wow it really does feel like talking to a mirror! But what would you do if you found the one you're looking for? What next?

Present. Sort of. Just after Gullinbursti runs out to deliver food.
Typhon: Restock done! Yeessss, my perfect plan is coming together! Come on, partner!
Typhon and Gouryou: WE'RE THE PICKUP GANG! (name pending)
Typhon: Wait why's it just you!?
Gouryou: It's cool, I got our new guy coming over with Seth so we can do our thing! Look, it's them!
It's Seth and Ulaanbaatar! And random nobodies!

Seth: T-the drinks are coming! Just stay with us!
Ulaanbaatar: Relax bro! Sorry, it's his first time.
Rando A: Wow, he seems like a natural!
Rando B: Aww that's cute
Rando C: Ooh, is that the drink stall?

Gouryou: Wow he's good!
Typhon: We gotta get in on that too! Hey baby, did y'all feel it too when we met? It must be fate.
Gouryou: What'll you be having? We could show you to some secret spots if you want, hee hee.
Ulaanbaatar: Wanna hang out and have fun all night~?
SMACK

Ulaan: Aww we struck out. Oh well, moving on!
Seth: Do you guys ever learn? Not that I'm any better since I'm trying to be braver.
Gouryou: Aww baby. The chase is the fun part!
Typhon: Ow. (sulks into the ground)
Seth: U-uh, I can handle the stall if you need a break--
Typhon: AWESOME THANKS DUDE! Let's go, Gouryou! Babes love surfers!
Gouryou: Hell yeah! Sorry broSeth, we'll make it up to you later!
Typhon and Gouryou run off fast.

Seth: DAMMIT
Ulaan: Eh, it's cool. We all finally got our breaks together. How about you put up a closed sign and we go babehunting?
Seth: But I don't even want to babehunt! Fine, I'll stay, you go.
Ulaan: Wow I kinda feel bad now. Thanks bro!
Seth: D-don't get carried away! Hmph!
Seth notices something.

Seth: wait what

Later
Gouryou, Typhon, and Ulaanbaatar: Team Pickup Boys, go!
Typhon: The gang's getting bigger and that feels great!
Gouryou: We'll get 'em this time! Hey babes, whatcha lookin' at?
Ulaan: Yeah, why y'all lookin' at the ocean and--!!
Typhon: Ayyyy, what's going on peeps? Don't leave me hangi--
Randos: SHARK
Typhon: Where!? Are we doing this again!? Well anyways, wanna--
Gouryou: No really we're suddenly in a B-movie or something! Look up!
Flying sharks!
Typhon: WHAT
Gouryou: What's the world got against us trying to pick up babes!?
Ulaan: Run!

Elsewhere
Seth: (runs up to beach house) G-guys! Stay inside!
MC: Seth? what
Seth: Big Brother MC, flying sharks!
Reaction shot!
MC: How!? / Haha, good one / Dammit Tvastar!
Behemoth: Bruh are we in Sharknado
Reprobus: Stay here, I'll look.
Behemoth: But bro, it's dangerous out there!
Reprobus: Gullinbursti is out too. And Dagon and Arslan. (brushes Behemoth's hand off) I'll go save them with a jet ski!
MC: Careful! / Take me with you! / Then let's--
---
(A) Reprobus: I got this
(B) Reprobus: ...you're too stupid to be my real Master. Real professionals know the organization of command, and my job is to keep people safe.
---
MC watches Reprobus go and thinks.

MC: Behemoth, let's go! / Hold the fort, Shirou! / Ziz, take care of everyone!
(A) Behemoth: Yeah!
(B) Shirou: Okay. Be careful out there. Evils, help me!
Evils: EEEEE
(C) Ziz: This is an inappropriate time for this, but I'm glad you're asking me for help MC. Behemoth, let's go!

Later
MC, Ziz, and Behemoth run out! A bunch of people are running over from the other way!

Gouryou: Aren't we leading the sharks to the resort like this!?
Typhon: Oh no, what do we do!?
MC: Gouryou? Typhon and Ulaanbaatar, chased by flying sharks!?
Ulaan: Ping! Hey babe, must be fate huh? Miss me MC, you kouhai you?
MC: Focus! / (slap) / Missed you, Senpai!
(AB) Ulaan: Aww, that's cute. Do it again!
(C) Ulaan: Oh wow, is it my turn to be hunted now?

Gouryou starts taking command.
Gouryou: Ulaanbaatar, lead the babes to somewhere safe. You can do that much, right?
Ulaan: Hmmmm, you talk like you know about me.
Gouryou: Looking at you is like looking in a mirror. I know how it is.
Ulaan: Yeah, I can do that. Man I hate doing real emergency service work, but fiiine. Hey babes, lemme lead you to safety by hand!
Gouryou: Typhon, go join MC. I bet they're gonna fight the sharks. I'mma grab Seth so we can make evac announcements.
Typhon: 'kay! Sea battles are my thing!
Gouryou: Being competent is rough, man.
Gouryou waves at MC on his way to get Seth.

MC: Counting on you! / showoff / (wave back)
Typhon: Wow MC, you're with Ziz and Behemoth? This gonna be good!
Behemoth: I know that feel!
Ziz: Ooh, how nostalgic. But we should focus on what's happening now first.
MC: Let's go! / Careful everybody! / damn there's even more sharks
BATTLE START (more happens after)

The three sacrificial beasts of Eden: Ziz, Behemoth, and Leviathan. Leviathan has drifted through several worlds, which got him several different names and faiths. In Great Spirit, he was Weewilmekq and Palolokong. In Eden, he was Leviathan and Moby Dick, manifestation of God's power and voyager of the seas. And this is what Ziz and Behemoth told MC one day.
Ziz: He compared himself to everyone in front of him and got jealous, so he ate everything. The three of us were made to be a trinity.
Behemoth: I lived in the sea with him before. I still couldn't hate him, even with all the jealous fits. You too, Ziz?
Ziz: Yes. Fate gave him a heavy burden.
Behemoth was to gather energy for Eden. Leviathan was to gather unwanted emotions and get dumped to Gehenna.

Ziz: I was meant to keep them from falling apart.
Behemoth: Leviathan had it hard, man.
Ziz: He'd be himself for a little bit after he got rid of all that jealousy. He was funny, sociable, and a little clingy. Good times.
Behemoth: Sometimes I wonder if we'd gotten on better if we were different people.
Ziz: Maybe. Or maybe we'd never have met.
Behemoth: No way! ...but I think I get it.
Systems say if roles change, the bonds and connections might change with them.

Ziz: We think about what-ifs, but those what-ifs don't always lead to good directions.
Behemoth: I guess, but it makes me wish for the good futures we didn't pick. What if we could all live together without being sacrifices?

Present
Behemoth: AAAAAA
Sharkbot jet stream attack!

MC: Why are they all focusing on Behemoth? Come at me, bro!
Behemoth: I don't need to be THIS liked by animals!
Typhon: Behemoth, this way!
Behemoth: Okay whatever??? AAAAAA
Typhon: Watch me, MC! Let's go, Typhoon Flip!
Typhon's Noble Phantasm makes the sharkbots slam into the sands! Also tsunamis.

Ziz: Cloud Nine Defense! (stops tsunamis from reaching shore)
Behemoth: Wow! Okay my turn! (starts sucking up seawater with his artifact)
Sharkbot: REEEEE
One still okay sharkbot charges at Behemoth!

MC: MC Block!

Behemoth: Thanks MC! Hmm, this is taking too long. Oh! (jumps into water)
Typhon: Suddenly whirlpool!
Elsewhere

Arslan: Oh no!
Dagon: The boat isn't working!
Reprobus and Gullinbursti: HEY YOU GUYS
...

Reprobus and Gullinibursti: What are YOU doing here!?
Arslan: Haha, classic movie protagonist scene!
Dagon: Thank you, you two. Reprobus, can you get the boat working?
Reprobus: Yes, with my power. But less people on board is preferable.
Gullinbursti: I'll carry you Arslan!
Gullinbursti: (starts glowing) Take care you two!
Dagon: We should go too then. I'll hold your jet ski.
Reprobus: Okay. Invocation spiel activate! Class: Servant! Concept: Forwarding!

Underwater
Behemoth: (okay cool, that's enough water for energy)
Behemoth jumps back out!

Behemoth: Thanks MC! Check out my new Noble Phantasm application! I give you energy with FEEDER BEEEAAAM!
Behemoth fires a laser at flying sharks that turn them fat and make them crash land!

MC: welp / that's NOT a laser beam? / awesome!
Behemoth: Jambavan told me my artifact can shoot out the energy I take in and that made the sharks fat!
Reprobus: Wow, Behemoth's gotten good. WAIT, does this power to feed people mean Behemoth is my Master???

Typhon: Wow, cool show Behemoth!
Behemoth: Quick, cage the sharkbots! ...hmm, can we eat them later?
MC: Thanks for everything, Baatar-senpai! Wanna work together here too?
Ulaanbaatar: I wanna, but I can't because Reasons. Can't let people know my name out there! It's really not about me not wanting to work! So hows about--
Tetsuya and Taishakuten: The dine-and-dasher! Get him!
Ulaan: Whoops. BYE MC!
Hey look, someone's coming over.

MC: Hi Hephaestus and Talos. Tvastar you got some 'splaining to do!
Tvastar: Hi guys, we made some stuff to help you!
Hephaestus: M-Mommy are you okay? It's okay, I came to help fix things. Can you get the security party together?
Narration Zone

Solomon: New menu items? Ooh, can we get some after this is all over Master? ...what do you mean, death flag? OH NO! Next time on Marine Resort Crisis Episode 4 "He! And He! Are Fighting it Out!?" See you then!
End of Episode

Marine Resort Crisis Episode 3 Part 1 (Abridged)

Flashback!(?)
Perun: What, you want to talk about Eden's doghead Reprobus? He's got memories from other worlds mixed into him like Volkh does! Stop looking at me like that, I'm not responsible for EVERYTHING. It's just how Kitezh is, everyone's mixed in with other stuff. And I know Reprobus's fate. (pulls out the Tale of Bygone Years)
Perun: Reprobus once destroyed a village on his master's orders. As a Servant, he had to obey because saying no and not doing it never occurs to him. So he wants to serve a savior, someone who can make like infinite bread? Sounds like that God person the Edenites keep blathering about. You know, that same God that burned the world down before.

Reprobus is standing in a bunch of light kneeling before a great master.
Reprobus: Are you really my master?
Master says something!

Reprobus: ...excuse me?
Master makes an order that makes Reprobus want to cover his ears!

Reprobus: B-b-but why--
Reprobus stops because he doesn't want to argue with Master. There's only one of them in the whole world...or so he thinks at least. Full obedience or bust!

Reprobus: Reprobus is a good boy and does what he is told, even if he doesn't get why.
Reprobus (narrating): ...even if terrible things happen to him.
Present

Reprobus: NO I'M NOT LIKE THAT
Reprobus: ...oh, a dream.
AndvaResort staff break room

Reprobus: ...why'd I dream that? Weirdly clear for something I don't remember.
What if it was the FUTURE???

Reprobus: It's probably nothing. (drinks water) Time to get back to work.

Later
Behemoth: FOOD TIME
AndvaResort security job, Day 3 break time. Behemoth is grazing on a whole table of dishes.

Jiraiya: Wow you can eat!
Nomad: Extra order of supersized yakisoba, up! Seeing you enjoy it makes this all worth it.
Behemoth: Oh wow it's you, the yakisoba guy! I love your stuff!
Nomad: I'm a detect--n-never mind, thanks. Oh god I almost understood what it felt like to be Gabriel for a second.
Reprobus: ...I wish I could be as worry free as Behemoth.
MC: Behemoth eating never fails impress / You guys gonna be okay? / lots of new dishes I see
(A) Jiraiya: You think so too? That's good for flexing our skills, huh Suidocho guy?
(B) Jiraiya: It's cool! Most of this is made by a Suidocho student so it's like school training!
(C) Jiraiya: You're right! Most of this is made by a Suidocho student so it's like school training!

MC: Where's that? Someone in the Summoners go there?
Behemoth: That's that one business school!
Suidocho is also in Shinjuku to the northeast. They teach bartenders, sommeliers, and casino employees (Nobuharu, Agyou, Gandharva, Thunderbird, Gyoubu). Also businesses that relate to water (Typhon).

Jiraiya: Suidocho students are also here for seaside school, even during a shark attack. They're doing business! They came after Andvari invited you guys over.
Nomad: Yeah, they're all working the shops around here for food and customer service. I kinda feel bad about making you test our dishes, but Behemoth liking it so much is making me wanna try harder.
Behemoth: I'm glad I can taste things now! Thanks!
Taishakuten: You're cool! But hold up on that.
Tetsuya: Wait until dessert first.
MC: Huh. You're both Suidocho students?

Taishakuten: Hey MC! ...what, it ain't weird of me to go to school. Neighborhood development, right Tetsuya?
Tetsuya: (awkwardly looks away) Ugh, I'd have stayed in the kitchen if I knew MC was here.
MC: tee hee oh you / you two are friends? / wow you aren't cussing for once
---
(A) Tetsuya: shut the fuck up, you always have people drooling over you. Anyways...
---
Tetsuya: Eh, we at Kabukicho just can't have Taishakuten turn against us.
Taishakuten: Meh, if I cared about guild battles I'd do it through Shibamata's shopping district meetings.
MC: ah yes, the hometown lovers

Tetsuya: Do you ever listen, dammit? I just want to stay and die in Kabukicho, but I'm okay with helping out Tsukuyomi by going out and learning some new dishes at least.
Taishakuten: True love for your home!
Tetsuya: BACK OFF WITH YOUR STATIC! Anyways, no touching the employees here. Some firefighter's actually been going around doing that.
Taishakuten: oh yeah him
MC: who? wait, is that Ulaan--
Taishakuten: okay cool, check out our sweet desserts!
Taishakuten and Tetsuya dump food onto the table.

Behemoth: Yay! Which one first?
MC: This one looks like a normal matcha shaved ice? / Melon shark, one of the event currencies!

(A) Taishakuten: Wait for the surprise!
Behemoth: Oh my god it's filled with Japanese sweets!
Taishakuten: Yesss! All straight from Shibamata!
Behemoth: Awesome!
[If you haven't seen B if you haven't already]
MC: So what did Tetsuya make?
(B) Tetsuya: Meh, figured people like you like limited time local specials so I figured I'd do this.
Behemoth: Pretty! It's got fruit punch inside! Awesome!
Tetsuya: Uh thanks, it's not THAT impressive.
[If you haven't seen A already]
MC: So what did Taishakuten make?

Behemoth: Reprobus, Gullinbursti, you gotta try these! Sweets help with thinking!
Reprobus and Gullinbursti: (snaps out of it) what?
Reprobus: I'm okay.
Gullinbursti: Sorry to worry you. I'll have the shaved ice with this black syrup!
Taishakuten: Wait that's the wrong bottle!
Gullinbursti puts soy sauce instead of brown sugar syrup on his shaved ice.

Reprobus: I know how to eat watermelon! (starts chomping the watermelon to bits)
Reprobus and Gullinbursti: Awesome!
Tetsuya: ...are they high or just brainfried?
Taishakuten: YOU RUINED MY--wait mixing soy sauce and vinegar with shaved ice is actually a thing so maybe...?
MC: welp

Ziz: ara ara big sis can help if you're in trouble!
Shirou: Hi MC, everyone. I see something just happened. Let's clean up all that watermelon juice.
Taishakuten: Thanks Shirou!
MC: Our advisor is awesome! / Thanks Shirou / I'll help too
(A) Tetsuya: Yeah that's helpful but why are you acting so proud
Taishakuten: I know that feel, MC!
(B) Shirou: Thanks MC, this is just like regular dorm cleanup. Like when Kengo gets into food fights or Ryouta cries over dropped food...
(C) Shirou: Thanks, but I'm okay. You're on break, right? No worries, it's just like dorm stuff.

Shirou: Don't worry, this is part of my job. Happy to serve...kidding.
Reprobus: wait what (starts looking at all the beach house workers)
Reprobus: You aren't a servant, but you still serve visitors?
Shirou: That's not just a master/servant thing, you know. Customer service workers try to do better by thinking about what people want. Sometimes they say it, sometimes they don't, so it's hard.
MC: You're thinking that sounds like being a servant, huh?
Reprobus seems surprised.

Reprobus: I never thought about that before...
MC: wait really? / (say nothing)
(AB) Gullinbursti: I know how he feels, MC.

Gullinbursti: I was made to protect and serve the Shining One and had no doubts about my role. I wanted to be used, so not thinking what they wanted was faster. Is that what you think, Reprobus?
Reprobus: (nods) Yeah. Like why should scissors cut something their user doesn't want to cut? But if servants are how MC and Shirou said, I should rethink that.
Only the best servants get picked!

Reprobus: But how do I think of my master's desires without being ordered to...? (thinks)
Typhon: Hey y'all I sold all my juice! Break time, don't mind me~!
MC: Hey Typhon! / SHARK / We do mind, go away~!
---
(B) Typhon: OH GOD WHERE oh you mean me yeah I do look like one
(C) Typhon: 'kay~! Hey what the hell man!
[After B or C] Typhon: Haha oh you
---
Typhon: Long time no see, MC! I've been sad it's been so long.
MC: Figured you're busy with the band / I saw you on video / aww poor baby
(A) Typhon: Yeah Benten would flip her gourd if I said so. But we're popular now! Lots of stuff to do now!
(B) Typhon: Wow thanks! School and band keeps me busy, but I'm glad you're watching!
(C) Typhon: Yay, body contact~! Wish this could go on forever, but I'll share with everyone.

Typhon: So anyways I'm selling drinks as part of Suidocho's seaside activity. I sold out so I came to get more and--(notices staring)
Behemoth: Bruh???
Ziz: That's impossible. But maybe...?
Typhon: Can I help y'all?
Ziz and Behemoth: oh
Typhon: :D (bishie sparkle)
Ziz and Behemoth: wrong one
Typhon: WHAT

Ziz: Oh sorry, you just really look like someone we know.
Behemoth: Yeah dude! We thought he was here now!
Ziz: Such a strong resemblence.
Typhon: Wow, coinkydink. I feel like I know y'all already! I'm Typhon with Suidocho Business School and I run a stall!
Behemoth: I'm Behemoth from Shinjuku Academy and this is Ziz! Nice meeting ya!
Jiraiya: Sorry to cut in, Typhon can you deliver?
Typhon: Sure! Where to? Is it for a hottie?
Jiraiya: Um, literally on the water. Just use Surf!
Typhon: That's not how surfing works! I mean I could swim, but then the stuff'd get wet.
MC: Gullinbursti, go!
Gullinbursti: (stares)
Gullinbursti: THAT'S IT!
Typhon: Damn you're loud
Gullinbursti: My dwarven construction gives me Free Movement to run anywhere, even on water and air!
MC: Well he sure perked up. This is gonna be a disaster.
Gullinbursti: Yes, character differentiation from Agyou and Tanngrisnir! Where do I go?
Typhon: This cannot end well.
Jiraiya: I like him. Let's give him a chance!

At sea
Dagon: Sunbathing is nice. I'm not even getting sunburn.
Arslan: Haha, holy oil magic! Anyways, you think our lunch delivery will make it alright? They said it was fine, but still.
THUNDERING NOISE

Arslan: WHAT
Gullinbursti: Delivery! Sorry to splash you from stopping so suddenly but the food is okay! ...Arslan, Dagon? What an honor to deliver to the ones watching over my friend/master on my first job!
Arslan: I didn't know you could run on water.
Dagon: You seem happier today. Did this job help?
Gullinbursti: You noticed!?
Dagon: ...yes.

Flashback!
Gullinbursti: Oh no, how do I differentiate my character?
Dagon: MC, we are thirty feet away and we can still hear him. Does he always talk to himself that loudly?
MC: I wish I could help... / Let's just ignore him... / I like his voice
---
(A) Dagon: It's his problem to solve, but you can still offer advice. And you can ask me for advice too if you like.
(B) Dagon: I suppose he has to figure it out himself. He probably won't ask for help, but I'll keep watch.
(C) Dagon: More than mine? Get permission to stay out and come by next time.
---
Present

Dagon: Anyways, I'm glad you feel better. Feel free to talk to my students too.
Gullinbursti: Okay, I wanna talk to Reprobus. Thank you for calling, bye!
Gullinbursti runs off, splashing Arslan and Dagon's lunch delivery.

Arslan: ...welp. I guess this is my fault for asking it to be delivered here.
Arslan and Dagon go back to sunbathing.

End of Episode part

Live A Hero The Star Ocean Cruise Train Episode 1 (Abridged)

One night in Orient City
Tabit: (stands in front of ad board) Stella Campanella?
Giant spaceship cruise ad! A maintenance worker walks up.

Worker: Hi. Awesome cruise ship, huh? It's part of the Galactic Railroad. Heard of it?
Tabit shakes his head.
Worker: Oh! The Earth Sphere Area calls commercial cruise lines the Galatic Railroad and the Stella Campanella is a FANCY cruiser! They do mystery tours where they won't tell you where they're going! Rumors say they might be going to Muirauqa IV or Tronesion!
Tabit: !!
Worker: The ocean planet or the supertech planet of the machines! I wish I had the money to go on the cruise... (walks off to work)
Tabit: Tronesion return, possible? (connects to network)
Tabit: (Report: Possible return route to Tronesion discovered. Analyzing...insufficient funds for ticket purchase. Proposal: take short term employment to earn funding. Downloading customer service software and contacting job interviewer.)

Procy's Bar
Procy: Order up, your Eggs Benedict and coffee.
Gomeisa: Daily special fruit tea!
MC: Yes! / Thanks for setting up, Gomeisa / Hey Procy, haven't seen you since Valentines
(B) Gomeisa: Thank you too! Happy you here! Love fruit tea!
(C) Procy: Yeah huh.
Gomeisa: Wish I could gone! Sounds fun!
Procy: Like I said a million times, it was work!

Procy: Gomeisa, can you go take orders for a bit?
Gomeisa: Okay! (wanders off to clean)
Procy: Anyways, it's weird seeing you, Yoshiori, and Exio all together. Here to shoot up my bar again?
Yoshiori: I-I said I'm sorry about that! I paid you back, didn't I?
Procy: That was the least you could do, dope. Okay, enough needling you about that now that you're a paying customer.
Exio: Thanks. We came over because it was close to our job today.
MC: Yoshiori said he was hungry / Normies won't be able to see him / I wanted a break too
(AC) Procy: Cool. We got good snacks and drinks, but I guess you're still on the clock.
Yoshiori: Yeah, still gotta report back. Ooh these eggs are nice.
(B) Procy: Life must suck as the Invisible Mercenary. How do you even eat?
Yoshiori: I either make it myself or get someone to buy for me. Or get delivery. Ooh, nice eggs.

MC: Surprising choice, Yoshiori / I love them too! / Ooh, what is it?
---
(A) Yoshiori: What's it to you? You want some?
(B) Yoshiori: It's my go-to thing. You want a bite?
(C) Yoshiori: Pretty straightforward. Wanna try?
---
Yoshiori: I'm from America. This reminds me of home.
Exio: I know how it is. Funny how food culture changes across oceans even in the space age.
Procy: Yeah, I get that feeling in the food service industry. There's similar but still different stuff between here and my home planet Maserimaose. I can sub stuff, but it's still something to worry about.
Yoshiori: Yeah...

Suddenly!
MC: A glass broke? What?
Procy: What happened!? Everyone okay!?
Gomeisa: No fighting!
Red: Bitch cheated me!
Raizi: (sigh) Like I'd do something so boring. You're the one who threw the dice.
Red: The dice must be rigged!
Exio: Huh. What's up?
Procy: UGH stop fighting you idiots! (steps in between)

Procy: okay what the hell happened
Raizi: I invited Red to a dice game and bet a drink on it
Red: He cheated!
Procy: ...and how'd the game go?
Raizi: 12 to 0. Three draws.
Yoshiori: The hell are those odds?
Red: No way can anyone lucksack that shit!
Raizi: Really I just wanted to play, you don't have to pay up. We can play until you win at least once if you wanna.
Red: How about we play MY FIST IN YOUR FACE
Procy: DAMMIT STOP

Procy: Okay that's enough beer for you, I'll tab your bill. Go home!
Procy starts pushing Red out.

Red: But I-- (ejected)
Procy: Ugh, where do these people come from
Gomeisa: Boss I sorry. I clean up broken glass.
Procy: You do that, I gotta damage that thing out. After that, go take orders.
Gomeisa: Okay!
Procy: Raizi, stop bullying newbies.
Raizi: (shrugs) And how does going easy make games any fun? He still could've won by sheer luck, but I guess that's no fun to people who think it's all about luck. So I picked dice for that chance of losing.
Procy: Said the guy who technically never lost 15 games. I'm not bailing you out every single time!
Raizi: O-okay okay, I got it.

Exio: Hi Raizi, good to see you doing well.
Raizi: ...Exio, right? What do you want now?
Yoshiori: whomst
Exio: Oh nothing, just worried from seeing you almost get into a fight. (smiles) How've you been?
Raizi: ...business as usual. How's Melide, or what's her name?
Exio: She's good. We got a new workplace recently.
Raizi: Cool, whatever. Gotta go, leaving the money here Procy.
Procy: Well that was fast. Got plans?
Raizi: Nothing so grand. Got a cruise train ticket, so I oughta pack up. I don't even care where it's going, but it's got a good casino on board and that's exciting me for once. (tail jitters)
Procy: Oh. Don't go too crazy in there.
Raizi: I know, thanks. Bye. (leaves)
MC: A gambler huh? Rare.
Procy: Yeah I've known him since forever. He's a good guy and he makes a living at it, so I let him be.
Exio: ...I didn't know you knew him. Anyways we should go back soon. Paper work to do.
Yoshiori: R-right. I'll be done soon.

The next day at Parallel Flight
Huckle: Okay, I'd like you and Yoshiori to handle this case.
MC: Okay!
Yoshiori: Inspecting the Stella Campanella? MC is one thing, but is it okay for me to go too? Civvies can't see me.
Huckle: I understand how you feel, but schedule-wise you fit best.
Yoshiori: Yeah, Exio told me to be flexible for it. And I know Exio and Melide are on another job. I'm Exio's bodyguard, but I was a merc before that.
MC: This is gonna be cool! / omg you AREN'T whining about Exio being away? / Field trip with Yoshiori!
(AC) Yoshiori: What are you so excited for? ...eh, maybe the cruise train will have some good food at least.
(B) Yoshiori: HEY! ...okay yeah it bugs me, but I'm still a big boy. I can handle it.

Huckle: (laughs) Thanks for doing this. I was given those tickets by an old friend who's now the president of Archimedes' spaceship company.
Yoshiori: Holy shit, that's a big shot.
Huckle: They're VIP seats to the cruise train's mystery tour. Seemed rude to waste it.
Yoshiori: Oh okay.
Huckle: Yes, it's a polite relationship thing, so we should do what we can for them. Good luck MC!
MC: okay wow pressure / Got it!
Huckle: You'll be okay. Call back if anything happens. And Yoshiori will be with you.
Yoshiori: Yeah, I'll be your bodyguard this time.
Huckle: Thanks for that. (nods)
Huckle: Okay I should introduce you guys. You may be checking the train out, but since you can't leave the mystery tour midway, you can enjoy yourselves on board. Enjoy what they have.
Yoshiori: Got it.
MC: Ooh I wonder what they have?
Huckle: ...oh, but stay professional. You'll still be on the job, okay?

Title Card: Sally Forth to the Stars

Cruise ship disembarking day
MC: oof I'm nervous / this is exciting!
---
(A) Yoshiori: Relax, we're customers basically. Unless you sweat the small stuff?
(B) Yoshiori: Okay wow, it's just a business trip. But it'll be easier if it's with you.
---
Yoshiori: Well now that we're here, we better check in with the office since we'll be stuck on board.
MC: Oh right, I'll do that.

Beep beep
Sui: Hello, Parallel Flight. Oh, MC and Yoshiori? Are you at the spaceport?
MC: Yep. Checking back in before we board.
Sui: Oh okay. It's just me and Melide now since everyone else went to their assignments. They'll be back soon.
Melide: Sui, I made tea so--oh, MC and Yoshiori.
Yoshiori: Yep, everything's cool here. You two on standby?
Melide: Yes. Mokdai gave us cookies so I made tea. Want some, Sui?
Sui: Okay.
Yoshiori: D'aww.
MC: I wish I was there / Better have fun here too / Good luck, guys!
Melide: You're going on a mystery tour, right? You should relax a little.
Sui: Don't worry about us. Bring presents!
PA System: Please have your tickets out for check-in.
MC: Oh, gotta go!
Sui: Take care.
Melide: Have a safe trip.
Yoshiori: Thanks, tell the others we said hi.
click

Yoshiori: I'm glad Sui and Melide are doing okay.
MC: Aww, you worrywort / I see them talk together a lot
---
(A) Yoshiori: S-shut up!
(B) Yoshiori: Huh. Well Sui does seem closest to Melide in age.
---
Somebody's coming.

Digram: Thank you for waiting, everyone coming for the mystery tour. Please have your tickets out and direct any questions to me.
MC: Digram! / who dat
(A) Digram: Hello MC, we haven't met since the interoffice party. Today I will be a guide and conductor for the cruise.
Yoshiori: You're a hero? And a machine lifeform?
Digram: Yes. Are you part of MC's office? Pleased to meet you. Your tickets, please.
(B) Digram: Hello I am Digram, your guide and conductor for this train. Tickets please, you two.
Yoshiori: Wait you can see me? You a hero or Observer?
Digram: Yes, I am a hero. If you have no other questions, tickets please.

Digram: Yes, everything is in order. Please board now, other crew members are patrolling. Contact us if anything is needed. I will take your luggage, please enjoy yourselves.
MC: Thanks Digram!
Yoshiori: Wow, the conductor's a machine hero? Convenient. Let's check the train out.
MC nods and boards. Mystery tour, go!

End of Episode

Saturday, November 11, 2023

Marine Resort Crisis Episode 2 Part 2 (Abridged)

Masanori: Yoshito, what are you looking at?
Yoshito: An old friend I couldn't bring myself to talk to.
Masanori: Such depressing thoughts in such sunny weather. We're supposed to look like we're having fun.
Yoshito: (code switch!) You are correct, Masanori! Let's go have fun!
Masanori: OH GOD it still freaks me out when you do that! ...anyways let's investigate that new thing here in AndvaResort.
Yoshito: Yes that facility that might threaten us in the future, that thing.
Masanori: What was it made for? Maybe we should destroy it. Kotarou works there, maybe we can hire him to--
Rando: (SCREAMS BLOODY MURDER)
Masanori: WHAT

Canaan 2.0
Rando: SHARK
The party runs over to the voice!

MC: Damn, Reprobus didn't think twice about ditching us. (follows after)
Reprobus: SECURITY! Tell us what happened!
This is Canaan 2.0's rest area.

MC: Where's the shark!?
A rando points a sharkbot outside the walls.

Behemoth: Oh good we're safe, right?
Arslan: Hey you guys, come to check out the screaming too? We should be totally fine! That shark's far away and we're behind perfectly safe glass walls. It's probably nothing.
Gullinbursti: Right, maybe we should lead people outside just in case. Reprobus?
Reprobus: ...I'm staying on alert, just in case.
Dagon: How commendable. (starts handing out emergency evac maps and sends a data copy to Reprobus's phone)

Arslan: I guess that boss shark really is out there making new sharkbot types, huh?
Behemoth: Could it like not and just come at us so we can end this early?
Gullinbursti: ...Master, is that shark coming this way?
MC looks over.

MC: It is! ...doesn't it look different?
Pompadour sharkbot!

Party: wat
MC: Dammit Tvastar
Arslan: ...so this is unnatural, right Professor Sealab?
Dagon: ...I-I can't deny that. If it's natural, I'll have to write a discovery report on it. I'm doubting that, though.
Dagon's been informed of the first shark attack the other day.

Dagon: This is probably another sharkbot.
Behemoth: Looks different tho. Did it change shape?
Gullinbursti: What have the Crafters done!? ...maybe I should ask them to mod me too.
Behemoth starts looking around.
Behemoth: ...hey, are the ninja guys okay?
Kotarou: (poit) Yep!
Behemoth: AAAAAA
Kotarou: Wow sharks are big these days. And I can't believe my men kept going until I said get out!
MC: So pro? / Such leadership they have / Is Tadatomo okay!?
(B) Kotarou: I guess. We all gotta work together to make enough to eat, but now they're all uppity about employee welfare and safety. Watch out for yourselves!
Tadatomo: Kotarou, everyone has retreated.
Kotarou: Thanks!
(C) Tadatomo: Yes Milord! All employees outside have retreated!
Kotarou: Ooh, trying hard in front of MC?
Tadatomo: N-no!? I mean, I'm just not cutting corners at work and...
Kotarou: Yeah sure whatever. Thanks for that!
Tadatomo: how dare you take that tone with me

Kotarou: So we should probably send everyone up while it's still safe, yeah? And before people panic?
Dagon: Do land dwellers fear sharks that much? Well alright then. Reprobus, split the team up and guide the guests out.
Reprobus: Okay. We'll work from the bottom up and--
THUNK
The sharkbot is headbanging on the wall!

Arslan: WHAT
MC: Oh no!
Dagon: It will be okay! Now calmly exit the premises.
Behemoth: Y-yeah! I got a bad feeling about this! It's just like a movie I saw!
Dagon: That's just for plot dramatization. In real life that--
BONK
The wall is starting to crack!

Dagon: What!?
Reprobus: Go! I'll protect Dagon!
Gullinbursti: I'll check for stragglers!
Behemoth: Arslan, let's go help Ryouta and Moritaka lead visitors out!
Arslan: Okay. Time to go, people!
Dagon: >:(
He seems oddly fascinated with watching the place start to flood.

MC: Dagon, let's go! (grab his hand)
And so everyone leads the visitors out with Gullinbursti carrying out anyone who can't walk.

Later, on the surface
Moritaka: All the random nobodies are safe! Now we're waiting on MC, Reprobus, and Dagon!
Ryouta: I hope they're okay!
Behemoth: I'll go swim down to look for them!
Arslan: No, the place is flooded and the sharkbot might have got in. And what if you pass by them? It's time for me to play my King Solomon's Sword card and--WHAT
Sudden water pillar blowing up!

Dagon: HA HA HA HA HA
Party: WHAT
Giant Dagon on a cruiser!

Dagon: Such interesting evolution! You destroyed a part of my R'lyeh II, so come at me now. Okay stop the boat, Reprobus!
Reprobus slows the boat down and runs out on deck with MC.

MC: Okay wow you pulled up close to the ground! / Heeey you guuuys!
Arslan: It's everyone!
Behemoth: Where'd that boat come from!?

Flashback!
Dagon: MC, Reprobus, help me with my work? I have an...experiment to run.
Reprobus: !?!?!?
MC: We should run! / Okay / Experiment on me too!
---
(A) Reprobus: MC is right.
(B) Dagon: Ha, how reliable of you!
Reprobus: Guys we should run!
(C) Dagon: Ooh, I can make some time for that later.
---
Dagon: But yes that shark is probably breaking in. Fighting a shark underwater would be a terrible idea normally, but I am Dagon, baby.
Dagon clears the way with his tentacles!

Dagon: Follow me. Reprobus, you got your Riding skills certified by Ahab, yes?
Reprobus: Y-yes, I've sailed a boat before and have my license. But aren't we underwater?
Dagon: Heh. How little faith you have in me.

Present
Reprobus: Who keeps a hangar underwater!?
Dagon: I didn't see this coming, but such is how technology progresses. Now face me, sea creature!
Dagon shrinks to a more manageable size and jumps back on deck!

Dagon: Reprobus, start the ship again on my signal, will you? MC, ready to shoot some sharks? Yes, I said plural.
MC: They did it again!? / I'm sorry for my little boy / Bonus pay time!
---
(A) Dagon: You can jump into my chest if you're scared.
(B) Dagon: What? Oh right, one of the Crafters calls you Mommy. Can I be your little boy too? ...kidding. Unless...? Well not now anyways.
(C) Dagon: Are you all that desperate for money? I can give you an allowance if you like.
---
Dagon: Here come the invaders! (spreads tentacles over the ship) Behold the true ruler of the sea!
BATTLE START (more happens after)

Dagon (narrating): There's someone I want to meet more than anyone else sealed beneath the sunken city of R'lyeh, so I started studying other worlds when I came to Tokyo. I used the memories of my other self from a lost world to recreate an underwater city with the combined knowledge of otherworlders. But try as I might, the recreation was hollow. But it was still a step forward! But the road to achieving my dream is endless, and the journey continues.
Present
Dagon catches sharkbots with his tentacles and MC beats them with their sword!

MC: Last one!
Surprise! One more! Except Dagon catches that one just as it hits MC.

MC: Nice catch! / Whoa thanks / Wait shouldn't that have hurt?
(A) Dagon: And you did well. Reprobus saved you too.
(B) Dagon: I'm glad you're okay. Remember to thank Reprobus later.
(C) Dagon: Must be Reprobus's power.

Reprobus walks onto the deck having turned on autopilot.
Reprobus: You guys are okay. I mean I knew since I have the power to bring people aboard to safety.
MC: That your artifact? Your power? / It's the Reprobus Shield!
---
(C) Reprobus: It's not a literal shield but okay whatever.
---
Reprobus: So like I just said, my artifact's power is the safe delivery of whatever I carry. Or whoever I see as carrying. Dagon already knows, so he made me driver.
Dagon: ...I suppose that's enough for the quick and dirty version.
Reprobus: But I don't understand why you're happy things are destroyed. Like when the shark broke your wall.
Dagon: Well okay, as a pro teacher I'll tell you.
Reprobus: ???
Dagon: Progress comes from failures, not successes. This is a learning opportunity! I want to go past the knowns where not even a savior can reach. And I might need your power for that one day. Now let's go cage these sharks up.
Reprobus seems shaky as he goes back inside for some reason.

Later
Dagon calls ahead to get the cages ready, then the sharks get thrown in. MC goes over to the flooded entrance to Dagon's sunken city after.

Dagon: Oh, did you still business over here MC?
MC: I came to see you. I was worried about you. / Sucks about the flooding and stuff.
---
(AB) MC noticed Dagon walking off alone earlier while everyone relaxed.
(C) Dagon: Oh, did you like it that much?
---
Dagon: Everything breaks. We just need to remake it, and I'll remake this. Come again then.
MC: Looking forward to it / Maybe when this is all done / A date?
---
(C) Dagon: Sure, we can sink together.
---
Dagon: I guess I'll have to make some calls later. (puts hand around MC's waist) But for now, I'm keeping you to myself. Once this is over, we could...actually hold that thought. Can't go tripping death flags now, haha.
Dagon and MC walk down the beach. Gullinbursti watches.

Gullinbursti: I can't believe Reprobus had such skills and a power like that! I'm falling victim to character overlap! Now how do I fix that...? Hmm...

That night in Kamata
Hephaestus: This is that hammerhead piece Tvastar took off! Did the shark remake it from its records? Oh no, it's evolving! I have to finish the gear for Mommy quick!
Narration Zone

Solomon: God I wish I was Dagon along and together with you, Master! Oh, but the sharks are getting freakier! Next time on Marine Resort Crisis Episode 3 "Training! Flirting! And Refilling!" See you then!
End of Episode

Marine Resort Crisis Episode 2 Part 1 (Abridged)

Reprobus (narrating): I have Monstrous Strength, which meant I can carry anything and smash anything into little pieces. I used it to serve my father, who taught me about this great king, and that guy freaked me out so then I served a demon. And then I ended up a freelancer shuffling from job to job. THEN my demon master told me to smash everyone and everything I loved, but I found out about some church nobody could ever destroy. It was built for some dude who died for all the world's sins that nobody else could bear. He sounds awesome, so I quit working for a demon to look for this savior. My Monstrous Strength totally had to be meant for carrying him!

Present
It's the next day since last time, and Dagon's new lab thing is in the middle of preopening. Ryouta and Moritaka are outside getting ready to greet people.

Moritaka: Welcome. Too hot.
Ryouta: Maybe you should sit down inside?
Moritak: No! I am not hot or anything! ...but the forecast said today's the hottest day of the year.
Ryouta: Yeah, it really sucks. Shade doesn't help much. Lemme wipe off your sweat!
Moritaka: Oh thank you Ryo--
Totally Not Yoshito (further away): Moritaka Moritaka Moritaka weeeh our lost friendshiiiip
Moritaka: What's that sound? Ryouta, is something wrong?
Ryouta: I sense murder vibes?
The party comes by.

MC: Don't push yourself Moritaka, this heat is killer on furries. / Look, we brought water!
(AB) Reprobus: I brought water.
Ryouta: Thanks Reprobus! We drank what we had already!
(C) Ryouta: Thanks MC! We drank what we had already!

Moritaka: I'm alive again! Thank you, MC, Reprobus, and everyone else! It must be awful walking out in this heat.
Ryouta: Are you guys here because it's time to open up?
Behemoth: Yeah I'm surprised Dagon invited us for that.
Gullinbursti: I'm glad to be with my Master, wherever it is we're going!
Arslan: Well it's nice to go somewhere shady!
Reprobus: I need to learn the layout for work.
MC: Oh so that's why we're all here / Thanks for explaining Reprobus
(C) Reprobus: I'm smart, so you can rely on me more. Hehehe...wait stop staring at me.

Moritaka: Gullinbursti, Reprobus, how can you two not be sweating out here?
Reprobus: I'm used to it.
Gullinbursti: Well I can handle any summer heat!
MC: why so competitive / dying / wow Gullinbursti!
---
(C) Gullinbursti: O-oh, thank you Master.
---
Behemoth: Oh. Wait, why are your backs shining?
Ryouta: Oh my god your sweat evaporated into salt!? Don't just put up with it!
MC: Yeah! Hydrate yourselves! / Muscle salt? I can sell that for big bucks!
(AB) Reprobus and Gullinbursti: NO WE'RE NOT
Behemoth: riiiight
(C) Reprobus and Gullinbursti: !?
Reprobus and Gullinbursti: YOU CAN!?
Ryouta: Sorry, MC can be weird like that sometimes, please understand

Reprobus: Oops
Reprobus pops a goddamn CANTEEN into little pieces!

MC: HOLY CRAP / you okay? / whoa
---
(AC) Reprobus: yeah that happens a lot
(B) Reprobus: I'm okay, thanks. It happens a lot.
---
MC: That sucks
Reprobus: Yeah, but I'm after a forever job so it's not all bad.
MC: what
Ryouta: Hey it's almost time for Dagon's other guests to get here.
Moritaka: Let's keep it up!
The party waits with Ryouta and Moritaka.

Ryouta: ...I think that's them! Hey! (waves)
Moritaka: Welcome! We thank you for coming and--!?
Crowd of dying furries and a happy fairy!

MC: Oh my god get in! / hell / What kind of freak smiles at a time like this
Moritaka: Oh no! Please get inside with the shade!
Reprobus: Wait, I'll carry them in.
Gullinbursti: Me too!
Ryouta: I'll grab water!
Tomte: I wanna help too!
Ryouta: Do you think this is a sauna or something? Is that how you're okay!?
Arslan: ...well then. We should help too, Behemoth.
Behemoth: Yeah! Heat strokes are bad!

Later
The furries are better! Dagon is apologetic.

Dagon: I'm sorry to have kept you waiting in this terrible heat.
Jambavan: It's okay! Leib dumped the invite sent me out in his place to thank you for inviting us!
Goemon: I worked here and I can't believe I went down like that.
Tomte: It's okay! I don't care how stupid you look because it makes taking care of you all the more worth it!
Goemon: WEIRDO
Jambavan: You're rather...unique, even without needing to deal with fur in this heat, Tomte.
Tomte: Sweat is forever!
MC: Damn, Jambavan / Hey Goemon! / It's weird seeing you in summer, Tomte
(A) Jambavan: Oh my goodness MC, listen! We get a real invite from a Toyosu professor and Leib said he didn't want to leave his ACed lab so he made me go instead! Dagon even wrote that the facility would be perfect for furries in the summer!
(B) Goemon: Hey MC, I'm good! Oh wait I need to be more kabuki dramatic. Whatever, I'm here as Nakano Academy's representative! More inspiration!
(C) Tomte: Hi MC, been a while! Need someone to look after you? Ded sent me to represent Santa School.

Behemoth: Jambavan! I haven't seen you since that time I went to Ueno.
Jambavan: Hi Behemoth, how's your artifact?
Behemoth: Awesome! I can taste now!
Ryouta: Oh, you were talking about Jambavan back in class the other day?
Behemoth: Yep! Ueno has these peeps researching, uh, In Clothes Air Eels.
MC: What? Enclosed Areas? Was that Jambavan's specialty?
Jambavan: Yes, Transient Biology in Enclosed Areas. Basically, research on how Transient powers work in the app's enclosed areas.
Behemoth: Yeah he taught me how to control my artifact. Thanks Jambavan! I'd also thank Leib if he were here.
Jambavan: Want to visit our dorms then? We could eat together too!
Behemoth: Hooray!
Reprobus stares as MC greets everyone.

Dagon: Okay everyone, it's time to check out R'hyleh II by the diving area. Ryouta, Moritaka, take care of everyone.
Dagon walks ahead. Ryouta and Moritaka start leading everyone down a sea tunnel with reinforced glass windows.

Gullinbursti: Amazing. I've never been down this deep even in my home world.
Reprobus: Same. Dagon made something like all this?
Dagon: Heh, you haven't seen anything yet.
Mass Effect elevator time! Ninjas are doing a swim show outside!

MC: WHAT / oh right that's a thing / (omgyay!)
Arslan: Wow. So that's how you advertise the diving activities here?
Dagon: Yes, uh...Elias. It was Andvari's idea.
Arslan: Nobody from Aoyama is here, so we can stop pretending. Thanks though. But wow Andvari's business game is on point!
Tadatomo notices MC in the elevator in surprise. Kotaro swims up to the glass to wave at MC.

Gullinbursti: You know them, MC!?
Ryouta: MC knows like everyone.
Reprobus: (stares)
MC: I'm glad to have so many friends / not really / don't you have more friends?

Reprobus: MC, how do you manage to have so many servants and be so unqualified for kingship at the same time?
MC: What? They're friends, not servants.
Reprobus: But they all like and want to talk to y--WAIT is this what friends are???
Behemoth: what
Reprobus: I mean I know what friends are but they always break! I'm from Kitezh where even the emperor breaks! So I want a Master even I can't break, which means they can't be friends.
Dagon: Huh. I didn't know you were like that. You worked together well enough with your classmates.
Reprobus: Because that's what people want from me and I didn't feel like saying no.
Gullinbursti: (Tanngrisnir flashback!)
Gullinbursti: I reject your thinking! Good servants have good frenemies!|
Reprobus: Pffft. Work over friends because I have to carry lives on my back...do you think I'm sad, MC?
MC: Yes / No / So pro
(C) Surprised and happy Reprobus!

Gullinbursti: To Hel with your ideas! There are things even you can't break! Come at me bro!
MC: Stop / Ryouta, you're up / No Gullinbursti!
---
(B) Ryouta: I have opinions but I'll let Behemoth do it. He's good at making friends!
Behemoth: WHAT? I mean...I guess that's true? Especially with animals?
(C) Gullinbursti: But Mast--actually I'll stop I can't put it into words yet.
---
Behemoth: So uh, maybe things are different here in Tokyo, you know? Give it a try, bro!
Big smiles with Ryouta!

Reprobus: ...so you're saying experience is more important than formal learning?
Behemoth: what???
Dagon: How academic of you. But yes, that's what he means.
Reprobus: I'll do it then. I'm a pro, I can multitask if I'm ordered to. I'll stick pick work over friends though. You okay with that, you guys?
MC: Yep / You don't have to be THAT sure
Reprobus: ...I've said what I wanted to say.
Arslan: You have weird ideas.
Dagon: Let's just keep watching.

Later
The elevator arrives to what looks like a whole new world!

Dagon: Okay, I'll take over guiding from here. Ryouta, Moritaka, go check the visitors please.
Ryouta: Okay bye guys!
Moritaka: Enjoy!
Gullinbursti: This looks just like Aegir's palace!
Behemoth: Whoa!
Reprobus: ...wow.
Arslan: What is all this!?
Dagon: Haha, thank you all. Let's head further in.
MC: Pretty! / Where'd the idea come from? / Deja vu...
(A) Dagon: I'm glad you like it because I made R'lyeh II for you.
(B) Dagon: Oh, I just KNEW it already.
(C) Dagon: MC, stop gazing at the abyss.

Dagon plays tour guide.
Dagon: This is R'lyeh II, designed after a memory of a lost city. Tokyo summers are really hot and I understand how Therians feel, so I thought this undersea place would be a good idea. Andvari agreed when I went to talk to him about it.
Behemoth: You just casually built all this!?
Gullinbursti: How wealthy ARE you...?
Reprobus: (stares)
Dagon: Haha, flattery will get you...some fresh bread now that I think about it. I sell them in my gift shop, have some. Go on, explore.
Arslan: Okay! Adventure time!
Behemoth: Shopping! Reprobus, let's get that bread and then--
Reprobus: Friendship thing, got it. But first, I need a moment.

Reprobus throws himself at Dagon!
Reprobus: You must be my Master! Maybe! Your engineering skills! Your deepsea knowledge! Your beach date popularity at school!
Behemoth and Gullinburst: WHAT
MC: Does he even hear himself / Questionable standards / I know that feel
Dagon: !?
Dagon: Hmm, you want to sink into the abyss of knowledge? Well okay, if that's what you really want.
Creator/Deep Sea Ruler Dagon!

Dagon: Reprobus, why do you want a Master so much anyway?
Reprobus: (surprised)
Reprobus: Because that's my role.
Dagon: So you'd take any Master then?
Reprobus: No. I want to serve the best Master in every world.
Dagon: Huh. So it's because that's what you want, and not because you have to?
Reprobus: (stares)
Dagon: Why do you want a forever job anyway?
Reprobus: ...so I can always help Master.
Dagon: A Master you haven't met yet and don't even know if you're of any help yet? A Master whose wants you don't even know either? Is it that work is the only time you don't think about your anxieties? I know how it is.
Emotional damage! Random flashback!

MC: Reprobus? / Dagon, stop! / Criminal taking advantage!
Dagon shrugs.

Dagon: ...okay sorry for getting into your business like that, Reprobus. You're interesting though. Guess we'll see if I'm your Master soon?
Gullinbursti: (frowns)
Gullinbursti is getting uncomfortable flashbacks to his summoning and starting event. And now for a plot twist!

Rando: OH NO SHARK
End of Episode part

Live A Hero Special Episode: Third Anniversary Celebration (Abridged)

One day at Parallel Flight
Huckle, Ryekie, and Crowne are sitting on a couch.

Huckle: MC, why are we here?
MC: It's a surprise!
Crowne: I bet you've guessed what's up unlike Ryekie by now.
Ryekie: Not a clue here!
MC: We're good, guys! Akashi?
Akashi: Screen's up! Sui?
Sui: Ready here. Mokdai.
Mokdai: Thanks guys! Roll the video!

From Neo-Axis
Cerastium: Hello, how have you all been doing since we last met?
Rexer: MC asked us to get together for a video message.
Shaft: And MC got us into our variant suits while they were at it.
Toshu: Wouldn't visiting in person or writing be better for this?
Rexer: Aww, don't be like that. I'm glad we're all together again! I've gotten better, so call me if you need me!
Shaft: Yeah my job means I might see Parallel Flight more often. Thanks for always calling on me!
Toshu: Let's all do our best together. Also don't forget your summer homework, Tamamura.
Rexer: Mokdai, thanks for your comment on my stream the other day!
Cerastium: Justice, I'll show you my own path next time!
Team Virtual Fest waves before the video cuts out.
Parallel Flight

Ryekie: Wow, Ceras is doing great! Can't wait to meet everyone again!

Next video feed from Somewhere
Sensettia: Hey MC, Crowne! How're you guys? I'm still alright!
Viscunam: Are you watching, MC? The girlie seems strangely excited to see you.
Sensettia: SHUT UP you're like that too when you're inventing!
Viscunam: Ha, what else do you expect!? My image recorder will make me famous if it works out! What do you think of it, MC? It--
static

Sensettia: Viscunam the projector is on fire!
Viscunam: Oh, output limits. Okay, time to make it quick girlie!
Sensettia: Stop being so calm! I guess that's it for us here, see you next time!
Viscunam: I'll show you even better inventions when we meet again!
click
Crowne: Welp, good to see them doing alright. Is that ship Viscunam's invention too? Are they gonna be okay...?

Procy's bar
Anna: Haiiii, we're calling in from Pro-Pro's bar!
Procy: Why are you going first? Oh whatever. We're together because MC asked us to put a message together for you guys.
Gomeisa: Yay, cheering messages so fun!
Anna: Inorite!? I perk up too when I'm cheering people on!
Phein: You people are strangely into this. Hmm. Cheering isn't really my forte... well how about I send candy to MC's agency later, Procyon?
Procy: ...that sounds like you alright. Anyways, keep supporting your kouhais, Huckle and Ryekie!
Phein: Right. Ahem, call me if you need a mercenary to protect you.
Anna: Phinny, like chillax! Gomei-mei, ready to do our dance?
Gomeisa: Okay!
Anna and Gomeisa dance. Procy and Phein smile as they watch.
click

Ryekie: Oh my god Huckle, Procy SMILED! That's kind of awesome!
Huckle: Right, he seems kinder than before.

Suhail's ship
Suhail: S'up losers, you got a lot of people now I see! Here's a special cheer from me to you guys: take ALL the things you're after!
Purple: Oh my god Boss you're so cool!
Suhail: I am, aren't I? And I can't believe you actually asked me to make a video message, so I just had to do it! Keep at it and maybe we'll face off, it'll be great! *(fist pumps towards the camera)*
click
Huckle: MC, that seemed more like a challenge than a show of support.
Ryekie: It's cool! They can bring it!

Shinraku
Kouki: Hey Parallel Flight, thanks for everything you've done!
Sirius: bark bark!
Gammei: Making a video in virtual space feels WEIRD.
Kouki: What'd you expect? It's hard enough as it is to do this with my schedule!
Tsuneaki: Yeah, being that famous is hard.
Gammei: ...I guess.
Tsuneaki: Thanks for calling me, MC. And to everyone else I'm Tsuneaki Toshuku, nice to meet you!
Gammei: How do you manage to make an introduction sound so sus?
Tsuneaki: RUDE
Kouki: Hey wait you're wasting call time and I still have to talk!
Sirius: Bark!
Gammei: Whoops, gotta go. Here's to working with you in the future.
Team Shinraku bows and waves. Click.

Ryekie: I'm glad Kouki and Gammei are doing okay!
Crowne: Tsuneaki seems interesting. His talismans aren't mechanical, are they?

Sui brings out Phein's candy. Akashi brings out coffee.
Some café, maybe

Esperdica: Hello, did my coffee blend make it?
Raizi: Perdy worked hard on it, so it should be good.
Tabit: Beep boop, this unit and friends have rebuilt the Stella Campanella. Guild Eagle Eyes contract established. Will work hard!
Raizi: Uh, you can chill.
Esperdica: Actually we got Yoshiori to taste test too.
Yoshiori: Do I have to do this? This is WEIRD. Fine, but I'm not repeating myself! MC, thanks for listening to me back then. Tell me if you need anything. But only because the bodyguard/client relationship needs trust!
Esperdica: Come visit my café sometimes!
Raizi: Damn you don't miss a beat. But I'll be there too.
Tabit: Meeting with MC's friends requested. Repayment of services will be rendered!
Raizi and Esperdica are chill. Tabit waves really hard. Yoshiori looks embarrassed. Click.

Crowne: Welp, guess I should go to Esperdica's café sometime.
Ryekie: Let's all go soon then!
Huckle: Thanks Akashi, Sui. Looks like you two practiced making coffee.
Akashi and Sui blush.

Space Rome
Alphecca: Akashi, Huckle! We just destroyed a fiend nest at Aques the other day!
Obsidius: It was kinda tricky but MC's operating was great!
Rakta: And MC asked us to make a video message for you all.
Alphecca: Camaraderie is so delightful!
Rakta: Take care of your health! And don't overeat!
Quick aside

Mokdai: (looks away)
Huckle: (looks away)
Sui: (sighs)
Space Rome

Obsidius: Call me if you need any walls pounded down!
Theoreol: earth seems interesting. call me if you need an alchemist. i will be sure to come within a century if needed!
Obsidius: You could hurry up with that, you know.
Alphecca: But anyways, thank you all for everything! I swear to come running if ever needed!
Team Space Rome waves, splashing water. Click.

Akashi: Now that I think about it, a space king making a video message is weird.
Huckle: There are new things to see even at my age.
Mokdai: Welp, that was everything!
Huckle: Yes, thank you. It must have been hard getting so many people together.
Akashi: Yeah. Damn MC, do you know like literally everyone?
Sui: It's amazing considering how you haven't been at this that long.
Crowne: It's cool! Operators fight with the power of social networking!
Huckle: I guess, but didn't the video include villains...?
Ryekie: Whatever! That's just how much attention we have!
Huckle: No, that's kind of a big deal though? But it's true MC brought us a lot more work.
Crowne: Yep, especially compared to when Ryekie was handling the business.
Huckle: I'm glad to see you've all worked so hard to reach so far. And I suppose it's MC's nature to draw people to them.
Everyone looks at MC.

Sui: I want to thank you and President Huckle too. I wouldn't be working here helping people otherwise...this feels awkward.
Mokdai: Yeah MC, I stepped up because of you. Thanks for saying I'm cool!
Akashi: You've grown as an operator. It's great fighting with you. I'll get stronger so I can better protect you...stop smiling like that!
MC: Thanks guys! Here's to the future!
Huckle: Akashi, don't forget about your school work.
Akashi: Oof, balancing hero work and school work is my biggest issue...
Everyone laughs.

Ryekie: Let's eat, guys!
Huckle: But first, a speech. Ryekie, you do it.
Crowne: Right, you always make Huckle do it every other time.
Ryekie: OOF. But I must then, because I'm a hero! (ahem)
Ryekie: It feels like forever ago since you all joined us, but Huckle and I are happy to see how you've all grown! Let's make it to Year 4!
The Gang: YEAH
End of Episode