Oedo Christmas Prologue (Abridged)

Edo
Otter: OH GOD I'M BEING CHASED!
Otter hides under some building. Ninjas run by.
Otter: Is this a youkai hunt? But my sweet, sweet fur is all I have going for--
Ninjas pop up behind Otter!
Otter: OH NO
Sandayu: (saves Otter) Dang you really suck at this youkai thing.
Otter: Thanks Sandayu, you're such a cool youkai!
Sandayu: Skedaddle on home already, sheesh. The boss gonna be hella mad you slipped out.
Otter: Aww, can't you pwease help me out there??
Sandayu: You're gonna do this again aren't you
And so Sandayu and Otter walk off.

Somewhere Inside
Gorozaemon: Sooo where were you at this hour?
Otter: Um...going out like a good youkai and seeing if any of us were being attack! Who knew it'd be me?
Gorozaemon: (sighs and pokes Otter's face) You got guts, kid. Edo's dangerous for us right now though. People blame us for everything weird happening, even if it's true! Just stay safe until we can do the Night Parade for realsies.
Otter: (frowns)
Gorozaemon: Now be a good boy and play with the others.
Otter: ...'kay. And sorry for before. (walks inside while having a flashback)

Flashback!
Otter: Let's be friends!
Ciramantep A: OH NO HE'LL PULL PRANKS AND STEAL OUR SOULS
Ciramantep B: Listen to your parents!
Otter: Hey I don't do any of that! I just forget a lot!
Present
Otter: Everything I do blows up on me... (stares out the window)
Green: Is the boss mad at you again? Wow!
Yellow: You suck!
Otter: Sounds like somebody wants to get eaten!
And then they go on to play hide and seek.

Later
Gouryou: damn another samurai ambushing a chump for a sword test. Welp, I'm depressed! So let's go have fun at the red light district and--
Horus: Shut up and help!
Gouryou: Fiiine, things are obvious since the chump's bag is still here. Dude's beat up enough that it can't be some samurai testing his moves or something.
ACE★DETECTIVES Horus and Gouryou!
Horus: Ugh, you could start making an effort to begin with. So maybe this is some youkai distraction?
Gouryou: Well it has to be someone who was strong enough cut this poor bastard down in one shot.
Horus: Investigate with the locals, got it.
Gouryou: I'm not moving a goddamn step!
Horus: Bold. Now get those feet moving, pig.
Gouryou: OW STOP PULLING MY EAR

Main Street
Horus: Why are there so many people here? Is there a fight?
Tanetomo: Oh, Lord Oni Hayabusa! A firefighter and sumo wrestler are arguing about who's more popular.
Horus: T-that's it? The insolence!
Ashigara: WE'RE the hottest of the three hot jobs in Edo!
Those three jobs would be the sumo wrestler, the detective, and the firefighter.
Ulaanbaatar: Says you. It's US, the firefighters!
Cheers and applause!
Ashigara: OOF! Yasuyori, say something!
Yasuyori: uhh, I'm okay with just being liked
Ashigara: TRAITOR
More cheering!

Gouryou: HEY! I'm in this too, and I'mma get ALL the cute babes!
Horus: (stares) My reputation is sinking already.
fight fight fight
Tanetomo: Wait! We should settle this with a duel, even if there's three of you! As Edo's prettiest, I volunteer as judge!
Ashigara: You're on!
Tanetomo: I need more judges though. Oh! Can you help?
Turing: ...me?
Tanetomo: Yes, we need a noble and refined outsider to make it fair.
Turing: Okay, if you're good with a caustic critic like me.
Tanetomo: Even better!
Ashigara, Ulaanbaatar, and Gouryou are starting to think this is a bad idea.

Tanetomo: Okay now, start acting hot. Go.
Ulaanbaatar: Then gimme someone hot to hit on! If I gotta get my game on it doesn't have to be with you!
Gouryou: Yeah! Get someone super hot!
Tanetomo: Okay fine maybe I can't double duty then. Uhh...oh! (grabs someone from the crowd)
Onamuji: Oh no what did I do wrong!?
Tanetomo: Nothing. How about you help us out because reasons?
Ashigara: Oh my god you can't just ask Edo's guardian deity to get hit on!
Tanetomo: I didn't know you were so chicken.
Ashigara: BRING IT
Onamuji: Nooo, I can't do it!

Look it's Inaba.
Inaba: I heard you talking about love and relationships, let me in on this! I'm the best judge on that!
Tanetomo: Okay! We still need a hot date for this to work so maybe I really will need to volunteer as tribute.
Turing: I have an idea, love!
Turing seems to be having fun as he points at someone in the crowd.
MC: ...ME!? / I thought I was just spectating! / aww shucks fine
Tanetomo: Hmm...Goemon's new kabuki actor? That works, I guess. Would you?
Horus: NOOO, NOT MY UNCLLLLEEEE
Tanetomo: what?
Horus: Uh, I mean... (wait what if the rabbit says Uncle and I go together perfectly?) ...I'm joining in too!
Gouryou: Tee hee, not so above it all, huh?
Horus grabs Gouryou by the head with his claws.
Ashigara: Bring it on!

Battle Without Honor and Humanity, start! Ulaanbaatar's up first!
MC's visiting a shrine. Someone's already there ringing the bell.
Ulaan: Hey MC, here to make my wish come true already?
MC: you're just saying that / aren't you already hot and popular? / same wish!
---
(A) Ulaan: All's fair in love and war for the hottest babe in town!
(B) Ulaan: That'd be you.
(C) Ulaan: Hooray!
---
Ulaan: Soooo I notice we're alone now. Wanna go...have some fun?
MC: (nod and go with him) / (slap him)
(AB) Ulaan: :D
(C) Ulaan: OW

Later
Ashigara: Dang, I bet the judges will love that!
Horus: I have to do THAT!? But then again...
Turns out the judges flunked Ulaanbaatar, 0/10 would not ogle.
Ulaanbaatar: But why tho!?
Tanetomo: Because I'M the cutest and hottest in Edo, get it right.
Inaba: You went to the wrong god's shrine if you want good luck in love. Your lack of faith is disturbing.
Turing: Your game is boring.
MC: Big fat zeroes, huh? Harsh but fair. / I think you're a winner!
---
(C) Ulaan: Aww geez thanks, hot stuff
---
Tanetomo: (now how else can I be petty? People need to know I'm LEAGUES above them in hotness.)
Inaba: (gold rush for our shrine!)
Turing: (I hope the next one is fun to clown on too)
Ashigara: Oh no we're doomed!
Ulaan: rip everyone's scores
Gouryou: hold my beer, guys!

Gouryou's turn!
Fancy date spot teahouse!
Gouryou: Table please, MC! Or bench I guess.
MC: Aren't you alone?
Gouryou: Nope! YOU'RE my date! C'mon, my treat.
MC: I'm supposed to be working, but fiiiine just a minute.
This teahouse has soba noodles, which Gouryou gets for MC.
Gouryou: Here you go. How come nobody's tried anything with you? Were you saving yourself for me~?
MC: (nod) / did you have to say it out loud / not really
Smug Gouryou.
Gouryou: I joined in as half a joke, but I might go all out for you. I got you the GOOD stuff, so you owe me a good time hehehe
MC: ... / (kick) / (slap)
(A) Gouryou: :D
(B) Gouryou: OW
(C) Gouryou: OW

Later
Turing, Tanetomo, and Inaba: FAIL
Gouryou: Noooo
MC: damn / you're a 100 in MY book!
Ashigara: oh no how am I supposed to do this!?
Horus: (steps forward) I want to go next because the elite cannot fail!
Horus just walks up and kneels in front of MC instead of putting on an elaborate scene.
Horus: ...MC, I've always admired you. Will you exchange vows with me?
The crowd rushes Horus!
Rando A: TAKE ME LORD HORUS
Rando B: You naughty heart stealer, you!
Horus: WHAT

Ulaanbaatar and Gouryou are jealous.
Ulaan: God I wish that were me. Why is it that people like super serious guys like him?
Gouryou: Welp we sure lost.
MC: He's putting on a front, but he hasn't totally pulled it off yet. Oh fine, I'll help him.
Turing: Hey love, best you step back from the hubbub before you get pulled in and complicate things.
Gouryou: Turing, you didn't hold back at all when you were judging us!
Turing: Ha ha, let's let bygones be bygones shall well? I wasn't the one living out my fantasies five minutes ago. We're supposed to meet today to figure out how to get back to present day Tokyo from its past.
Ulaan: Shouldn't we be helping Horus or something?
Turing: He's got it covered.

Hmm, the crowd seems upset now.
Rando A: HORUSSSS! ...what? Hey back off, you!
Rando B: noooo my sweet Horus has jilted me...
The party goes to some empty house.
Otter: Heya guys!
Horus (from somewhere): OTTER HOW DARE YOU TURN ME INTO A MARKETABLE PLUSHIE
MC: Huh. I hear Horus but don't see him. (looks around)
Chibi Horus jumps out of Otter's clothes!
Horus: Stop doing this to me!
Otter: But you're so cuuute!
End of Episode

Live A Hero The Star Ocean Cruise Train Episode 8 (Abridged)

Esperdica: We're keeping that promise, Digram! Now let me keep spamming my Super Move until it sticks!
Esperdica charges up his Parallel Weapon!
Blue: Beep boop l-l-l-look oooouuuuttttt
Infected Droid is charging an attack!
Raizi: Perdy, disengage and wait for another chance!
Esperdica: ...understood! There's so many of them! I need more time to fill the room with coffee smoke...
MC: Yoshiori! / Tabit!
(A) Yoshiori: Run interference, got it!
(B) Tabit: Guard order, recieved!

Yoshiori: Tabit, you stop the droids! I'll shoot down any attacks they manage to get off!
Tabit: Roger!
Tabit morphs around!
Tabit: Nanosword Arm!
Yoshiori: Raizi, Esperdica! Get ready to fire while I set them up! Wait, get down! Enemies behind you!
Yoshiori uses two guns to shoot down the mobs' attacks!
Raizi: Thanks! Perdy, go for it! VP Charge!
Esperdica: Right! Coffee Smoke Blast!
The mobs fall over from the coffee smoke!
MC: It worked! The soldiers seem fine(ish), now we just have to stop Digram...

Digram: (in pain) beep boop elim-m-m-manating viruuussss p-p-p-please hooollld
Digram points his railgun above MC!
MC: wAIT
Yoshiori: MC!
Yoshiori tackles and covers MC from falling debris Digram caused!
Yoshiori: Shit he's gonna blow a hole open if he keeps doing tht. MC, stay low. Firing Bodyguard Special!
MC: Thanks Yoshiori!
Yoshiori: Heh, save it for when we're done. We're in this together...so getting us all through okay is what we can do now.
Raizi: Yoshiori, MC! Digram's acting weird!

Digram: Virus elimination 98% annnnnd beep boopo sec-c-c-curity patch errorrrrr
MC: Oh no!
Tabit: Virus evolving! Patch update needed!
One of the soldiers twitches a finger.
W-504: L-Leader, connect for...new virus data for patch...
Tabit: Stop! Energy low, don't move...but, thank you. One moment.
Tabit detaches a few nanomachines to connect with the droid and gets the new data to update his patch.
Raizi: You updated the patch? Cool! Now we gotta get it into Digram. He gets rid of the virus, case closed, problem solved! Except Digram's running low on energy too, so it's now or never!
The patch is ready!
MC: Tabit, help him!

Digram: p-p-p-please geeet awaaayyyy beep boop errrorrr, charging railguuuunnnn
Tabit: (jumps up above Digram) Executing order! Nanomachine Break!
Digram and Tabit's supers clashing flashbangs the whole engine room!
Raizi: OH GOD I CAN'T SEE! Tabit, what's going on!?
Yoshiori: MC, don't let go of my hand!
Esperdica: Digram!
When everything settles down...
MC: Oh no, Tabit!
Digram: Patch update complete, virus eliminated. Switching to backup.
MC: Digram!
Tabit: ...order, completed.
MC: Everyone's okay!

Digram and Tabit smile and nod at each other.
Digram: Tabit connected into my systems and updated the virus patch.
Tabit: Must protect friends! Digram friend too.
Digram: ...thank you very much. Now, last order of business to return things to business as usual. MC, VP Charge me please. (points weapon at engine core)
MC: Okay!
Digram: My Weapon can also return the engine core's system to normal. Firing ultimate special!
Digram fires a magic blue-white bullet that fixes the engine!
Yoshiori: Awesome, the train stopped shaking!
Raizi: ...damn, nice game you two.
Tabit: Train okay!
Digram: Yes. Systems green, confirmed. Engine fix, compl--(falls over)
Esperdica: Digram!?

Title Card: Beyond The Southern Cross

Ding dong
Digram: Attention, passengers. The Stella Campanella has been delayed, but the problems have been solved and the cruise is back on schedule. We apologize for the inconvenience. We will be stopping at the nearest station for maintenance and inspection, thank you for understanding. Estimated arrival at station is at one hour, seventeen minutes and thirty two seconds.
Elevator music~
Yoshiori: Damn, it's finally over.
The party (minus Digram) is in the cafe area in the second train car.
MC: Tired / We can finally relax!

Yoshiori: It was freaky how Digram just fell over like that towards the end.
Esperdica: You and Raizi were more worried than I was. But I'm glad things are okay.
Raizi: Well what did you expect when the group MVP keeled over out of the blue? I wasn't expecting him to crap out on batteries like all the soldier droids.
Yoshiori: Yeah I was worried we broke him back there. He's got a unique design, so he's tougher than all those droid mobs.
Tabit: Digram tired, but sleep charged batteries! No virus damage. Other friends will be okay!
Digram walks in.
Digram: Thank you everyone, for all your efforts at solving the operational difficulties we had encountered.
MC: You seem okay! / Is it okay for you to be working again already?

Digram: Yes, normal operations are possible again. Thank you once more for cooperating with my reckless proposed suggestion. However...
His tone sounds the same as always, but he looks down a little.
Digram: My deepest apologies for still attacking you all.
MC: It's cool! We're friends!
Digram: !?
Digram: ...but such actions were unacceptable to occur.
Esperdica: You were fighting to protect us, weren't you? If anything, we should be thanking you.
Raizi: Yeah, you were trying hard. You did it, so enjoy it all now.
Digram: ...understood. On behalf of the Stella Campanella, I thank you all.
Digram kneels by MC.
Digram: ...MC, my success was thanks to your operation. I could hear your orders even through all the virus errors. (takes MC's hand) Your voice was like a wake up call from a nightmare. Heh. That might be the first time I've experienced anything like a dream. Thank you for persisting.
MC: ...I'm glad you're okay.

Yoshiori: Okay, that's enough sappiness. Digram, is the case closed yet?
Digram: ...negative. General operations are working, but interior damage remains to be fixed.
Yoshiori: Oh. Okay I guess.
Raizi: Yeeeaaah, I guess an engine can't clean up virus damage that fast.
Digram: Some services have become unavailable, but there are plans to reopen them after repair work is done.
Esperdica: I can help if you need it. I'm still a temp worker here even if I'm mainly a cafe barista.
Digram: Thank you.
Tabit: ...request: friends and I want to help fix train. Please, Digram. Wanted to return to Tronesion, but you informed us. Reconstruction efforts underway, so we want to help on this ship to make up for things. We responsible for damages, but friends no longer any danger. Want to help protect Stella Campanella.
Digram: ...unable to make unilateral decisions. However, I can make the suggestion to headquarters.
???: That's unnecessary.
Someone just walked in!
Yoshiori: Hey that's the space ship company CEO we met at the beginning!
MC: Yeah! / suddenly nervous now

CEO: MC, I apologize for all the sudden difficulties that happened after you got on. I've been informed of what you all did, and I'm sorry for all the dangers you were all exposed to.
Raizi: It's cool, this isn't the sort of thing anyone expects to happen.
Esperdica: We're sorry for all the damages we caused...
CEO: It's okay, it was a security staff issue, my fault. But you all solved it, and I can't thank you enough for that. (proper Japanese bow)
Tabit: ...apologies. Root cause was virus carried by friends.
CEO: No, that's our responsibility for hiring them.
Digram: ...query: what will happen to them?
CEO: We've arranged to do a deep virus scan and cleaning at the next stop for them. (takes a breath) Excuse me, I must get back to work. Please enjoy your stay. (runs off)

Digram: Anyways, Tabit your wish is mostly okay aside from the fact that you and your group are currently temp heroes. Additionally, you will require funding if you wish to go back to Tronesion. Suggestion: consider your next course of actions.
Tabit: Hmm... how solve?
Esperdica: Well you are all temp contracted through Parallel Flight, but that won't last forever.
Raizi: You should join an agency that's not worried about their service area. Maybe I'll ask mine for suggestions for you.
MC: I guess I'll ask President Huckle or Procy.
Esperdica: ...how about a mercenary agency? You're ex-military.
Raizi: Oh yeah I remember there being a place like that.
Esperdica: Yes, they have lots of combat and defense pros. I'll ask my agency if they can get their contact information.
Tabit: Thank you everyone!

Digram sends Tabit a Space Discord DM!
Digram: Requesting communication to deliver report.
Tabit: Acknowledged. What is this report?
Digram: ...should you return to Tronesion, there is the possibility of you and the soldiers undergoing a factory reset depending on the circumstances.
Tabit: !?
Tabit: ...requesting elaboration.
Digram: Tronesion has ordered the disposal of all wartime service member information after the war ended. As a communication and transport unit I did not qualify as such, but all construction and espionage units were. You and your spec ops team may also qualify.
Tabit: ...I do not want to lose my records of my friends, but I do not know of any place besides Tronesion where I can replace my nanomachines. If maintenance and resupply is unavailable, fatal error and loss of reboot function probability may rise. If maintenance is needed, we will go back to Tronesion.
Digram: ...suggestion: the droids may be able to get some maintenance done in the Earth Sphere Region due to similar technology. Nanomachine resupply will be left to your judgment.
Tabit: ...understood. Thank you.
End Space Discord DM phone chat!

MC: Hey Tabit, have you ever written a resume? Might look different from ours...
MC shows Tabit a sample resume on their phone.
Yoshiori: You can't just start there for explanations!
Esperdica: It's something you'll need to record your work history if you apply to a new agency.
Raizi: Speaking of, that agency responded and said they want to see your work history first. It's called Guild Eagle Eyes. It should be able to use your past combat experience.
Tabit: ...right. Past combat experience. (grabs dog tag) Thank you! Will apply there!
Yoshiori: Wow you're into this. Guess I'll recommend you. Show them the videos of our battles here.
Esperdica: I think they'll accept that.
Digram: No problems foreseen.
Tabit: Thank you! Promise to become hero, help everyone and pay back for help!

Yoshiori: Okay let's stop talking about this now. Not like it has to be done NOW.
Raizi: Yeah. I'll help you write your stuff until the casino opens back up.
MC: I can help with paperwork too!
Yoshiori: Cool. Looks like Tabit and his friends' stuff is settled, so let's go get some good food for a party.
Esperdica: Oh yes, the Stella Campanella has many excellent choices.
Yoshiori: Awesome! We never had a chance to enjoy anything. I mean your coffee was great but we didn't have the time to experience it all. I want a gelato with it next time! MC, order up for me. (starts pointing at dessert menu things)
MC: Sweets suit you, soldier. / I want something too! What about you guys?
(A) Yoshiori: ARE YOU MAKING FUN OF ME!?
(BC) Tabit: Want to know everyone's likes! For reference! MC, you?

Esperdica: I'll go make after meal coffees for everyone, so go ahead and enjoy...
Yoshiori: What? Sit down and join us.
Raizi: Yeah, you saved this ship too you know.
Esperdica: Really? ...heh, okay then. Tabit, Digram, you two should join us too. Tell us about yourselves.
Digram: Order Friendly request received. If soldiers can be delegated interior ship repair, delays may be shortened. Reserving break time in hopes of spending time socializing with friends.
Tabit: Also want to know more about new friends! Call friends, talk about Tronesion!
Raizi: Oh, the soldier droids are coming? Wanna play a game after? I got cards and dice. More players means more fun. So's having a bet.
Esperdica: Pick something we have a fair chance of winning at, please.
Raizi: I will! It's more fun that way. Good food and your coffee, and what more could I ask for to go with a game?
MC: Awesome!

Digram: ...Esperdica, a question?
Esperdica: (grinding beans) Yes?
Digram: You have previously asked to know more about me. Requesting direction or clarification.
Esperdica: Oh that. Anything's fine really. What you like, your hobbies, skills, funny thoughts...you little secrets.
Digram: ...understood. What if I said I am actually a human in a robot suit?
Shocked party!
MC: WHAT
Digram: Kidding.

Relieved sighs.
Yoshiori: R-right. Oh my god, Digram knows how to tell jokes? Oh MY GOD is he still infected!?
Esperdica: N-no, Tabit's scans said it was gone...right? Tabit, did you give Digram a literal joke function?
Tabit: N-no? Digram just joking.
Raizi: ...HA! Digram wins!
Digram: ...I am clear of viruses. Understood, installing Earth jokes for next time.
And so muzak starts playing as food arrives.
Later
Digram: We will soon be arriving at our temporary stop. Please watch your feet if departing. Our next stop will last about two hours, so please enjoy the view of the galaxy. And please return with time to spare ahead of our departure time. Safe travels.
The Stella Campanella rides towards the Southern Cross across the infinite universe to its mystery destination, with the sounds of joy and laughter lighting its way...
The End

The Hazardous Private Tutor and the Dangerous Beast Part 2 (Abridged)

Shamash is the one said to have given humanity a code of law back in Babil. The true nature of his power could be called equivalence. Eye for an eye and all that between victim and perpetrator. It's a bit like the Tokyo Wall's attack reflection property, and it also means Shamash HAS to know the pain of victims, so everyone has to take the punishment for their sins. So if he ever sees someone he doesn't know and understand...
Nerima
The army prison school is doing a program for applicants from other schools!
Balor: Muster, maggots!
Purple Giant: Squad 3, all present!
Green Giant: Squad 1, all present!
Blue Giant: Squad 4, Shamash AWOL!
Balor: What? Dammit. Oh whatever, I'll just punish him when he gets back since I can't be bothered to chase after him. Rest of you, move your asses!

Kabukicho
Hawker: Come visit our host or hostess club or whatever!
MC is here on guild business.
MC: I'm going to be late! / ooh / (step it up)
Cat: Hey, we got a good deal going on in our club tonight! Wanna come?
MC: Sounds fun for a party / No thanks, busy! / (ignore)
Cat: I have fliers! Look, the menu!
Lots of interruptions by hawkers.
???: Huh, wrong person? Whatever, I'm after the same person.
Ixbalanque pulls MC back with his arm and tail!

Ixbalanque: Hey Senpai, lost without me? I'm going to a different place, but I'll take a flier. We should go before we're late. Also my guy, did you know I can call the police on you for unlawful detaining of people?
Cat: Uh, come visit another time! Bye!
The cat hawker goes to bother someone else. Ixbalanque sighs and lets go.
MC: How come you're here? / You've got plans to be somewhere around here? / are you following me
(B) Ixbalanque: Nope.
(C) Ixbalanque: Ruuude. I just happened to see you in trouble.

Ixbalanque: I've been sent on an errand. Also back up a bit, I did my good deed for the moment already.
MC steps back.
Ixbalanque: Anyways, how come you're here alone?
MC: Everyone else is busy... / I'm tough! / You seem happy about this
---
(A) Ixbalanque: Oh okay, whatever you say. You don't SEEM like someone with no friends anyway.
(B) Ixbalanque: Huh, 'kay. Watch out for anyone coming to flex on you.
(C) Ixbalanque: This job I'm on sucks so seeing you look stupid made me feel better.
---
Ixbalanque: Let's keep walking. Anyways, have you seen him?
Ixbalanque holds up his phone to show a picture of Shamash.
MC: Shamash? Not today. / You need a tutor?
(C) Ixbalanque: How are you still alive with brains like that? You'd be dead already if this was the Amazon.

Ixbalanque: But damn, you really do know everyone. We're part of the same group and he skips out of stuff. Like, a lot. I was asked to find him.
MC: Huh, that's nice of you. But why here in Kabukicho?
Ixbalanque: He's around here a lot, so I figured he'll be here now. I bet you wanna ask why, huh?
MC: Maybe he's somewhere else / Yeah / Nah, you're probably right.
---
(AB) Ixbalanque: Ugh, your instinct sucks Senpai. I said so, so he's here.
(C) Ixbalanque: !! Well damn. Barely passing on the comeback there.
---
Ixbalanque: Anyways, Shamash is badly matched against people like me. Hey Senpai, how about you help me look for him? I can look out for you until you're done with your stuff to pay you back if you're in a hurry
MC: are you hitting on me / this seems unbalanced / okay, let's go
(A) Ixbalanque: Eh, it'll be interesting having you along at least. And hey, if you turn out to be a big help we can talk favors.
(B) Ixbalanque: Well we can talk out favors owed later depending on how things go. Good luck with that.
(C) Ixbalanque: Have you considered that you might be too polite to tell people to go away?

Ixbalanque: We cool? Cool.
MC and Ixbalanque move on. Ixbalanque makes hawkers go away with just a look, so MC manages to make it to the Outlaws' place a few minutes early.
Ixbalanque: You're a guildmaster, right? Good thing you had me walking with you here. I'll wait outside. If I'm gone when you get back, I saw Shamash.
Shino walks over and eyes Ixbalanque suspiciously.
Shino: Good evening, Master. Who is that, a guard you brought along from outside?
MC: Moritaka has a kendo tournament and Tadatomo is on guard duty. People are busy.
Shino: Oh. You could have called me to pick you up then. The Summoners and Outlaws are allies!

Shino takes MC inside to a VIP room.
Ellie: Schleeepy...oh hi you.
Tsukuyomi: Hello, we have a new menu item. I can treat you if you want?
MC: Wow you're up, Ellie? / Tsukuyomi, you smell nice... / whoa you two are together here
(A) Ellie: Sleepy, but the occasional guild business won't kill me. Everyone else is standing guard. I guess that's why you came alone too?
(B) Tsukuyomi: I refreshed my cologne for you. I wish the others were here, but I guess people are busy with guild battles.
(C) Ellie: I woke up because of you, so I hope you're happy.
Tsukuyomi: Eh, relax. This isn't anything big.

This is a regular alliance meeting. Nothing's going on, so MC asks about Shamash after some small talk.
Tsukuyomi: I don't remember seeing him before. Or regularly at least. Ellie?
Ellie: I see him around at night sometimes. I'll mark it on the app map. We done for today? Sucks for you, Tsukuyomi.
Tsukuyomi: Eh, short visits are no big deal. You regretting waking up early?
Ellie: Nah. Seeing MC being same as usual amuses me a little.
Tsukuyomi: Same. MC, feel free to come see me off the clock sometime~!
MC says bye to them and heads out front. Ixbalanque is sitting nearby.
Ixbalanque: Well that was fast. Found something about Shamash-senpai to look like that?
MC: Yep / Got info / Praise me!
(AB) Ixbalanque: Really? I was just kidding. Okay, I can treat you to dinner if you have time. Let's go.
(C) Ixbalanque: Really? I was just kidding. Alright, good MC! (headpats MC)

Later
It's starting to get crowded outside.
MC: Damn / Don't get lost now / So are you and Shamash friends?
---
(A) Ixbalanque: Aww, need me to wrap my tail around you to keep you from getting lost? But yeah, this is gonna make looking for Shamash a pain in the ass. He's good at running away if nothing else.
(B) Ixbalanque: Aww, that how you try coming on strong? I can play along. But yeah, this crowd will make looking for Shamash hard since he's good at running if nothing else.
---
Ixbalanque: ...Shamash also lost a twin, like me. Also, I'm a younger brother while Shamash is an older brother. We kinda get along since we had stuff happen in our home world life. Lots of Transients in our group is like that, even if they don't know for some reason.
Wow Ixbalanque is opening up. Time for him to hide it!
Ixbalanque: Bro My brother actually made my life annoying a lot of the time. I'm used to errand running at my old school and at the army prison school's drills.
???: Ooh, what are you guys talking about?

MC: Shamash!
Shamash: Hello MC, what a coincidence seeing you here. And you Ixbalanque. Looking for something?
Ixbalanque: Yeah, you. You skipped out AGAIN and now I'm stuck doing this. I didn't expect you to choose to skip out instead of being sent out though.
MC: How long have you been watching us?
Shamash: Oh I heard you talking about me so I wanted to join in. If you two are here together, then I guess you found out a teacher like me flaked out?
Ixbalanque: Ha. You're a student too. You can actually call yourself a teacher here with a straight face? Don't you have something else to say since I had to look for your lost ass?
MC: Yeah, go Ixbalanque! / You're just going to take that, Shamash? / (watch with popcorn)

Shamash: Shouldn't you thank me since you got to see MC because of this? Or are you saying you being in a good mood has nothing to do with them?
Ixbalanque: I'm in a good mood because I found you. Seeing MC is a coincidence. YOU'RE the one in a good mood. Ooh, you like them?
Shamash: But you look upset I found you first. Were you planning on keeping your not-a-date going on some more?
Ixbalanque: I can see MC anytime. (pulls MC close) Right, Senpai?
Shamash: !?
MC: were you always like this / no? / are you asking me to marry you?
(A) Ixbalanque: :)
Shamash: You're bothering MC, let go.
Ixbalanque: (stares)
Shamash: I can't win. Please let go.
Ixbalanque: You're making me feel bad here.
(B) Shamash: Hmm. Anyways, please let go.
Ixbalanque: (blushes)
Shamash: ...umm, sorry.
Ixbalanque: Don't you go saying sorry all of a sudden. Ugh, read the room.
(C) Ixbalanque: !! Why are you escalating it? Geez, Senpai.
Shamash: Aww, cute.

Ixbalanque: Hmmmm, you seem really interested in my relationship with MC, Shamash-senpai. I might take them first if you keep going the long way around.
Shamash: Somebody's feeling extra uppity today, I see.
No one's actually mad despite all the shittalking, by the way.
Ixbalanque: Anyways, could you stop? A teacher shouldn't be telling students they're skivving off.
Shamash: Oof, I can't argue with that.
MC, Shamash, and Ixbalanque head towards Kabukicho Station.
Shamash: Balor must be mad to actually send someone to find me for once. But it's nice if I got to see you two. How about I treat you guys to something?
MC: Awesome! / Yeah I'm hungry / Shouldn't you go back now though?
Ixbalanque: What? No. Why should we play along with your cutting class?
Shamash: It's not like I can join in with the drills if I go now. Hey look, that place seems good.
MC is getting hungry.
Ixbalanque: Okay, might as well after all this way. You coming too, MC?
Shamash: I'm good on money, don't worry about that...ah!
Ixbalanque: He said we could get whatever we want MC!
Shamash: Oh no, I slipped up!

Later
Ixbalanque: I'm Best Kouhai, so I'll get our drinks and salads. MC, make sure Shamash-senpai doesn't go anywhere.
Shamash: He can be cute the way he cares about being a kouhai sometimes. I just can't hate him.
MC: Like a little brother? / same / because you're an older brother too?
(A) Shamash: Maybe.
(B) Shamash: You too? Heh, that might be the first time we're on the same wavelength. I used to have a younger twin sister, and Ixbalanque's a younger twin. Maybe we just gelled that way.
(C) Shamash: Oh, he told you that? ...yeah, maybe.

Shamash: Come to think of it, his name is similar to my sister Ishtar. (stares and smiles wryly into the distance)
Shamash: She liked flexing on and putting people in their place too. A twin's like a living what-if of yourself, especially in Tokyo. Maybe that's why I like him.
MC: It's exciting to watch him, even if he's kind of a brat. Wouldn't want him against me...
Shamash: Haha, life would be hard if he were fighting against you. Not that that stops me from wanting to keep you from him.
MC: I haven't noticed, I'm going for 1000 friends. / I like you, Shamash
---
Shamash: ...I really don't get you, but I like that.
---
Shamash: I don't know how to react here since I've always relied on my power to figure this out. Well, I can always help you if you need to talk or need to study. Oh, Ixbalanque's back. We should take our plates before he gives us grief about that.

MC and Shamash stand up. MC goes to get their things first.
Ixbalanque: Here, Senpai. And Shama--!?
MC: What? (looks back)
Wow he's gone already.
Ixbalanque: Dammit, it was just one second! Is he a ninja or something!? Ugh, is this why he sent me a text saying "have fun, I'm going back first"?
MC: I kinda figured / damn he's fast / I didn't realize he was planning it at all
Ixbalanque: Ugh, finding him again is gonna suck. He tells me a lot about how his sister's a handful, but so's he. He could stand to be more like my big bro...but then again Big Bro wouldn't have let him get away.
MC: You're actually put out by this? / I slipped up too / hey we're alone now
(C) Ixbalanque: Wow, nothing gets you down, huh? Don't get carried away now.

Ixbalanque: Don't worry about me too much. I can just tell the teachers I found him but he ran away. But it still sucks I spent all day looking for him already.
Yeah he seems upset. He tries to hide this by talking some more.
Ixbalanque: ...Shamash-senpai is like my own brother in the way he's like a nice sun. And the way it feels like he might just disappear one day...
MC: But he did just disappear, so let's keep looking. / So you weren't just stuck with errand work
---
(C) Ixbalanque: Yeah. Not like you, loitering alone in Kabukicho.
---
Ixbalanque: Having to look for him every time he skips class is annoying, but I still feel better whenever I see he's okay. Damn I sound old now. Hey, how about I catch you now and keep you from disappearing on me too?
MC: uhhhh / you already owe me / be nice, I'm new to this
---
(A) Ixbalanque: I'll be gentle, I haven't paid you back yet.
(B) Ixbalanque: dammit you remember?
(C) Ixbalanque: Just walking right into a trap yourself, huh? I'll be gentle.
---
And so MC and Ixbalanque eat and talk for a bit before going back outside to look around Kabukicho.

Some back alley
Mobster: SHIT SOMEBODY'S CHASING ME
Shamash: Nothing personal, but you need to be punished for your sins.
Flashback!
Shamash: Who hurt you, we shall pay them back
Yellow: I can't pay
Shamash: It's fine, we don't want you to dirty your hands
Present
Mobster: You're that revenge contractor!?
Shamash: Yes. We cannot let your victim wallow in misery and vengeance, so we will punish you instead.
Mobster: Creep! You'll never take me down!
The mobster attempts to shoot Shamash, but Shamash takes his gun and pushes him down!
Shamash: Equal suffering for equal suffering. Unless you repent? No? Okay fine. Noble Phantasm activate!

Kabukicho
Ixbalanque: Ooh, Qursha? I wanna play him.
MC: So competitive / He'll be happy about that / I wanna watch!
Ixbalanque: You wanna come? You can join him and play against m--
???: AAAAAA
MC: What!? That way!
Ixbalanque: Wait a sec! Oh goddammit.
Alley
MC: It was this way!
Shamash jumps away as the mobster falls over!
MC: Who was that I couldn't see. Anyways, you okay?
The mobster gets back up and runs away! Ixbalanque runs in.
MC: What? Ixbalanque, did you see someone else here?
Ixbalanque: Hey my kinetic vision is awesome, thank you. But I only saw someone I never saw before. That other guy had a gun, so we should stay out of it. He seemed fine anyways, so let's just go, Senpai.

Later
Ixbalanque (text): I told MC I just saw someone I never saw before. I won't ask what you were doing. Aren't I a great kouhai?
Shamash: ...thanks, but I wished this stayed secret from you too. At least MC doesn't know. I'll make up for things and treat them to something better next time. And now it's time to dress normally instead of a club dancer and go home.
Shamash turns around and takes a step.
Shamash: ...I'm surprised MC came running. Now I'm even more interested than I thought I'd be. Maybe I'll see them one more time before going back. Wonder how Ixbalanque would react to that?
And so Shamash goes back, the neon lights of the city shining on the new passion coloring his face.
The End

Live A Hero The Star Ocean Cruise Train Episode 7 (Abridged)

Tabit: Halt, friends!
Tabit Nanomachine Morph evades an attack!
Yoshiori: That's a thing!?
Esperdica: I intellectually knew it was possible, but still, wow.
Tabit: Taught friends combat maneuvers, know programming. But, nanomachine evasion less effective against Parallel Weapon attack!
Esperdica: Oh okay then. We better keep up!
Coffee smoke can make illusion copies now.
Esperdica: Guess which one is real?
Esperdica starts sweep kicking!
Esperdica: This will cut down on any damage taking. Go Tabit!
Tabit morphs his sword arm to attack!
MC: Wait, Tabit is that really okay!?

Raizi: It's cool, he morphed a blunt sword arm.
Tabit: ...M-871, right flank weak. T-963, slowed reaction at range. Know friends, cannot lose! Super Morph Weapon attack!
The droids are dropping nonlethally towards zero but ready to counterattack!
Red: beep boop p-p-p-pleeeaaase ev-v-v-vaaade
Digram: Eliminating attack. Please be careful of any shockwaves.
Yoshiori: Shoot the bullets, got it. MC!
MC: Okay, go Digram and Yoshiori!
Digram and Yoshiori countershoot the shots made at Tabit, causing them to explode!
Red: beep boop daaaannnngeerrr
The explosion blasts the droids against the wall, where they fall and get KOed!
Raizi: ...okay, we're done. You okay MC?
MC: Yep / Aww you're so nice, Raizi
(B) Raizi: I-I mean, of course I'd worry about a fellow commander. Geez.

Raizi: Yeah we're done. Let's save energy by quitting out of hero mode.
Esperdica: At least there aren't any passengers nearby. Tabit, how are they?
Tabit: Not destroyed. Energy shut down, reboot possible. Thank you.
Esperdica: That's good. Digram, can you check the connector terminal?
Digram: Yes, decoupling order cancelled. However, resending of command is still possible. Making announcement to Car One passengers to evacuate to other cars.
Raizi: (sighs) Man, never dreamed the train disconnecting could be a thing happening.
Digram: Car Two has subengines so train would not have been stranded, but Car One passengers still in danger.
Yoshiori: Yeah, can't expect anyone able to stop them is actually in there. And taking them down nonlethally is hard.
Raizi: Yeah, wish we could do something about the dangers ahead...

Tabit is staring at the droids.
Tabit: Friends, infected despite no radio contact. Must be direct contact with actively infected friends. Everyone get infection at this rate...
Yoshiori puts a hand on Tabit's shoulders.
Yoshiori: You want to protect them. I know how it is. Let's get to it and stop them.
Tabit: ...right. Thank you, Comrade.
Yoshiori: I ain't worried about you or anything. Also I'm not military anymore. But if you can keep going, I'll do what I can...also our Operator just can't leave people alone, heh.
MC: Just like you, Yoshiori / Let's do our best!
---
(A) Yoshiori turns away and snorts.
---
Tabit: Saving friends for sure! (grabs dog tag)
Yoshiori: ...okay, cool. Let's go, MC. We still got engine room droids to deal with.
And so the party continues on.

Later
Digram: Instability increasing. Please watch your feet. Engine room ahead, entry generally restricted to employees on patrol, investigation, and emergencies. Passengers generally prohibited, but entry possible during train tours.
Raizi: Oh. That explains the big door.
Yoshiori: Well it's an emergency now. Digram, open up.
Digram: Opening door.
Digram uses a key card.
Esperdica: ...nothing happened. Is it broken?
Digram: Engine room door locked physically and digitally. Radio-ing in now for digital lock, but key card can only unlock from inside.

Digram tries the card again. Repeatedly.
Digram: ...card reader damaged from external force.
MC: Oh no!
Esperdica: Maybe the soldiers did it based on the damage I see.
Raizi: ...any other way in? Like an air duct or--
Tabit: (steps forward) Entry possible if small gap available.
Esperdica: Oh right, nanomachine body!
Tabit: Digram, requesting key card data!
Phone static!
MC: Phone's jammed again! Seems strong now.

Tabit: ...Digram, requesting direct transfer of unlocking data!
Digram: Understood. Opening port.
Digram opens a port in his arm. Tabit morphs his arm into a compatible plug and sticks it in.
Digram: ...transmission complete. Tabit, please.
Tabit: Order processed. Commencing action.
Tabit turns into a nanomachine swarm and slips past the door.
Digram: ...? Data entry found: "I want to save my friends."  Tabit, please hurry. Results may change the quicker they are achieved. Just like before...
Inside
Tabit: Reconstruction complete. Opening door...ahh!
Outside
MC: It opened! Let's go!
Holy crap, the engine core is shining red!
Esperdica: W-what's going on!?

Title Card: What is True Happiness?

Digram: Engine core unstable.
Raizi: Yeah you could tell me it's about to blow up and I would buy that.
Esperdica: Don't bring that up! Digram, we have to fix it!
Digram: Yes. Control console is this way.
Digram leads the party in.
Yoshiori: Hey, look!
Jittery droid spotted!
Raizi: Geez, he's even more jittery than the other droids we've seen!
Tabit: Heavy infection detected. Must patch immediately, main systems badly damaged! Leader, transform us!
MC: Right, stop the guy!

The party is ready to fight!
Red: beep boop n-n-n-nooooo (holds up weapon)
Esperdica: ...we need to stop him. I'll go first and--
Tabit: Wait! Red, unable to take attacks! Might die...
Yoshiori: So what now then!? Hey wait, get down!
Yoshiori countershoots Red's bullet!
Yoshiori: Oof, the shockwave!
Digram: Yoshiori, are you okay? Please take care not to hit the core. Irreparable damage is possible.
Yoshiori: I GUESS but what do I even do then!?
Tabit: ...I go, without weapon.
Esperdica: B-but what if he attacks?
Tabit: No time for new plan!

Tabit nanoshifts behind Red!
Tabit: Red, W-504, I make things better now. Patchi--
Red: L-L-Leeaaadeeer
Red swings his gun around and charges a shot! Tabit presses on with the patch!
MC: Tabit!
Hey look, more droids walk in!
Yoshiori: Oh what the SHIT
Raizi: Wait, those are the ones we fought earlier!
The droids jump Red!
Red: guuuuuyyyyysssss
A-928: Leader, we're back and ready for action!
D-887: Some of the other guys shared their batteries with us!
C-615: We'll stop W-504!
A-928: Patch him up while we do that!
Tabit: ...roger! Resuming patch application!

Esperdica: Let's focus on the engine while they do their thing!
Digram: Understood. Accessing engine core control unit.
Raizi: No wait! Something's up with the core! Can you investigate it before you jack into it?
Yoshiori: Huh, that makes sense.
Digram: ...understood. Utilizing analog control console.
Typing on the space computer~
Digram: !! Continuous output of error code messages in error log!
MC: Oh no!
Digram: ...yes, presence of active space robot rabies virus inside engine core is extremely high.
Raizi: Score one for instinct. Can you do anything about it from here, Digram?

Tippity tap tap
Digram: Performing quarantine of virus for--[beep beep]--error, console disconnected. System unresponsive.
Esperdica: I see the virus is doing its work here too.
Digram: (stares)
Digram decides to open the plug port on his arm and is about to plug into the engine!
Yoshiori: ...wait, we all know what'll happen if you do that. You'll get infected, dammit!
Digram: ...acknowledged. However, safe running of Stella Campanella must be prioritized. Time is running short, but there are still options. Infection cannot spread further.
Digram looks at Tabit. He's trying his best over there.
Digram: ...my Parallel Weapon can transform in response to any obstacle in my way. I can act as substitute for engine system for a short time and quarantine infected files inside myself.
Yoshiori, Raizi, and Esperdica: !?
MC: NO

Digram: ...thank you for your concern MC, but I believe this to be our best option. Purging the infection by myself will be difficult, but I understand the engine core's systems and I have Tabit's patch. (stares at arm)
Digram: I will not go down easy to this virus. Requesting everyone's cooperation in restoring this unit after infection.
He's serious.
MC: what does that even mean?
Digram: I will be performing two simultaneous operations: substituting for engine system and clearing of infected files. All processing resources will be prioritized on those operations, meaning bodily control may become unstable. In case of infection-caused activity, permission granted to curb actions by force.
Yoshiori, Raizi, and Esperdica: ...

Esperdica: ...it's that important to you, isn't it?
Digram: Affirmative. Such is my order.
Esperdica: ...okay, I'm in.
Yoshiori: ...you sure, Esperdica? I figured you'd be against this.
Esperdica: Life wouldn't be worth living if I couldn't enjoy coffee anymore, if I were to reframe this towards my perspective. And so it is for keeping the train safe for him.
Raizi: (steps forward) Alright, bet. Waiting and losing by default sucks like hell anyway. I never take a bet I'll lose, so let's go win it together.
Digram: ...thank you both.
Yoshiori: ...what about you, MC?
Everyone looks at MC.
MC: ...I'll keep you safe, promise / wait, don't we have other ideas? / I dunno...
(A) Digram: ...thank you. (shakes MC's hand) But prioritize your own safety first.
(BC) Digram: ...there's no more time. Requesting your belief, MC. (holds out hand) ...I will complete this without fail. Please help me.
MC: ...okay

Yoshiori: Okay, I guess I'm in too. I'll protect everyone on this spaceship train!
Digram: Thank you...accessing engine core now.
Raizi: ...sorry Digram, but I think we should tie you up first and prevent as much rampage damage as we can.
Digram: Understood. No objections if arm module is still usable.
Esperdica: I wasn't expecting us to use the villain restraints like this...
Yoshiori: Dunno if it'll do much on Digram, but I guess it's better than nothing.
Yoshiori and Esperdica tie Digram up.
Digram: Accessing engine core now.
MC: ...be careful.
Digram makes one last acknowledgement before continuing.
Tabit: Everyone, W-504 all better now! (runs over) ...!? What happening?
MC: Tabit, get ready too! Digram's going to try to fix the engine systems.

MC catches Tabit up on the plan.
Tabit: ...Digram has patch. He will be okay. Only Digram can fix engine system.
Esperdica: All we can do is believe in him.
Plot twist!
Digram: BWOOOP
Digram snaps the wire restraint!
Yoshirori: Oh dammit all! MC, Raizi, get back!
Esperdica: Digram!? ...oh no, he can't hear us. Your orders! We need to stop him!
Yoshiori and Esperdica square up!
MC: Digram...
Raizi: MC, I know you might not want to see this, but you need to look at Digram! If you want to save him, then you have to believe!
MC nods and looks ahead.

Digram: O-o-operatiiing enginnnne systemmm
Digram has lost control and fires cables everywhere!
Tabit: Oh no! Everyone!
The cables hit all the mob droids!
A-928: What!? Everyone g-g-gettt awa-a-a-yyyy beepboop
C-615: C-c-controolll losssst, p-p-p-patch inefffec-ec-ec-ectiveee
Yoshiori: Goddammit, this again!?
Tabit: But why!? ...oh no! Virus evolved!?
Esperdica: We have to fight! MC, Raizi!
Raizi: Right, line up guys! Getting this operation on track! Sucks, but we'll have to stop them! We also have to protect Digram since he's running the engine now!
MC: Believe in Digram!
Party: !?

Digram: V-v-v-virus patch ap-p-p-pliiied
Digram and the droids are charging their weapons!
Raizi: ...welp, this is it MC! Hold the line!
Yoshiori: Yeah! I'll protect them too! I can get everyone through this alive!
Esperdica: ...Digram promised to have coffee with me later. I can't be going down now!
Tabit: ...I WILL protect Digram and friends. Still hope! Leader, your orders!
MC: Let's goooo!
BATTLE START

The Hazardous Private Tutor and the Dangerous Beast Part 1 (Abridged)

 [Note: The FKare 2 collab event is being skipped for the time being due to a personal lack of interest. Maybe someday, but don't hold your breath on that.]

Tokyo, the city of fantastical beings and people.
Shamash: Wow, the Tower of Babel reminds me of the ziggurats of my home world.
Shamash is having a flashback.
His home world was once a world of chaos where heaven and earth, humans and gods, mother and child were not yet separated. Anyways, things happened and Shamash eventually became the tutor for the Sumerian king of Uruk, raising and loving the boy who was meant to be a god. But then the boy lost someone he loved enough to call his other half, then went on a journey to find something he'd never have to give to someone else. Shamash told him "meh, you'll never find what you're looking for" because what he wanted didn't exist. But was that really the best way to communicate that? That question drives him.
Shamash: ...weird twist of fate that I'm doing the private tutor thing again. Speaking of, I have to go!

Later
Fall! The gang's going out to buy seasonal sweets.
Ryouta: We got enough for Touji and everyone else too now!
Shioru: Last week Ikebukuro, today Shinjuku huh?
Ryouta: And next week, Shibuya!
MC: I'm in. We're getting ALL the sweets! / I have plans already
---
(AB) Kengo: Me too. Workout multitasking with Ryouta errands!
(C) Ryouta: Oh, I'll get more for you then! I'm so glad everyone's helping.
Kengo: I'll be your pack mule! Workout time!
---
Shirou: Don't flunk the next test and get stuck with make up classes.
Kengo: Don't remind me about that, god!
Ryouta: Touji said he can come, so we can always buy your share for you!
Kengo: Dammit, don't assume I'm bombing already!
MC: Ooh, you're motivated / Yeah! / I'll help!
---
(AB) Shirou: Ryouta can talk anyone into doing things. But can we really all make it...?
(C) Kengo: Thanks! ...uh, what's the test on?
---
And so the gang heads for the dorms.

Chuo Park
MC: Look, Sitri! Also who's that next to him?
Sitri runs over.
Sitri: Hey Senpais! Out shopping?
Ryouta: Seasonal sweets tour! Here, take some!
Sitri: Oh, thanks! I'll share with the fam when I go home? ...I mean, no wait I left home!
Shamash walks over.
Shamash: Hello. Are you Sitri's friends? I'm his teacher.
MC: Hot...wait WHAT / Ooh, who are you? / Sitri, answer!
(AB) Shamash: !?
Sitri: STAY BACK! Senpais, stop smiling and stop them!

Sitri: Okay, he's Shamash. My parents hired him recently because my grades were dropping.
MC: I'm MC, and these are my friends.
Shamash: Hello MC. Are you a Tokyo nat--!!
Shamash reacts at shaking hands with MC.
Shamash: But how? Why? I touched you and somehow I feel like there was something I didn't understand but I don't know what! I mean, never mind. Sorry. (thinks of Marduk and frowns)
Ryouta: Hey wait I heard about you from social media! Lots of good reviews from test takers and their families!
MC: Look Kengo, a tutor! / How'd your tests go, Sitri?
(A) Kengo: Stop looking at me like that! Anyways, Sitri why are you in a park with him?
(B) Sitri: Shamash is awesome! He can read emotions with a touch!

Sitri: So I didn't know what I didn't know before he started teaching me, but he made it all make sense! And now we're, uh...doing secret private lessons.
MC: what? / oh, working out! / STUDENT-TEACHER RELATIONSHIP
---
(C) Sitri: What!? No! He's teaching me how to bulk up and be my sparring partner!
---
Sitri: Um, don't tell anyone. Also, Shamash is such a badass to be great at school and fighting!
Shamash: I have the magical ability to learn about someone's worries and troubles with a touch. It's not that impressive, I just know what I know. But it works on phys ed as well as book learning. Have you heard of the army prison academy? I go there a lot and now I'm a trainee somehow.
Sitri: I got too focused on working out and let my school work drop, so mom called and told me to hit the books. But the workouts! But Shamash knew and worked those into our lessons! He's cool! Who was that other guy you teach that my senpais know?
It's Gunzou.
Shamash: He's a sports school student. He's very open and straightforward and I even teach him about sports pro contracts. Maybe he's a bit too easy to read sometimes.
MC: Sounds cool, Shirou / Isn't that great, Kengo? / Nice, Sitri
(B) Kengo: Stop looking at me like that! ...Sitri makes a convincing argument tho.
(C) Sitri: No, don't just touch me like that! Harassment!
Shamash: By the way, my best subject is laws and I can't let crimes go unpunished. Except I see Sitri is happy with how you're treating him, so.
Sitri: !! At least give me a heads up first!

Shirou: Oh okay, if Sitri vouches for Shamash I'm all for it.
Shamash: Sure I can take you. Sitri and I are almost done for the day.
Shirou: Wait, that's nice of you but we have budget issues right now!
Shamash: First lesson's free, special offer! I started doing this to help people change their paths in life like this one tyrant did. Also Sitri tells me a lot about you, Kengo.
Ryouta: Cool, it's up to you Kengo!
Kengo: UGH I can't look stupid here then! ...well it's not like I WANT to flunk and be the talk of the gang. Bring it!
Sitri: Senpai, you're so cool!
Shamash: How nice. Okay, let me touch you. How about you too, MC?
Shirou: I think it's a great idea. Also, let us treat you to dinner at least.
Shamash: Oh, thank you. Do you have a test coming up?
Shirou: In two days...
Shamash: THAT SOON!?

And so Shamash goes with the gang to Shinjuku as Sitri leaves. He looks through Kengo's school books to figure out where to start.
Kengo: what is this sorcery
Shamash: Go back five pages. That part isn't on the test, but it'll help you figure out the parts that are. Wait, do you suck at memorization?
Kengo: Why else am I in this position?
Shamash: Oh, then let's go back two pages and work together from there.
MC: Kengo, how's it looking? / details pls, I need help
---
(A) Kengo: :/
Kengo: !!
Kengo: I think I get it???
MC: Cool, now figure out how to do it without him.
Kengo: !?
Shamash: Well MC is right about that.
Kengo: I know, god!
---
Ryouta: It's a miracle!
Shirou: Wow, I want to be taught by Shamash now too.
And so the tutoring continues, with Shamash managing to keep Kengo from bailing out.

That night
Ryouta: Hey it's about dinner time and I asked Chouji to make boxes for us. Here's one for Shamash and a big one for Kengo!
MC: Thanks! Kengo, you good?
Shamash: Thank you. Kengo, I suppose we can stop now.
Kengo: ...wait a minute it's only been an hour!? I'm so done... (falls over)
Ryouta: OH NO HE'S DEAD
Shirou: Well if he actually ever studies I should check outside for flying pigs.
MC: Damn, Shamash flexed on him. Flex on me too!

Shamash: ...heh, next time then.
Everyone cleans up and picks up their dinner time bento boxes. Kengo is alive again.
Shamash: Wow, I should learn how to make something this good. It'd make going to the prison school fun.
MC: Oh yeah, you're a student too? You ever feel like skipping out?
Shamash: Yes, I'm a third year. And I do feel that way sometimes, but having good grades means it's not a problem.
Kengo: Do you clone yourself or something to do all that?
Ryouta: Wow, that sounds like sticking bean jelly in sponge cake.
Shirou: Ryouta that sounds like an abomination mankind was never meant to think about. Oh! We have dessert too if you like.
Shamash: I think it's a funny idea and my schoolmates would think so too. But you can't just get things done with only treats, you know. Anyways, do any of you know about Babil?
MC: Sounds familiar. I think I know someone from there.

Ryouta: Oh right, Pazuzu!
Shirou: I heard that world approves of splitting things in two.
Shamash: Wow, you know that? I'm from there too. I tutored Gilgamesh. Have you heard of him?
Shirou: Wasn't he the most famous king from there?
Gilgamesh was the king who stood between man and god with a Very Good Friend. They did awesome things together, but then some other people disapproved and Gilgamesh's Very Good Friend was unalived.
Shamash: Generally, I actually would like to just motivate with the carrot, but sometimes...I need the stick.
MC: Is that why you work out? / Ah yes / How do you have so much energy!?
(B) Shamash: Oh, I'm glad you noticed.
(C) Shamash: Yes, I do have that. I also want to be able to make things happen.

Shamash: Oops, I dominated the conversation there. Your guys's turn.
Shamash: (stares)
Shamash: (Huh, no reaction to the name Gilgamesh? Do they have no memories then? I think I sense Marduk's enemy, but I Don't Know.)
Shamash asks about the gang's lives but only gets that MC has amnesia.
Shirou: Oh it's late. Do you need to go?
Shamash: ...oh, I do indeed. Thank you, I should go before my jaguar kouhai gives me crap about being late despite my rules knowledge.
MC: oof, straight shot logic / Ixbawhatshisname?
---
(C) Shamash: You know him? Wow.
---
Shamash: Okay, I should go. Thanks Ryouta. Kengo, keep going.
Ryouta: I'll let Chouji know you liked it!
Kengo: Next time let's just fight...
And so the gang partially walks Shamash out and waves him goodbye.

Later
Shamash: My emotion reading power didn't work on MC, and sometimes they felt like Marduk's enemy.
Shamash stops as some other thought takes over his head.
Shamash: Ow. Hey, can I ask you something?
Some mob looks over, obviously despairing in resentment.
Yellow: ...what? Piss off.
Shamash: Thanks for stopping. Can I touch you?
Yellow is shocked and suspicious. Shamash is used to this and doesn't react. Whatever's up seems like not the thing to trauma dump on strangers, but Shamash already feels like it's his business.
Yellow: Go hit someone else up for work because I got no money.
Shamash: No worries. We are not a hitman. We are doing this for ourselves, to avenge against the transgressors of the law. No mercy.
End of Episode part

Live A Hero The Star Ocean Cruise Train Episode 6 (Abridged)

Tabit: Save friends!
Yoshiori: Holy shit the guy with a different design from the soldier mobs is way stronger! But you can't beat ME!
MC: Yoshiori, charge up your super move! The mobs from behind are gonna attack!
VP Charge!
Yoshiori: Shoot the bullets, got it! Bodyguard Trick Shot!
Awesome bullet counter!
Yoshiori: Go!
Esperdica: Coffee smoke trick time, got it. Raizi!
Raizi: Sending VP! Digram, support!
Digram: Acknowledged.

Esperdica: Coffee fog bath!
Hey wait...
Tabit: Leader must save friends! Change "Nanoblast Metamorphosis"!
Tabit morphs his arm into a sword and slashes at Esperdica's magic coffee machine!
Esperdica: Okay wow that is strong!
Raizi: Digram, stop him!
Digram: ...acknowledged. Charging railgun...
That is a big shot Digram is charging up.
Tabit: No! Spare guards!
Digram: Last warning: surrender now. No obstructions to railways will be permitted. Agree, and I will stop att--!?
Tabit: ...you, stop? Believe. Mech life form, no lying.

Esperdica: He actually stopped!? Raizi, give me VP again to stop the mobs!
Esperdica's magic coffee machine charges again and blows out coffee smoke!
Green: C-c-ceasssing a-a-actionnn. L-l-l-leeaad-d-d-der, s-s-sorrrrryyyy (flump)
Tabit quits out and runs to the mobs.
MC: ...battle over. Everyone good?
The party quits out of hero mode too.
Esperdica: Yes, thank you MC.
Raizi: Let's go check them out, guys. Also we need mystery guy to tell us who he is.
Yoshiori: Yeah. Digram, you know him?
Digram: ...negative, in terms of direct relations. But I know of him. He is a nanomachine-made android.
Esperdica: Oh. So he's not like other androids. Well since he's not attacking anymore, we can just ask him.
Yoshiori: Time to question the zombie ghost dude then.

Tabit is kneeling and looks back at the party.
Tabit: Friends, powered down. Reboot possible. Good.
Yoshiori: Yeah, we managed to beat them down nonlethally. That was a pain in the ass, by the way.
Tabit: You, not destroying friends. Apologies.
Tabit stands up.
Tabit: Code name Tabit. Former special forces unit captain. Friend of guards. Currently Stella Campanella train worker. Sorry again. (bows)
MC: sooo what's your deal / hmm, he's hot
(B) Tabit: Hot? Compliment? Thank you.
Yoshiori: He literally attacked us two minutes ago!

Raizi: We got questions. First, what space magic did you use to pop up earlier?
Tabit: Not space magic. Nanomachines. Split apart, recombine. Was rapid searching for friends. Train big.
Yoshiori: Oh, was that why people were yelling about zombie ghosts? It does look the part coming and going.
Raizi: Huh. Sounds legit. (looks at Tabit's body)
MC: Good thing he wasn't a ghost! / That was you...?
(A) Raizi: R-right. Zombie ghosts are dumb, right Yoshiori?
Yoshiori: Don't look at ME!

Esperdica: So Digram, what did you mean when you said you knew OF Tabit? He seems to know you.
Digram: Tronesion communication network. I've seen his ID in Tronesion's Space Discord channel but never talked to him before.
Tabit: DGR-X-6502852
Yoshiori: what
Digram: Providing clarification. I am 34th Generation Humanoid Anti-Monster Transforming Combat Mechanical Life Form DGR-X-6502852. Digram and Trans Saver are designations provided by my agency and company.
Raizi: Yeah I'll never remember all that.
Digram: Indeed. Common designation accepted for ease of communication.
Raizi: That's nice. Digram suits you.

Digram: Tronesion mech life forms including myself could use Tronesion's Space Discord network to identify and communicate with each other.
Tabit: ...network now destroyed, war damage. Special force unit never connected to network. Update option unavailable, but when onboarding of train job, detected Digram. Tronesion status check requested, but saving friends higher priority. Must fulfill order. (looks sadly at guards) Thought you all were attacking friends, attacked back.
Esperdica: Um, we were just trying to stop their rampage.
Tabit: Understood. But, similar events happen before. Strangers attempted capture after Monster fight. Special force unit called "villains," escaped with stealthy maneuvers.
MC: wait are you actually villains?

Tabit: (shakes head) Ex-special forces. Not hero or villain. War over, not anything now. Research results, Parallel Weapon controlled in current space territory. Cannot register with hero agency. Return to Tronesion prioritized, boarded train due to return possible.
Esperdica: (thinks) I think I understand your situation now. You aren't part of any hero agency right now, and you're trying to get back to Tronesion. You couldn't apply to any agencies when you boarded, and you prioritize safety. But why are the guards going rampant?
Tabit: (looks down) Old war damage from battle against other mech life forms. Shot with space robot rabies bullets.
MC: Oh...
Digram: (frowns)
Tabit: Normally, personal firewall security programs quarantine space robot rabies virus. Virus encrypted to prevent function interference, but virus has been evolving. Affect units take nonstardard actions.
MC: Huh. So why is it causing problems now?

Tabit: Cause unknown. Investigation needed. These friends contracted active virus from other friends. (looks away from guards)
Tabit: Active virus unstoppable. Security patch developed, application possible.
Yoshiori: So apply it?
Tabit: (shakes head) ...impossible due to jamming caused by virus rampage. Direct unit patching is possible, but infection spread risk present. Space Discord too dangerous to use, face to face communication required.
Esperdica: Is that why they attacked us?
Digram: Tabit is a newer model compared to soldier guards and myself. Security patch development is possible for him.
Raizi: So, patch all the bots and problem solved. Right?
Digram: Tabit, speech use difference of Space Japanglish detected. Is your speech processor damaged or infected?
Tabit: Negative. CPU resources running at loss due to section of nanobots to clear virus off friends. Virus check for this unit, clear.
MC: You can do that!?

Tabit: Nanomachine portion split for emergency patching. Infection risk high, so used portion to be disposed of.
Esperdica: Oh. Doesn't that make conversation harder?
Tabit: Communication issues not detected. Vocal component unnecessary for Space Discord, but necessary for jamming cases and communicating with organics. All other functions prioritized.
Raizi: Huh. I guess it's still good enough.
Tabit: Must save friends!
Tabit turns to leave.
MC: Wait, how about we do a temp contract?

Yoshiori: W-wait, you seriously want to temp contract a villain? I know it's weird of ME to bring this up, but these contracts are binding! The president will kick your ass if you don't talk to him first...
MC: I-I guess, but I can't leave him like this. Help me talk Huckle into this!
Yoshiori: ...ugh. Fine, I know how you are. But you're talking to him yourself, and if he says no, that's it. And promise you'll back off if I say it's too dangerous for you 'cause I'll be too ashamed to see everyone if you do get hurt. This isn't how someone with a bodyguard is supposed to act, geez.
MC: Thanks Yoshiori! / I knew you'd help!
(B) Yoshiori: Are you listening to me!? Dammit I should have seen this coming.

Tabit: Contract request? Requesting clarification: you asking to take command?
MC: Yeah! Let's do this so you aren't considered a villain, then we'll go save everyone!
Raizi: Well he'll be a great piece to the party with what he knows of the guards. Better to team up than split up, right?
Esperdica: I agree. You'll still need to contact your office, but having Tabit with us will be more efficient than having him run off blind.
Digram: No objections. Speed required to keep passengers and employees safe.
Tabit: ...everyone will help? Thank you! Contracting ready. Transfer of command acceptable for saving friends. You leader now!

Title Card: To Light Up the Night

The party is in the restaurant area where MC called up Huckle and explained the plan.
Yoshiori: You better appreciate how far off the branch we went for you. The president fell out of his chair when MC told him they wanted to contract a villain! Well, fair.
MC: Communication is important! I want to help people in trouble, and it's a surprise since he didn't know what's up.
Yoshiori: Well that's like you. They're worried, but they didn't stop you. Also Tabit's still a spec op captain, so he'll be a big help with us. (looks at Tabit)
Tabit: Query, Digram. According to after action reports, Tronesion had insufficient resources, suspended satellite communications and liason ships. Planetary landing also suspended, present conditions unknown.
Digram: ...sharing information. Yes, network base station was destroyed then. The war ended that day, and this unit's communication and delivery network was shut down.
Digram: (frown)
Digram: Currently, Mother is reconstructing the network and moving to Level 8 of social reconstruction phase.
Tabit: ...oh. Oath sworn upon war's end confirmation. No more hurting mech life forms, so admin privileges used to rewrite action code.

Flashback!
One night in some wasteland, a spec ops team is trying to phone home.
Tabit: Requesting response. Repeat, requesting response!
Error, radio address not found.
Tabit: Unable to connect to Mother Network for 50,689th time. Team meeting time. Scan for ambush...enemies retreating. 72 hours passed since extension, shut down operation. Unit to be disbanded...
Droids: Roger. Leader, after this...
Tabit: (frowns)
Tabit looks at the dogtag he's wearing. It's not his name on it.
Tabit: ...army gone. Proposal: implement universal nonaggression principle against mech life forms. Field captain to use temp admin privilege to rewrite code to add proposed action, but will add only to units that agree to it.
...
The soldiers agree.
Tabit: ...everyone, thank you! Implementing rewrite. New objective: return to Tronesion. Together, to peace.

Present
Tabit: New code, strong. No harming mech life forms and friends. No more fighting, just defense now.
MC: Aww, what nice friends...
Tabit: Must save friends.
Digram: (frown)
Digram fixes his shoulder cape. A whistle falls out.
Digram: Communication systems being stable and running on time symbolize peace. This unit believes that to be important so Tronesion's tragedy does not repeat. (picks whistle back up and pockets it)

Raizi: ...damn, must've been tough getting on when you were alone. But you still had friends to be there with you, and I wanna try learning how that felt for you guys. (glances at Esperdica)
Esperdica: Yes, the soldiers must be suffering from space robot rabies. We'll help as best we can, just like Raizi's thinking.
Raizi: Uh, why are you talking like you can read my mind?
Esperdica: Oh is that how it sounded? I'll keep better watch of my words. Anyways, MC how's that contract with Tabit coming along?
Beep beep!
MC: Conveniently done now! Let's do this, Tabit!
Tabit: Thank you everyone! Prioritizing assistance of friends. Proposal: search for others. More time consuming, but safer than direct linking.
Digram: Anomaly detection system raised to level three up to Car Three. Low priority events will be reported as well, but rapid alerts will come when som--
ALERT ALERT

Yoshiori: Well that was fast. Where are they?
Digram: Anomaly detected. Utensils fallen in restaurant area of Car Two. Anomaly detected. Passenger jumped into pool in sports area of Car Three. Anomaly detected. Passenger scraped knee in sports area of Car Three...
Yoshiori: Sounds like useless crap here!
Digram: ...filtering alerts for higher relevance.
Raizi: Guess that comes with having so many people...
Esperdica: Yes. Back to searching on foot then. If Tabit or Digram get more important alerts, we can go--
BWOOP BWOOP BWOOP
Yoshiori: Your filter isn't working, Digram.
Digram: Anomaly detected! Intruder alert in engine room of Car One! Soldier droid has entered without proper permit!
Party: !!

Yoshiori: Welp, sounds like we got a real problem now with an infected droid!
Esperdica: Yes. We'll have to stop him anyways even if he isn't infected.
Raizi: Let's go, team. Digram, which way?
Hey, guess what?
Tabit: W-what? Train, shaking!
Digram: !! Emergency alert. Anomaly detected in Stella Campanella train control system.
Raizi: WHAT
The train is speeding up!
Digram: ...Stella Campanella is drifting off set course. Please watch your footing. Significant delays possible.
Yoshiori: The hell is that soldier droid doing? We gotta stop him now!
MC: What's gonna happen to us?
Digram: ...collision with planet or space ship unlikely, but space train will continue drifting aroubd galaxy until control is restored.
Esperdica: Also we have no guarantees the other systems won't fail either, so we better get on that.
Digram: Agreed. This way please.

The party starts to head to the engine room when they see someone by the train connection panel!
Red: Un-un-un-unable to c-c-controool actioon...
Yoshiori: Dammit, they're here too!
Esperdica: Wait, isn't that the train connection panel? What are they doing?
Digram: Alert: please stop infected units quickly due to risk of train cars disconnecting. If disconnected, Car One and its passengers will be in much more difficult to save situation.
Tabit: Fighting to stop friends!
Raizi: Yeah, time to suit up people!
MC: Let's go, execute!
Click!
Yoshiori: As guard, I'm taking point! Back me up, people!
Digram: Understood. Rapid removal of obstructions, commence. Please brace for impact.
Esperdica: Coffee is the scent of peace. Let's stop them, Tabit.
Tabit: Protect! Commence pacification. MC, your orders!
BATTLE START