Akiba and Dragons Episode 4 Part 2 (Abridged)

Catoblepas's name means "to look downwards." His eyes have the power to draw eyes to him. Anyone he looks at stop moving as their attention goes to him. In his home world (wherever that is), he was shunned for that and everyone always told him to keep his eyes hidden. So he lived with his head down, face hidden, never looking anyone in the eyes. His heart was always heavy, his feet slow as if caught in swamp.
Then one day Catoblepas came to Tokyo and discovered cosplaying in Akihabara. Through that, he learned about the joy in becoming who you want to be and the fun in pretending to be a fictional self that isn't yourself. He threw himself into it before long. When in costume, he completely fell into character and forgot that he was himself. It was fun spending time with people with the same interests and understood, and he could go the deep end of addiction with it.

But when Catoblepas took the costume off, shadows filled his heart. He feared he was enjoying fiction more than reality. He worried that he was turning away from reality. He felt unsteady, like a dog with a broken collar or a balloon that slipped away...
Akiha Gongen: ...hi Catoblepas. You coming back from another cosplay event?
Catoblepas: A-Akiha Gongen? Uh, umm...y-yes.
Akiha: I just got out of fire fighting drills myself. Let's go home together!
That same grade classmate casually called out to him with a smile. Catoblepas looked away and stepped back. Catoblepas thought of Akiha as a normie, someone with a firm foothold in reality. And then Akiha straightforwardly says:
Akiha: Man, otakus are so passionate! That's what I feel when I look at you, Catoblepas. Your outfits are great, and I bet what you wore today was too!
Every time Akiha sees Catoblepas, he'd shower him in genuine compliments about his hobby while looking straight at him.
Catoblepas: N-no, not really...
Catoblepas always felt embarrassed whenever he heard those words. But...
Catoblepas: B-but...still, t-thank you very much.
This time spent together felt nice. A sense of stability, a sense of disparate feelings mixing together in a strange way. But Catoblepas still can't express it in words...

Present
Enigma: So is the problem here the interoperability of fiction and reality.
Turing: Mostly, love. You always get straight to the point, don't you? So not human...but that fits my tastes so well.
Enigma: Interpreting as compliment, Master.
Turing: Without reality, fiction cannot exist. But without fiction, reality cannot expand. Therefore humans see the future in the Metaverse, but sometimes fiction and reality do not mix well... That's why we need something to bridge the gap between the two! That's why I had the Metaverse technology invested in.
Enigma: ...
Turing: Reality influences fiction, fiction further influences reality. Humans create an AI as good as humans, and AIs push humans up above AI.
Enigma: ...that is also my wish. The point of my existence is to compensate for mankind's incompetence.
Turing: You phrase things so rudely but you actually like people. That's the opposite of me! But I believe that cycle will be the optimal way to bring us to the singularity. It's a way better approach than Having a God Create the World and Arbitrarily Leading Humanity. I want to be something Not Human, but I don't think someone else leading me would be correct. My technology is a long way off from perfection though, which is why this experiment is worthwhile. But experiments always have uncertain things and--oh, something's happening.
Screaming in the distance.

Elsewhere in the Metaverse
Catoblepas is running while carrying canned juice.
Attendees: Oh my god he's hot! Is he an actor or model?
Pro Agents: PLEBS! That's Catoble, a new rising star in the cosplay world! And he's cosplaying as that new show Rescue Double! When his photos went up they started trending!
Catoblepas doesn't notice any of the attention being put on him.
Yellow Trooper: HNNNGH! (stares angrily)
Yellow: Character overlaaaap!
Yellow also picked the same subject Catoblepas was doing for his term project. He made a sand sculpture from a TV show and is dressed as another character from it, but he was only working on it alone instead of with others since no one else he could ask could make it.
Yellow: I need differentiation!
Yellow would take anything that would amaze the attendees, but he drew a blank. Now all that frenetic energy is going to his head.
Yellow: What do other people do in this situation?
No one is around to give him an answer, so Yellow thinks back to a late night livestream...
Tindalos: Hey guys, it's ya cyber boyfriend! If you're worried, you oughta do what your heart tells you! You can't let yourself be held back by common sense in Gensokyo Tokyo, right!?

Present
Yellow: Oh my god he's right! Look out world, I'm gonna bring a huge surprise! Lifeguards can't just sit there and pose and look hot! I'm gonna swim across that ocean because that'll be True Art! YEEEAAAAHH! (jumps into the fictional ocean)
Girl A: Oh no somebody jumped into the water!
Boy B: Yeah it's not real! And is he DROWNING!?
Vapula: How does anyone vapull that off!?
Catoblepas: B-but Enigma said there's still many parts of this technology with undetermined effects!
If someone believes they drowned in this blend of fiction and reality, maybe they really WILL drown.
Yellow: Help! Glug
Vapula: Hey he's a classmate! We have to help! ...no wait, Catoblepas!
Catoblepas also runs in to the ocean.

Vapula: Yeeeah, vaput your back into it Catoblepas! ...wait, can he swim?
Sand Dragon: (confused chirp)
Catoblepas: AGHBRGLGR
Yep. Still sucks at exercise. He can think of himself as a lifeguard, but everyone else knows he's cosplaying.
Vapula: OH NO NOW WE HAVE TWO PEOPLE WE NEED TO VAPULL OUT OF THE WATER
Akiha Gongen: You guys I am here to help! Two people drowning in the water? I see one of our schoolmates and...Catoblepas!?
MC: Oh no! / Calm down Vapula! / We have to help!
Akiha: Two victims! We need to hurry! (turns to MC)
MC: I was taught by a lifeguard at Toyosu / A police teacher taught me old swim techs / My class's assistant teacher drilled me
---
(A) Akiha: Oh wow, you know him? He taught me how to help in ocean emergencies too. Can you get one of them?
(B) Akiha: Well the old ways can be easier to do for water rescues. But this is for real, so be careful you don't lock up!
(C) Akiha: You had a teacher show you how to swim upstream through rapids? Hardcore...but reassuring! But this situation is different, so I'll give you instructions to follow.
---
Akiha hands MC a life vest and flotation ring, eyes the distance needed to go out, then gives MC a quick rundown on rescuing people.
Akiha: Be sure to approach their back, or else they'll drag you down if they grab onto you. If you can grab the back of their neck area, put the vest on them and pull them to shore. Relax your arms and legs to float and conserve energy.
MC: Okay!
Akiha: Let's go!
BATTLE(?) START (more happens after)

At the bottom of Eden is the sky of Gehenna. Long ago, the people of Gehenna looked up and saw a falling shooting star. The books wrote down the legend of the top that connects these two worlds.
At his back was the sign of Eden's greatest angel, the twelve wings also known as the Gravity Cutter. That angel discarded the wings that were a part of himself and passed them off to another. And then he turned into a fiery shooting star jumping from the top of Eden to the depths of Gehenna. Every book called him the Fallen Angel of Flame, the dragon serpent of the paradise Eden.
Vapula wondered why did that angel discarded a part of himself. Or rather, what did he discard them for? Why fall from the top of Eden to the hell of Gehenna? What did he learn in Eden that would drive him to discard his wings? Vapula read from a book that the Serpent of Eden knew the significance of the fruits of the Tree of Knowledge. One book said that the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge was for understanding the hierarchy of good and evil. Some other book said the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge was meant to give Names to all things in nature...

Present
Akiha Gongen: Dammit these waters are rough! Grab my hand!
Akiha grabs Yellow, but...
Akiha: BGRL!?
Gravity starts dragging him down.
MC: Oh no, Akiha!
Sand Dragon: SCREEE (somehow here to channel Solomon!)
Akiha: Hey I got lighter for some reason! Why? Actually never mind! Catoblepas, grab my other hand--
Catoblepas: Akiha Gongen! (cough)
Akiha and Catoblepas are just out of reach from each other. Maybe it's because they hesitated to touch and meet each other's eyes up to this point.
MC: (grab both Akiha and Catoblepas's hands to connect them)
Akiha: MC!? 

Later
Akiha Gongen: You guys are okay now, we made it to shore. Calm down and take a deep breath...
Akiha tends to Catoblepas and Yellow.
Yellow: (coughing and sputtering because apparently even robots need to breathe) Dammit...this sucks.
Catoblepas: T-thank you very much. (cough) My leg cramped on the way over... I was so stupid.
Yellow: Sorry for losing my cool. I'm calm now. I was worried about my display the whole time...
Catoblepas: Excuse me, are you cosplaying the same thing I am? Would you like to collab with me?
Yellow: what
Catoblepas: If we like the same things...maybe it would be even more fun if we did them together.
Yellow: Oh...I...yeah, I wanna collab with you.

Later again
Yellow has left. Akiha Gongen squats to talk to Catoblepas.
Akiha: ...you know what I'm going to say, right?
Catoblepas: Yes...I'm really sorry. I got caught up and forgot about what I could do...
Akiha: Well it's also my fault I wasn't there at first. Still, you could've called me. Why'd you do that?
Catoblepas: ...
Akiha: I know you stay away from everyone...so you can't trust in me either?
Catoblepas: N-no, it's not that. But...
MC: You want to be better friends? / You want to be depended on more?
Akiha and Catoblepas: !?

Akiha Gongen: ...really, Catoblepas?
Catoblepas: Ever since I put on this costume, I've been thinking. If I were your buddy, then I want to someone worth relying on.
Akiha: O-oh...umm...
Catoblepas: And then when that accident just happened, it was all I could think of...I was sure you would go help him without thinking about it, so my body did too.
MC: You really became your character, huh? You totally understood Akiha Gongen. Holy crap!
Vapula: (stares in shock)
Akiha: I'm glad you feel that way, but you know you shouldn't be reckless, right?
Catoblepas: Y-yes...sorry. Thank you too, MC.
Akiha: ...you don't have to force yourself to change though. I think you're fine as you are.
Catoblepas: ...huh?
Akiha: ANYWAYS! (casually piggybacks Catoblepas)

Catoblepas: W-what!? I'm fine, I can walk!
Akiha Gongen: As your punishment for recklessness, you're gonna let me carry you to the nurse's office. Got that?
Catoblepas: ...o-okay. I'm sorry...
Sand Dragon: Bark bark!
Vapula: Aww, you want vapraise? Good boy!
MC: Yeah, good boy. I really wanna name you. Hey Vapula, I...wait what?
Vapula: (frown)
MC: Vapula, why are you spacing out?
Vapula: ...sometimes the other Creators say they get a vapeeling of falling when they make something. I've had my moments too from concentrating so hard on my work, but I've never felt like Catoblepas did in chasing after something I didn't have. I mean, I can do anything if I read a book. I can see the end coming and know everything.

Vapula thinks "doesn't that mean there's nothing past it?" When something ends, there's nothing to pick up on it after. Aren't those your limits you feel, he thinks.
Vapula: Do I...really have something like that? What do you think?
MC: Yep / Nope / Let's look together
---
(A) Vapula: Really!? Where!? ...oh, right. That's your thing. There's no guarantee I can see it even if I look at it. But if you say so, I vaputd my hopes up a bit. Maybe I can find it if I look.
(B) Vapula: Really? But I feel like there's a difference between you and me. I feel like...you have a vapiece that I want.
(C) Vapula: You shouldn't make vapromises without thinking about it. Wait, you'll still do it? Umm, wow... But I feel like it might work out!
---
Vapula: ...my chest feels funny. Is this what people mean by feels!?
PA System: Announcing a special program! After breaktime, there will--
Vapula: Break time! Let's go help Tindalos afterwards!

Catoblepas (narrating): I always felt from watching at a distance that my normal self wasn't a Creator. I was different from everyone else who was always a Creator. But it's because of that I felt closer to you. I couldn't let anyone see me in the eye, and you couldn't touch anyone. I always wanted to be better friends with you. But I could never put it into words...
Somewhere in the Metaverse
Catoblepas: ...oh no! Did I fall asleep!?
Akiha Gongen: Don't worry, it was only for a little bit.
Catoblepas: Oh no, that's so embarrassing...I can't believe I fell asleep on your back...
Akiha: ...you've done stuff for me in the past first, so this isn't a big deal.
Catoblepas: ...I did?
Akiha smiled. They never really ever gelled, but...

Akiha Gongen: Hey, if we're gonna bring someone with us, why not bring MC along? Then...maybe things will get better.
Catoblepas: Oh...that's a great idea! Let's do it!
Akiha smiled as he adjusted Catoblepas's weight on his back. He must be smiling too as Akiha felt his arms wrap around him. There's no label for their relationship yet, but they'll probably have one after the season passes.
PA System: Announcing a special program! After breaktime, there will--
Akiha: You know what, I'm hungry. Maybe I'll buy lunch after we get to the nurse's office.
Catoblepas: How about we go buy something right now?
Akiha: Okay! New stop, the school store!
Catoblepas: No wait, please let me down now!
Akiha: It's okay, I'm strong enough to carry you!
Catoblepas: But this is embarrassing! Akiha Gongen are you listening to me!?
And so Akiha walks along carrying the mostly better Catoblepas while remembering how it felt to walk home together with him in the past.
End of Episode

Akiba and Dragons Episode 4 Part 1 (Abridged)

There was once an age of happiness, and there was once a person who gave Akiha Gongen (and other people of the land who don't matter for this exposition) the power and class of fire prevention. This person was Onamuji no Mikoto, the person who stood at the top of the world's hierarchy and was stronger than anyone else. He was also a parental figure for Akiha Gongen, and the time he spent with him is why Akiha thinks he has such high self-esteem. But everything ends. Reigns pass, and new ages begin. Akiha has no idea what the next ruler after Onamuji is like somehow, but all he knows is that Things End. It's all in the past to him, but that memory is one of the things that make him who he is now.
Once Akiha Gongen came to Tokyo, he learned of Akihabara's history. The land was once burned to the ground, the gongen incarnation was deified there, and the land was named after him. Then the city had its varied history as a city of greengrocers, a city of electronics, a city of nerds and creators, and a city of sightseeing and food among other things. Each age that passes gives way to a new one, and Akiha wanted to learn even more of this city.
Akiha Gongen attends Akihabara Academy as a traditional crafting student since he wanted to be better friends with the otakus who come here. The otaku don't seem to know how to socialize with him though. He doesn't understand their lingo, which meant he couldn't communicate himself very well. Also his power would put out the fires of passion of these creators, and as a mental effect it wouldn't be reverted by app magic. So he thinks of course they'd avoid him. But then...

Flashback
Catoblepas: Akiha Gongen? Why are you still here at school so late? Umm...want to go home together with me?
Catoblepas is in the same grade as Akiha and never looks anyone in the eye. He's talking to Akiha some distance away. Normally he never approaches anyone because he has a Mystic Eye power able to charm anyone who looks at him. Also he was always told by someone to never meet other people's eyes, so he keeps EVERYONE at arm's length.
Catoblepas: U-umm, is something wrong Akiha Gongen?
Akiha couldn't put it into words but he thought that everyone is different, not that there are good otaku and bad otaku. And there are people like himself who could be saved. He loved this city. He always knew these days would one day end, which is why he wants to protect the city. He wants to watch over its history.
Akiha: Baatar-senpai, let's go train already!

Present
Vapula: Okay we're here, Akiha Gongen! Vapery good job on the modeling and security!
Akiha Gongen: Hi Vapula, I've been waiting! You're with MC?
Sand Dragon: Bark!
The beach has turned into a special gallery and now has many pieces up. Akiha looks like one of them when he was standing as a model.
MC: Hi Akiha Gongen! / Mmm, so beefy... / (big hug!)
(A) Akiha: I heard you did a lot of work while I was called to patrol somewhere else! Things came out alright thanks to you all, so I should focus harder as a guard.
(B) Akiha: Thanks, I work out through my fire drill training. Baatar-senpai complimented on me when I showed him, but he was half joking and whistling. I don't think I can trust what he says much, but if you think it's good I guess his judgment isn't all bad.
(C) Akiha: OH MY GOD WHAT!? Oh, I don't hate it or anything. I was just surprised. You aren't worried about touching me even though you're an otaku? ...oh, no...? Hehe, thanks MC. (hugs back)

MC: Oh that reminds me, you said you were waiting for us? Vapula, are you doing something?
Vapula: Good catch! Akiha Gongen and I are doing a co-vapuroduction with this one company.
Catoblepas: (runs up) Wheeeze... s-sorry to keep you waiting. I messed up with the measurements and finally finished altering it. People always told me I was slow...
MC: Hi Catoblepas / Oh, you're dressed as a lifeguard? / HOT
---
(BC) Catoblepas: Oh, thank you. Yes, this costume is cool! Thank you for your compliment on it! ...huh? That wasn't what you were referring to?
---
Vapula: MC, did you see the show they vaput on Nichi Asa this year? The one called Yes! Rescue Spirit Rescue Double. It's a kid hero buddy show where kids transform into lifeguards vaprotect the vapeace of the ocean! Today I had Catoblepas and Akiha dress up in costume as characters from that show while I go vaproduce a diorama with accompanying minor characters.
Catoblepas: Are you interested, MC? Would you like to match costumes with us!?
Akiha: Wow Catoblepas you really change personalities when people talk about cosplaying.
Catoblepas: R-really? ...when I cosplay, I really think I've become someone else... And since I'm someone else, I start thinking it's okay to look people in the eye.

MC: Say, does your Mystic Eye still work even if the app isn't on? Then again Akiha Gongen's power still works too.
Catoblepas: ...huh, I never thought about it before.
Vapula: It'll work if you vabelieve it will...if it's the same as the magic I know about.
Catoblepas: What?
Vapula: I read the Key of Solomon and related vabooks before. It also reminds me of Agrippa's On the Futility of...what was the title?
MC: Solo...what? Reminds me of Solomon. I'm sure it's unrelated.
Vapula: Well it says the vabasis of magic is mutual sympathy, where it's important to for you to vabelieve and for whoever you're with to vabelieve. Something can be impossible, but if you and someone else vabelieve it wholeheartedly, it will surpass reality. It's how Santa could fly in the pass without the app. Vabased on what the vabook said, the app is just supporting the sympathy of that faith. ANYWAYS, theoretically if Catoblepas vabelieves he really becomes someone else when he cosplay, then his Mystic Eye won't do anything regardless of what the app is doing!
Catoblepas: ...really? Well if I can do it, then...
Vapula: Yeah, IF! This normally wouldn't work unless you're a vapulunatic!
MC: Really? Why?

Vapula: For vabetter or worse, your power is your identity. Being fast or smart would be easy examples, right? Stuff like that would be things that how you vaput yourself together up to that point. Cutting it off would be the same as cutting off a vapiece of yourself, your past. Akiha Gongen must have some special memories tied to his power. Could he really throw them away?
Akiha: ...no. Someone important gave it to me.
Vapula: Yeah that's what makes Catoblepas out there, even if cosplay is a temp thing. No vaperson in this world could do that intentionally!
MC: Not everyone could do it? No matter what?
Vapula: Well I do know one way if it's just for one vaperson. In the Valley of Hinnom in Gehenna there's--!!
There was once an Angel of Fire who stood at the top of the heavenly Eden. He was the original dragon serpent who discarded his twelve supreme wings and fell to the deepest part of Gehenna. He burned brighter than anything and fell like a shooting star. He was--
Vapula: ...huh? (looks back and forth between MC and the sand dragon)
Sand Dragon: Chirp?
Vapula: N-nah, it's vaprobably my imagination! You just happen to look alike, totally!
Catoblepas: Um, shouldn't we start posing together soon?
Vapula: O-oh! Right! We should get started then. You vaprepared to go?

Later
Akiha Gongen: Okay, time to pose again?
Akiha starts doing various poses. Vapula takes phone pictures. It starts off looking like gravure shots, but Vapula's directing changes things.
Vapula: Raise your right arm! Vapull your left knee up to your chest...okay! Stop so I can see your legs!
Akiha: Standing like this is hard... do I really need to do this?
Vapula: Last check! Good! Just photoshopped you into the background vapiece I had done earlier!
Akiha: This is so different than modeling for art class.
Vapula: Art class focuses on showing perspective via vaplanar composition. It's a bit different with dioramas.
Akiha: ...so can I pose like this?
Catoblepas: Wow, nice cosplay and smile Akiha Gongen! Vapula's doing great as a specialist...
MC: He seems to be having fun / Cosplaying must be nice... / Maybe I should work out too...
(A) Akiha: Aww, I'm happy to help you otakus out! I'm a traditional crafting student focused on bladesmithing, so I don't work together with anyone else much. So I have to do my best when these opportunities come up.
(B) Akiha: I'll do it with you, MC! Tell me which one you like next time and we can cosplay in your room!
(C) Akiha: Working out is good! It can help in a pinch and maybe help other people. Some otakus move so little they get chronic fatigue. How about I teach you some easy to do stretches?

Vapula: Vaput your arms higher! No, the other way!
Akiha Gongen: ...that reminds me. You don't seem worried about getting close to me, Vapula.
Vapula: Oh, right...
Akiha: You never thought about it!? ...but why? Feels like it's for a different reason than Catoblepas but I can't put it into words.
Vapula: Well...? (stops like he has to think about it)
MC: Vapula?
Vapula: ...maybe it's because I think of it the same way with my golems. They'll vapu-nish as soon as I'm done with them anyway, and stuff.
Still thinking it over.
Vapula: I have passion for doing it, but...I think I never cared because it'll be gone when it's gone.
Akiha: ...Vapula?
Vapula: ...was I wrong? Maybe those are my limits...

Akiha Gongen: Vapula? Sorry, I know you're in the middle of thinking about stuff, but I'm real glad there's other people who aren't bothered to be around me.
Vapula: ...
Akiha: We should take a break. MC and I will go get drinks.
Sand Dragon: Bark bark!
Akiha: Oh the sand dragon is posing! I think he wants to switch places with me?
MC: Yeah he seems to want to help. He can stay to assist, the visitors seem to like him.
Catoblepas: Oh, I'll come too then.
Akiha: Okay, be back soon! It's all on you now, dragon!
Sand Dragon: (excited cheep)

Later
Akiha Gongen: You know, you're really ripped and look good in anything for a guy who sucks with exercising.
Catoblepas: Y-yes, I am... I failed to jump over the vaulting box at all the other day in gym class. But, thank...you. I'm glad since my body is important for cosplaying.
MC: You two sure get along for people who don't seem to have much in common. I bet Akiha Gongen talked first?
Catoblepas: Huh? ...oh, yes. It was a little after I enrolled in school. I wasn't used to him at first, but we got through it later. I'd like to be more like him that way. I always overthink and have a hard time reaching out.
Akiha: ...so what do you guys want to drink? I'll pay this time, so you guys can do it next time!
Catoblepas: I-it's okay, I brought change and--
Akiha: Nah, I'm saying I want to come together again later...hmm, I really have a hard time saying how I feel.

PA System: Attention please! The special Akihabara exhibition will begin shortly. Performing students, please go to your designated areas. Repeat...
Catoblepas: I'll head back first and hand out the juice. Um, MC? If you'd like, later on--
MC: I'll come see. I'll take pictures!
Akiha Gongen: I'll do my best too. I hope it'll come out good.
Catoblepas: Y-yes, let's do our best!
Catoblepas runs off. Akiha sighs.
Akiha: ...even something casual would be fine to the people being reached out to.
MC: wait what? Is something wrong?
Akiha: Nah, it's no big deal. It's just...he tried reaching out to me once and--
Suddenly bell ringing!
Akiha: Oh no, something happened!
MC: Let's check it out! (grabs Akiha's hand and runs)
Akiha is surprised at first, but he smiles a second after and runs with MC...
End of Episode half

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

One morning at Parallel Flight
Akashi: ...Mokdai, why are we here? We weren't scheduled to come in or anything.
Mokdai: The director asked me to bring you guys here, but he didn't say why. MC, do you know?
MC: Nope.
Sui: So it's not business-related? But it has to do with us at least. ...maybe I made a mistake at the last sales job.
Mokdai: U-uh, maybe I messed up at that business trip the other day...
Akashi: I...froze up at a hero show when I saw a camera pointed at me...
MC: Oh man I can think of possibilities too...i-it'll be okay!
...
Huckle's voice comes from the office meeting room.
Huckle: Okay, we're ready. Mokdai, can you bring everyone over if you're all there?
Mokdai: O-okay!
Everyone heads over, nervous.

Mokdai: O-okay, I'm opening the door now--
Huckle, Ryekie, and Crowne: Happy second year of joining, everybody!
MC: WHAT
There's cake and hors d'oeuvres on the table. Team Rookie is surprised.
Crowne: Heh, nice look. All that work was worth it.
Akashi: Uhh...second year of joining...?
Huckle: Well Mokdai has been here slightly longer than that, but it's been about two years now since you, MC, and Sui joined up. We decided to throw a party to celebrate that.
Ryekie: It's thanks to you guys Parallel Flight is what it is today! We totally gotta celebrate that!
Ryekie pulls everyone forward.

Mokdai: ...whoa, a surprise celebration? That's so great!
Sui: It's been two years, huh? I wasn't a member back then...but now that I think about it, it feels kind of nostalgic.
Mokdai: Yeah, I wasn't a hero back then either... Time flies!
Crowne: And MC's gotten used to this work too. Time to call you a pro now?
MC: NO
Ryekie: Hey Huckle. Speech! Speech! Speech!
Huckle: Can we not...?
Ryekie: Too late, all eyes on you now!
Huckle: ...ahem. Just a little bit then. So I know how much work you all have put in for the agency. Thank you for everything, there's just one thing I want to say to you all.

Summer Hero Fest memory
Huckle: I'm sure you've met plenty of people up to this point
Orient City Assault memory
Huckle: I want you all to treasure the thoughts and feelings you've had then.
Melodic Meteor Christmas memory
Huckle: Those feelings will guide you as Heroes and Operators when you feel lost.
Chocolate Circus memory
Huckle: I'm sure more disasters will appear before us, now and later on.
Reminiscence of Ghostwoods memory
Huckle: Maybe you'll feel stuck at times...
Osaka Space Terrorist Racists (I'll get there soon) memory
Huckle: But all these experiences and encounters...
Lost Ancients of Blue memory
Huckle: Will be the light that brings you courage and lead you to the future.

Huckle: You'll meet more people from here on, so it'd be great if you remember today even a little bit. (nods to Team Rookie)
Crowne: Good speech! Rank S Hero speeches really do hit different!
Huckle: Stop making fun of me. Anyways, that's enough of that. The food's going to get cold, but there's still one more thing.
Crowne: Right, That Thing! The adjustments are perfect!
Crowne pulls out three little boxes and gives them to Huckle.
Huckle: I want to give you all our company badges and had them custom made.
Crowne: You can stick them on top of your hero suits. It's a special from me and Maculata! It won't fall off even in battle.
Huckle: You should probably put them on later and see how it feels. It's the same design as the emblem on MC's tie.

Mokdai: Wow, a custom made medal for our suits? It's so cool! Thanks! Now I'll match MC during battles!
Sui: Thank you very much. Is it okay for us to wear them though?
Akashi: Yeah I'm still officially just a part timer...
Ryekie: Sure it's fine!
Huckle: MC, I'll give them to you so you can put them on when you transform them.
MC: Okay. Tell me when you want to put them on, guys!
Huckle: Thanks again for risking your lives to save our peace. And MC, thank you for always supporting us heroes on the front line. I expect good work from you. Now, okay everyone! (claps)
Huckle: It's about time we toasted to the occasion!
Akashi: Yeees! I'm getting hungry here!
Mokdai: Me too!
Sui: Look, cake. MC, what are you getting first?
Crowne: So many good snacks! Huckle, can I have some beer--
Ryekie: CAN I HAVE KIWI!?
Huckle: ...Crowne, if I let you have alcohol I have to let Ryekie have kiwis too. But I'll consider it if you promise to look after Ryekie when he's drunk.
Crowne ...pass.
Huckle: Come on, there's still the toast to get to.
Ryekie: Oh right! Everyone have their glass!? Congratulations on making it to Year 2 again!
Everyone: CHEERS!
The End

Live A Hero Reminiscence of Ghostwoods Episode 8 (Abridged)

Flamier: Gorou, Lilac! I'll draw the enemy's attention, so you two attack!
Sui: I'll follow up and help you, Flamier!
Flamier: Thank you. Let's go!
Flamier super jump, away!
Flamier: I swore to these shoes I would do everything I wanted to do to its end! ...Grandfather, I haven't forgotten what you've taught me. Here I come!
Flamier's shoes start glowing and leaving a light trail as she moves.
BOOM
Monsters: Geeee...
Gorou: Whoa, Flamier combined light and explosions in one move!
The Monsters have been stunned by Flamier's light blast!
MC: The enemy's attentions is on Flamier! Sui, take them all out!

Sui: Got it! Master, I'm going to copy your techniques. I'll string you all up! Fairy Godmother's Dressmaker!
Sui sends out nearly invisible strings to bind any Monsters trying to escape.
Sui: Flamier! Burn it all!
Flamier: Thank you Sui! Now I can bomb them all at once! Fire Flower Bomber!
Giant explosion!
Lilac: Sui and Flamier did great! Now it's our turn!
Gorou: Right, I'll help out!
Gorou and Lilac run in while Sui and Flamier have drawn most of the aggro. The Big Monster notices and creates more minion ghosts in response.
Gorou: What, it thinks it'll protect itself with a mob meat shield? I'll put them all to sleep and set you up for Lilac! Let me play you the song of my people!
Gorou's sound waves spread across the Monsters, who react by attempting to run away.

MC: It's working Gorou! Now's your chance, Lilac!
Lilac: Thank you, Gorou!
Lilac superjumps at the Reaper type Monster. The Reaper readies its scythe to counterattack!
Lilac: How dare you use my brother's memories against me! I will cut you out by the root! Garden Shears X-Scissors!
Lilac beats the Monster to the punch and stabs its core!
Lilac: I will never let you go for that stunt!
Lilac stabs the shears in even harder!
Monster: L-L-LOVELYYYYY (poofs)

Sui: Look! The ghost Monsters are disappearing too.
Flamier: We did it! Lilac destroyed the main boss's core!
Gorou: ...yeah, looks like Lilac moved on too.
Lilac falls to his knees from pushing so hard on his weapon.
Lilac: (panting) It's over...now--
One Monster in the middle of disappearing comes at Lilac from behind.
MC: Lilac, look out!
Lilac: Oh no!
MC being the closest runs in without thinking. Since Lilac can't move, MC uses the toy sword and swings at the Monster. Surprisingly, it knocks it back really hard.
MC: W-what!?
MC looks at the sword. It breaks, having finished its job.
Lilac: MC, are you okay!? You saved me, but that was so dangerous! Normal weapons don't work on Monsters!
MC: Sorry, I moved before thinking... and actually why did the sword work?
Lilac: ...no, I'm sorry. I panicked in the surprise of it all, thank you... I can get up now. My apologizes for prompting you into recklessness. Please let me handle the rest.

Lilac stands in front of MC to face against the Monster. It looks like some pixellated shadow, but it still mimics Hashidoi.
Shadow: Li...la...c...
Lilac: I won't fall for that anymore, no matter how much you mimic my brother... he's always been inside me, ever since that day...
Lilac thinks back to that time he wasn't able to say 'sorry.' He whispers goodbye to those feelings, then grips his weapon.
Lilac: Hashidoi, I've gotten stronger. Would I be able to protect you now?
The instant Lilac finishes his question, the Monster fades to mist.
MC: ...good job. Finishing the operation.

With the Monsters gone, MC walks over to Lilac. The rest of the party runs over to regroup.
Gorou: MC! Is Lilac okay?
Lilac: Yes, I'm just a little tired but I'm alright.
Gorou: That's great then! Now we just need to find the kid and...hey, is that...?
Gorou sees the little boy fallen at the sacred tree's roots. Gorou runs over and picks him up. The boy is breathing.
Gorou: ...seems he's asleep. Did the Monster get him already earlier? Good thing we made it in time...
Sui: That's Celt's brother. I'm so glad we rescued him safe and sound.
Flamier: He doesn't have any serious injuries. We should still take him to the hospital once we get out of the forest though.
Gorou: Right. And we should let the family know since they'll be worried.
Lilac: Yes. Let's go back on the path we marked up.

Light starts pouring from the sky as clouds part.
MC: Oh my god guys, look behind us!
Lilac: Behind? What--!
The sacred tree blooms beautifully in the morning light, and pale petals scatter down gorgeously.
Lilac: T-that's Wehrmalt's symbol, the true form of the sacred tree!
Sui: It's so beautiful. How fantastic...
Flamier: I agree. I didn't know Wehrmalt had something like this.
Gorou: How pretty. I've never seen so flowers bloom like this before.
Everyone's attention is held by the breathtaking view.
Lilac: Hashidoi...
Only MC hears Lilac.
MC: ...um, Lilac...
MC holds out the broken sword.
MC: I'm sorry.

Lilac: MC... No, it's okay. You defended me.
Lilac takes the broken sword and looks at it with a gentle smile.
Lilac: I think your courage combined with my brother to protect me. This sword...my brother has helped me out so much.
Lilac looks to the sacred tree. The wind rustles its branches.
Lilac: ...Hashidoi loved flowers. He'd smell their scents and love them. He taught me so much about flowers.
Lilac holds the broken sword and his brother's memories close to himself.
Lilac: ...his eyesight and health were poor, but...I wanted to show him this view.
Lilac's voice wavers with unspoken feelings. A tear falls onto the sword.
Lilac: ...I'm sure...he would have loved it. And he would have been jealous that I could see such beauty.
Lilac quietly closes his eyes as he holds the unchangeable past close and thinks.
Lilac: ...I'm sorry Hashidoi. Thank you.

Title card: Reminiscence

Midday, MC and Sui call Huckle.
MC: And that's what happened. Sorry to worry you...
Huckle: ...I see. I understand the situation, thank you. You had a rough time on what was supposed to be paid vacation, huh. I'm glad you two made it out alright. Any injuries?
Sui: No, we're okay. Sorry for causing concern...
Huckle: Oh, no need to apologize. You got attacked by Monsters, and you called in earlier. I got worried when Mokdai filled me in, but you did well with so little information. He and Ryekie were worried too, spending all night researching Monsters.
Mokdai and Ryekie are snoring off to the side.
Sui: Oh... we just added more work onto your piles...
Huckle: If it helps save lives, it's all worth it. Everyone was doing their best. And actually we did find something similar to ghost type Monsters in the database.
MC: Similar? What's it like?

Huckle: The ghost types in their first stage are so small you can't see them by eye. When enough of them gather together they form something like fog or mist.
Sui: So the fog itself was a Monster...? Oh, so that's why MC sensed Monsters when the fog showed up.
Huckle: The small ones can't eat much like that, but the amnesia cases that happened this incident is likely from the Monsters eating a portion of people's memories. They grow that way until they become visible.
MC: So they gather together to become bigger. I remember something like that.
Sui: The evolved ones can physically interact with this world, right? We've seen some attack and destroy cities, but I guess mimic types aren't that rare...
MC: So I could hit it with the sword because it evolved? The mimics could be touched too.

Sui: And after we defeated the Reaper Type Monster, all the other ones started disappearing...does that mean the big one was manipulating the others?
Huckle: If nothing else, its core was sharing energy with the other Monsters.
Huckle sighs and thinks.
Huckle: The way these ones tried to pretend to be someone people knew and frighten them makes it look like they were trying to drive people to despair... it's an unnatural behavior. It's only a guess, but I sense some sort of artificial design to them.
Huckle: Well, we can leave it aside for now. You two should go relax since you hadn't really had the chance yet, right? We'll upload the intel and battle video to the Monster database and extend some paid days off for working on vacation.
MC: Oh my god, really? Yay! / I feel bad now...
(AB) Huckle: ...uh, yes?

Huckle: Haha, don't worry about it. You guys haven't really had any down time like you planned yet. I'm not THAT terrible a boss to make you work without having rested. And Maculata told me to tell Sui to accept what people give you. Go have fun, boss's orders.
Loud noises come from behind Huckle!
Akashi: Director! I just heard Sui and MC got into a Monster case at their vacation spot! Are they okay!? Mokdai wouldn't pick up when I called and...o-oh, you two seem fine...
Huckle: Haha, Akashi was really worried.
MC: Thanks for worrying about us / Sorry I couldn't call / So how was the test?
(A) Akashi: ...uh, I mean of course I'd be worried if I heard you guys ran into a Monster! At least call, dammit...
(B) Akashi: R-right...well at least you're okay... I'm tired from running all this way now...
(C) Akashi: T-test!? Uh, I did my best but...wait, we're not talking about that now! Ugh, I'm drained now... I'm glad you seem fine...

Akashi: (slumps shoulders) Well, I figured you'd be okay since Sui was with you.
Sui: Aww, is that what you think of me? Are you being shy?
Akashi: What!? NO! I'm just saying don't make me worry!
Huckle: Haha, well Akashi is right. Careful on your trip.
Click
Sui: We really worried everyone. Not like we could help it since it was an emergency... We should buy lots of souvenir presents as an apology.
MC: Good idea. What should we get?
MC and Sui walk to the flower festival area.
Sui: ...oh right, it's almost time to meet everyone else. We're supposed to meet at the dining area, so we should hurry since it's further away.
MC and Sui walk over when MC notices someone along the way.
MC: ...wasn't that Lilac? Where's he going?
Lilac is heading for the forest.
Sui: ...what's wrong?
MC: I just saw Lilac head for the forest. Could you go on ahead and let everyone else know?
Sui: There doesn't seem to be any more Monsters around, but still that's weird. Okay, I'll tell Gorou and Flamier when I see them. Call me if something happens.

Later
Lilac has gone to the sacred tree and has a bouquet in his hands.
Lilac: ...Hashidoi. You came here that day, didn't you?
Lilac inclines his head as he lays the bouquet at the sacred tree's roots. Small white flowers bloom on a branch with a sweet, gentle scent.
MC: ...here you are, Lilac.
Lilac ...MC? Why are you here? Weren't you going to go sightseeing?
MC: I saw you go into the forest and got worried...
Lilac: Ah, I see. I came to visit the sacred tree again. (looks at the tree)
Lilac: Wehrmalt's flower festival was originally based on this tree. It's a miracle flower that blooms only every 200 years, and on this day you tell people the things you normally can't say. That's the tradition I've heard of since I was a child. I didn't know the tree was real back then. Maybe that was when the Monster started eating it little by little.

A pale flower petal falls on Lilac's shoulder.
Lilac: ...maybe I shouldn't be telling you this since we only just met, but...would you listen to me?
MC nods.
Lilac: Have you ever given anyone flowers? My brother taught me about the simple but clean feelings about picking flowers for someone you care about and remembering someone when looking at flowers.
Lilac looks at the broken sword he has with him.
Lilac: This sword was stuck in the back of the sacred tree...it's so strange. The day before he disappeared, I threw this sword at him. I was young, but I yelled that the sword was worthless if he wouldn't go adventure with me. But the sword was here instead of at home...he tried to keep his promise.
Lilac gives the sword a hug before planting it into the ground.
MC: Lilac...

Lilac: I truly love flowers, and I'm sure my brother felt the same way. I loved them so much that I could handle them for work... but I was wrong. I understand that now that I've found this sword again.
Lilac looks at MC.
Lilac: What I really love is the smile of people who are happy when they see flowers. I want to watch over those smiles close to the flowers, just like the time I gave flowers to my brother. I won't be doing things in my brother's place because he couldn't do them, but because I want to... I won't ever forget my brother. I will go forward with no regrets, and I want to make people smile with these feelings. I've finally realized that doing so will make it feel like my brother is around. I've realized that that dream was born because Hashidoi was here. It's what he gave me.
Lilac holds his hand out to MC.
Lilac: You were an Operator with no hero power, and you saved me with that sword. Thank you very much. I can say it wasn't a mistake to trust that sword to you.
MC: No, thank you. It's because of you we defeated the Monster!
MC and Lilac look towards the tree.
MC: I'm sure those feelings will reach your brother.
Lilac: ...yes. Thank you for listening to me.

A gentle breeze blows, bringing petals down to the open space below. Short trees with white flowers bloom just beyond.
MC: ...those are the same flowers in your bouquet. What're they called?
Lilac: Those are...moria flowers! I can't believe so many are growing out here.
Lilac gently picks some flowers.
Lilac: In the language of flowers, morias mean "thank you for being besides me." My brother gave these to me once.
MC: Your brother was showing how he felt.
Lilac: ...MC.
Lilac looks at the flowers. It has a gentle scent.
Gorou: Heeey, Lilac! MC!
Flamier: Lilac! MC! Are you there?
Lilac: It's... Gorou and Flamier. Why are you here?

Sui: Oh, there you two are. These flowers always look so beautiful.
Flamier: Yes, and they smell so lovely. So calming.
Gorou: We were looking for you two. You should have asked us along if you were gonna watch the flowers! We just dealt with a Monster attack and there's a great view here. May as well drink to it!
Sui: You and your alcohol. But yes, I agree about the scenery.
Gorou: Aww, you do understand! I got nonalcoholic drinks for you too!
Flamier: Lilac, would you like to come with us to the flower festival?
Lilac: Me?
Gorou: Hell yeah! Didn't you say you were going to show me to a good pub?
Sui: I'm interested in some hot dogs and flower berry candy. MC, how about we buy some to share?
Flamier: There's also the fireworks show I'm helping with happening on the last day. Ooh, please come see it with me!
Lilac: Okay okay, I will...! Oh wait, I need to call management before that!
MC: Time's a-wastin'! / The party's just getting started / Fun time!
MC pushes Lilac forward, and the party follows along. A gentle breeze blows across the quiet clearing, scattering the petals lightly...
The End

Akiba and Dragons Episode 3 Part 2 (Abridged)

In the past there was a dream of endless lands and the lives of people who wanted to trailblaze them. These pioneers talked about a lumberjack named Paul Bunyan and his partner Babe.
One was a mountain of a man since birth with a huge ass axe. The other was a calf. Paul could strip a mountain of lumber in a night, make rivers with his tears, and drain lakes when he was thirsty. When cooking, he had a frying pan hundreds of meters long. That said, nobody needed to say aloud that he was Fiction to know that fact. He was just an embellished legend to amuse people in their harsh lives.
Babe Bunyan is folk lore, a type of urban legend and a being born from a tall tale. People know those things are Not Real, which means they don't rise to the levels of Myths that hold faith. Still Babe likes those kinds of stories. He loved the stories of his daddy who was bigger than any sea, mountain, or person.

Present
Babe Bunyan: Holy shit it's HUGE! I can't believe this is the inside of a school, Zhurong!
Zhurong: Yeah! Oh, more pictures to take!
MC: Cute swimsuit, Zhurong! / Nice swimsuit, Babe! / I like your swimsuits, guys
(A) Zhurong: Yay, thank you!
(B) Babe: Aww, shut up. I'mma a cowboy, my swimsuit's gotta be good too. Something wet doesn't fit parched lands...what? Don't talk shit, I can swim! I managed to swim 25 meters without a kickboard the other day!
(C) Zhurong: I was worried earlier since I didn't bring a swimsuit, but I was told some sort of computer magic called projection mapping would fix it for me!
Babe: Summer means swimsuits apparently, so dressing like this is fine once in a while.
Zhurong: Huh? But you whispered to me how excited you were about how grown up your swimsuit was and--
Babe: NO SHUT UP
Zhurong: Hehe, oops. MC, you shouldn't say anything either.

Zhurong: Anyways, WOW look at all the cool and pretty sand pieces!
Babe Bunyan: Whoa, awesome! I've seen a bunch of these out of video games and manga and OH MY GOD
The kids are excited.
Vapula: I just made a life size model as part of a collaboration with a company that holds intellectual vaproperty of this character. Sweet sponsorship!
Babe: Damn, it looks like it'll move any second!
The art is of characters who exist only in fiction, but they look real in Babe and Zhurong's eyes.
Vapula: Funny you should say that! I could show you how if it vapleases you.
Babe: Oh my god! Zhurong, maybe we should make something!
Zhurong: Umm...w-what do we do?

Itzamna: Haha, are you having trouble making up your minds, little ones?
Babe Bunyan: Hey I may be little but I'm gonna do just as good as anyone else! I drink my milk every day for when I get bigger. I'm Babe Bunyan, who's gonna be even bigger than my daddy and that's my friend Zhurong!
Zhurong: You're so cool, Babe! (takes pictures)
Itzamna: Ah, excuse me. Future big boy Babe Bunyan then. You two should use your hands to give form to something that doesn't exist in this world. Art and creation is an act of examining where you are heading into the world.
Vapula: (stares in amazement)
Itzamna: So, Babe Bunyan, what do you want to be? What is your guiding principle in life?
MC: Isn't this a bit much for elementary schoolers!?

Babe Bunyan: I'm gonna be bigger than my daddy someday!
Itzamna: You should put those feelings into the sand then. Vapula, can you show them how?
Vapula: Got it! Okay, feel free to vaplay around with the sand over here.
Babe: Mmm, freedom. We're in unexplored territory here!
Zhurong: What should I make? Maybe the best picture I've taken before? ...how would that work?
Turing: How about this then?
Turing starts piling up some sand and dumping shells onto it for decoration.
Zhurong: It's a mountain! Are the shells trees? And this hole is a cave?
Turing: Right, just use your imagination. Give it a go.
Zhurong: Okay! I'm gonna dig a bunch of holes and pour water in and...
Babe: Where will I be when I grow up...? Oh, I'll make my dream farm. That means I should make a house for me, Zhurong, and MC, a horse stable, and then...

Boy A: Hmm...maybe I'll make cars and roads.
Boy B: I'll make buildings, parks, and then a secret base...
The children start making things under the Creators' instructions. Simple and abstract things are made with many different meanings given to them.
Turing: I once read humanity grew further than anything else because they named things. They took all sorts of building materials, put them together, and added connections to them. They'd pick streets, people, or memorable places. To name something is to make connections and give something meaning, which is where things that surpass reality appear. That is the act of creating things that do not exist yet. You could say giving meaning to things is most basic and simple form of art.
MC: Turing, do you like art? Art and math don't seem that connected. / I wanna give meaning to my relationship with you.
(C) Turing: You what? Does that mean you want to create a relationship that wasn't there before? How provocative, you upstart...oops. Pardon me. If you're sure, then I may go along with it to some extent.

Itzamna: Art and math are just tools to make things that don't exist yet.
Turing: ...Itzamna.
Itzamna: If I have to say so, a knife is the same way. You could use it to live, or you could use it to harm and destroy. A paintbrush is like that for me, like figures are to Vapula. For you it would be math formulas. You can harm someone with a brush, or you can paint over the world.
Vapula: Hey MC! Vaplease come here for a minute! And bring the golem!
Turing: Duty calls. We have things handled here, so go on.
Sand Dragon: (excited barking)
The sand dragon quickly shuffles ahead. It doesn't look like a guard at all.
MC: Wait up! / Aww, it's like having a little brother. / Okay, let's go together.
Sand Dragon: (croons)

Vapula: There you guys are. Okay, vapulisten up. I'm gonna turn what everyone made into golems, but you need to pick just one thing and nothing too big! For reference, it'll come out like this!
Sand Dragon: cheep cheep
Kids: Wow!
Vapula: Okay, go vaplay around and let your imagination run wild!
Zhurong: Wow, you're awesome Vapula! Everyone's focusing so hard!
MC: You gonna be okay making so many golems?
Vapula: No vaproblemo! My power just replicates things exactly as I've read out of a book. It's the same as an engineer reading a book on robotics and using it to make a robot. I read the Sefer Yetzirah that has the recorded knowledge of golems. Form has meaning, and if it's something that moves, it'll naturally have the ability to move vaput inside it! Birds fly, fish swim, and people walk.

Kids: We're done!
Vapula: Okay everybody, line your creations up!
Vapula starts animating all the figures made, which then walk back to their creators to play with them.
Vapula: Hey wait, where's Babe? What did he vaput together...? Wait WHAT? What is that!? It's HUGE! Is it a farm diorama? Holy crap. I see Babe and Zhurong inside it. It's vaprobably okay to animate that?
Babe Bunyan: Nah, it's perfect as is.
Vapula: Uhh. Well I'm here and all. How about I animate some farm animals to vaput in it?
Babe: Heh. It's Fine since it doesn't move and Isn't Real.
Vapula: ...well okay then? My job here is done then, so I better get back to my vaproductions with the time I've got.
MC: Your what now? / The Tindalos Bros were awesome / I think I wanna make something too now...
(A) Vapula: My collab vaproduction with Turing and Tindalos! You're excited about that, right? Vapromise me you'll tell me what you think!
(B) Vapula: It was HARD getting the 3D model data from him and 3D vaprinting it. Then I had to paint bits of sand to move and vaperify every single mobile piece! My eyes were gonna fall out! But yeah I did it.
(C) Vapula: Really!? That vapleases me as a modeler! Come by the hobby shop I work at sometime. I'll teach you the ABCs of how fun vaplastic models are!

Vapula: No matter what I say, I like creating things...so it was a shock when my vaproducts went wild. (stares at the sand dragon)
Vapula: ...I like your dragon. It reminds me of something...a feeling I'm thankful for. I wanna vaput something together with you. Maybe...I'll figure something out.
MC: Oh, that reminds me. Do we need to worry about the dragon going out of control again?
Turing: Oh, no problems there as long as we stay in the sand box area. It's an isolated, closed off space where they won't move unless the creator gives them an intentional order.
Kid: Stop, that's my space!
Turing and Vapula: !!

Boy A: Stay out, this is our turf!
Boy B: No it's not! You keep pushing sand this way! And your sand golem keeps barging in over here!
Boy C: We're making a castle here, you guys are in the way!
Vapula: Nooo, stop!
Boy A: Get them, Robocop!
Boy B: Transformer, fight back!
The golems are fighting!
Turing: ...fascinating.
MC: Well they aren't going crazy like before, but this is turning crazy! / What the hell, Turing!?

Vapula: I said it before, but the golems won't stop until we do something about their vaprogramming after they're given orders! What's worse is that they've been given attack orders!
Zhurong gets caught between robot figures!
Zhurong: HELP
Babe: OH SHIT
Turing: Vapula, where are the golems' cores?
Vapula: I-I usually vaput them in the chest areas for humanoids and animals!
Turing: I'll give you guys directions on how to get them then and we can get this all done quickly. Okay, MC?
MC: You better get it right, Turing! / Babe, stop the golems! / Zhurong, blind them!
---
(A) Turing: Of course. I won't let you or any of the children get hurt.
(B) Babe: My time has come! I'll show you my rodeo lasso skills!
(C) Zhurong: O-okay, close your eyes everybody!
---
Zhurong: Stop fighting! Lovecraft Color Flash!
Turing: Now, MC! Aim for the cores!
BATTLE START (more happens later)

Babe Bunyan saw a dream of himself who wasn't himself. In Great Spirit, the one who stood atop of that self was the highest being of the world, Wakan Tanka. Babe's other self was once Wakan Tanka's servant, the white buffalo calf as everyone called him. Everyone in Great Spirit is a part of Wakan Tanka, and they return to him upon death. And Babe's self was given guidance to lead everyone in that world to Wakan Tanka...
Babe: NO THAT'S NOT ME!
Entertainers Theater or something
Christine: Oh that's just the memories of your body. You are just an urban legend folkloric fictional being, an actor of a tall tale who couldn't get faith. It's harsh, but I had to tell you since I have the same origins. You are the white buffalo calf from Great Spirit with the Babe Bunyan persona.
Babe: ...oh I get it now. So what?
Christine: (shook)
Babe (narrating): I'm Babe, a cowboy and the partner of that guy bigger than anyone else. Daddy was big because he was a tall tale, fiction. I'm proud of tall tales, and I believe the future starts from there. I always believed he was more awesome than reality.
Babe: Man, elementary school life has been rough lately. Still...
Babe tips his hat and smiles like Paul.
Babe (narrating): Even if I know an age will end, I...we will put on a brave face and live on.

Present
Babe Bunyan: Noble Phantasm! The Spirit of Manifest Destiny!
Babe puts his feet down on the sand with the horseshoe artifact he isn't drawn wearing to cause the waterways to overflow, recreating the legend of Paul and Babe creating a giant river. Making waterways isn't the true nature of his artifact's power though, as it's the shared faith of Babe and the white buffalo calf. That faith is the idea that every path has its end. Babe defines it as the end of the frontier. The white buffalo calf defines it as the Great Mystery all things one day reach. They both know that a boundless world is only fiction.
Babe: And that's exactly why I'll keep up talking big with my big mouth!
But Babe steps over that with his horseshoes because only fiction can surpass this reality. It is only within this wavering that urban legends can move freely. The waters swallow up the golems and gather them up in one place to tell them 'this is the end of the road for you.'
MC: The water flow stopped them. NOW!
SLASH
Babe: Yay, we did it!

MC: Awesome, Babe!
Babe Bunyan: Hell yeah, I'm Paul Bunyan's partner, baby! ...you ain't bad either. Maybe we can do great things together? I could call you Owner if you want!
Turing: Okay, nobody seems hurt. Good job everyone.
Babe: Hey, don't you guys have something to say after causing all that trouble?
Kids: W-we're sorry...
Babe: Good! Now let's play without causing another fight!
Vapula: I know it wasn't on vapurpose, but I'm still bummed...
Babe: Stop being a sadsack. You know that one Chinese story with the old man who lost his horse? It's like that! Blessings in disguise!
Vapula: A VAPRIMARY SCHOOL KID IS TRYING TO CHEER ME UP, MY LIFE IS OVER

Turing: Babe's right, you know. I discovered something from what just happened.
Vapula: What?
Turing: The golems the children made have this feeling that they aren't grounded.
MC: So they change natures based on their owner? What about the dragon?
Sand Dragon: gurgle chirp
Vapula: Having an elementary kid and one of my own creations trying to cheer me up is a vaprofessional humiliation.
Babe: Don't you guys have something else to be getting to?
Vapula: Oh no! But the class isn't over yet!
Babe: I'll handle it then. Hey everybody, let's play in the farm I made!
Kids: Okay!
Vapula:
Vapula: I GOT UPSTAGED!
End of Episode

Akiba and Dragons Episode 3 Part 1 (Abridged)

Flashback to Itzamna's art class!
Vapula: What do I want to convapley with my art? What?
A few days ago before the event, Kuniyoshi introduced Vapula to the class.
Vapula: Hey, I'm vapery particular about observing because it's important for True Art!
Vapula can recreate anything written down in a book.
Vapula: I studied a lot! Culture from Gehenna, the prevapulent trends in Tokyo, and a whole buncha other books! What am I supposed to do if that's still not enough!? Why do the figures I make go crazy when all I do is build them?
Itzamna does not answer directly. He instead talks about Vapula's progress and works. Like, all of them. Stuff he did on impulse, stuff he does with friends, and stuff he presents for projects. They all clearly do not lack for passion.
Vapula: So why do the figures I make keep going berserk!? ...what do you mean I have that backwards?

Itzamna says the question isn't "why were the figures made to go berserk," it's "why are they going berserk themselves?" What if the problem is that the vessel cannot hold what is being put into it? Works convey things, but what if the target to be conveyed to is lost? And so, Itzamna asks: what is Vapula making things for?
Vapula: For vapleasure. And because I wanna make even better things.
It's important to have fun while making things because that turns into motivation. Wanting to make something even better is indispensable. Continued pursuit of progress out of dissatisfaction of what is done now makes works shine.
Vapula: ...so I have to choose between vapleasure and true art?
Itzamna shook his head. Vapula is already full of passion and his works are already elaborate and beautiful. His skills are always looking for the next challenge. Creators make their imagination reality, even things that might have been only a passing daydream. That's why they should experience whatever they can, especially the things they want to make and the things they want to do.
Vapula: What does trying hard to make something even MEAN? I never seen anything my skills or imagination couldn't vaput together!
Itzamna says you can't choose if you have no choices, but you can't go anywhere if you pretend to not see your limits. What Vapula lacks is things he can't put into form himself, but if he learns what that is, he'll have something new to make.
Vapula: Whaaaat

Present
Vapula is just standing there in the Metaverse.
Sand Dragon: bark bark
Vapula: what are you trying to convapuley to me?
Vapula thinks more on what Itzamna said. No epiphanies yet. When he looks at MC and the Sand Dragon...
Sand Dragon: (concerned barking)
Vapula: Are you worried about me? I'm vapeeling fine, just tired from thinking too much. Hey wait, golems aren't allowed to have personalities and--
MC: What's wrong? / (hug from behind) / (lean over from behind to look at him)
(A) Vapula: AAH! Oh, it's you...
(B) Vapula: AAH it's too hot for this! Oh, MC? You never have a vapery good sense of boundaries.
(C) Vapula: AAH, I thought you were gonna bump into my face!

Vapula: You know, you and this sand dragon look vapery similar...wait, actually you remind me more of something...deep in Gehenna...
Vapula thinks of the fallen angel who was burdened with many wishes in the past.
Zhurong: You guys! Isn't the art contest going to start soon?
Vapula: Whoa! ...oh right, you said you were gonna covaper the event and take pictures. The school asked me to show you around. Sorry, head's empty like a vaplastic bin or something today.
MC: Wow, Zhurong! Are you going to take pictures of the sand art exhibit?
Zhurong: Yay, I'm gonna take tons of pictures!
Vapula: I saw your vaportfolio earlier. You'll be great.
Zhurong: Yay, thank you! Oh yeah, I wanna take pictures of you make a golem thingy! And MC and the dragon too. Front page headline!
Sand Dragon: (excited chirping)
Vapula: Okay! The children's sand box corner right? Vaplease leave it to me, I'll be there in half an hour.
Zhurong: Okay. I'll go ahead since Babe is waiting.

Vapula waves before entering a reminder on his phone.
Vapula: So before I help Zhurong's newspaper thing, there's helping the teachers and Tindalos's vapideo stuff... Dang that's a lot of stuff going on. Am I gonna get a vabrilliant stroke of insight on feels like this?
MC: Hey, Vapula / Can I help too? / We're here too
---
(A) Vapula: It's fine because I do it because I like it! Vaputting works together is fun and distracts me from how tired I am, so once I'm done vapass out like a light and end up late for a few days. I try to be careful but it keeps happening.
(B) Vapula: Oh vaplease, you're helping a lot already. I'm glad you're here with me though. My exhibition is still on, and I can't keep up with Zhurong and Babe by myself. Counting on you today, MC!
(C) Vapula: ...oh yeah, the golem you made hasn't vapeered into crazy again since before. If it were me I'd already have put the met back in emeth. I wonder what's different?
---
Vapula: Oh right we gotta go now!
Vapula, MC, and the dragon run off to the next event thing going on while someone watches them on a monitor.

Later
Turing: How's my new swimsuit? Just as brilliant as that chap Tindalos's Bros, yeah?
Enigma: ...hmm, it is very fitting.
Turing: Speaking of the Tindalos Bros, how are they? It looks like the system failsafe is under fire.
Enigma: The cause has been identified moments ago and the software has been updated.
Enigma responds robotically. Turing takes no notice.
Turing: Oh you're always like that when you and Tindalos are together. Have you noticed you're getting more human?
Enigma: ...I only follow my given orders and assist the master I serve.
Enigma is an information lifeform that exists only to protect his master's secrets. He was born from internet cyphers and PROBABLY spontaneously developed a self. Turing deciphered him and made him his bitch, then dressed him to his tastes. Turing is researching the creation of an AI art creator, hoping to create a creator's singularity. Create! And Enigma is helping Turing with that at this event too.

Enigma: ...I plan to always abide by my functions and act objectively with my inputs.
Enigma's voice has a very very slight pitch to it only Turing would notice.
Turing: Hmm. Your given proposition is to be a System that creates to fulfill the desires a person inputs to you. The Tindalos Bros were made to be his dream and your opposite, deliberately inviting mixed receptions. Correct?
Enigma: ...under normal circumstances, yes. But this time I have another task beyond that. I am prioritizing the management of this event.
Turing: How rational. Like me. Still, you made a suggestion based on a denial rather than an alternative. A never before seen chemical reaction...I'm jealous. I wish a genius who could stand as an equal to me like Tindalos is for you would show up one day.
Enigma: ...I have another suggestion regarding the chaos factor Tindalos. He has already deviated from early stage assumptions for this project and liable to damage my thesis.
Turing: Things are fine as is. No corrections or modifications to your orders needed. Keep all records...actually, all memories of parameters you experience.

Enigma: Why, Master? It is possible my abilities may be lower--
Turing: Because That Thing is important as you don't seem to have realized. This event is going to be interesting! I'm excited at least. Maybe I'll find what I'm looking for between the event beach, your parameters, and the external variables gathering in the venue.
Enigma: ...I do not comprehend, but my orders are absolute. I will prioritize solving the thesis you gave me and treat these variables equally.
Turing: That'd be nice. Time to meet MC and the others! Creators have a lot to learn in reality. What about you Enigma?
Enigma: Please enter your command.
Turing: Okay. Uh...go enjoy summer.
Enigma: ...is that a joke or a code? I mean, understood Master.

Later
MC: Oh my god look at all the sand art!
Vapula: It's our term vaproject, so everyone in Akihabara is collaborating. There's still more though, MC! Why you ask? You'll see later.
Itzamna: Is everyone here for the sand art class? Let's follow the rules and have fun building. Oh, Vapula? We just started.
Vapula: Sorry I'm late! Let's vaplay with the sand!
Class (Creators, Babe and Zhurong, random kids): Okay!
Sand Dragon: chirp
MC: A sand art class? / Non students can make things too? / Let's make something together, Sandy!

Itzamna: Oh, MC? I'm here as a lecturer and holding an exhibit. It's a splendid participation system! I guide everyone through making art and we all work together to create something. That said, I wish for you to relax and have fun with the process.
Kuniyoshi: People think we're a nerd school, but we do have art classes and all.
Catoblepas: Events like these show people how fun creating can be.
Vapula: We help with these things too. Very vapleasurable way to spend some time.
Catoblepas: MC, did you come to help Vapula?
MC: Yep / I didn't want to be alone... / I came to see you
(A) Catoblepas: Thank you!
(B) Catoblepas: Aha, so you came where everyone was gathering?
(C) Catoblepas: Huh? N-no, you can't just say that to just anyone. People might take it the wrong way!

Catoblepas: ...you're like Akiha Gongen that way. Umm, I want to ask... How do you move like that, all quick on your feet and active? I'm always slow and dragging my feet, so I'm late a lot...
MC: I move before I think about it / I'm happy when other people are happy / Everything happens to me...
(A) Catoblepas: O-oh, so it's not something you can explain. I think that character said the same thing. Maybe this cosplay isn't a good fit for me... UH! I'm sorry! I was just thinking about something...
(B) Catoblepas: Hmm...I think I get it a little bit. But acting honest with your feelings is the hardest thing to do...
(C) Catoblepas: O-oh. Always...? Well maybe if I had someone like that...

Vapula: Cool swimsuit, Catoblepas? Did you vapick it yourself?
Catoblepas: N-no, a fashion designer at the branch school made it after a consultation...
MC: Who? / WAR FLASHBACKS / Gee I wonder who it could beeee
Catoblepas: Akihabara has a bunch of branch schools for different specializations.
Vapula: Fashion is one of them. There's a lot of upper level students that are already working vaprofessionals!
Catoblepas: I-I'm a little embarrassed at how bold it is, but she shoved it into my hands saying that's exactly why the shadow stands out...
MC: So you made it for a cosplay pic?
Catoblepas: Oh no, I'm wearing it as a costume to fit in with the event. I hope cosplaying and sand art collabing work out... I'll explain later since the situation is important for cosplaying.
Vapula: So it's something to look forward too! But yeah, it looks like people vaput a lot of thought into their swimsuits.
Kuniyoshi: Collabs are exciting. If I collab with a furry...OH MY GOD I gotta draw on something! Anything! Even the sand if I have to!

Itzamna: Okay class, having free reign to make something might be too hard for beginners, so I got some art models!
Akiha Gongen and Tindalos walk over.
MC: WHAT
Itzamna: Defined muscles make great art subjects, and that's why I asked them to do it.
Tindalos: I stream my workouts anyway! Video uploads have to be family friendly, so watch me pose like a bodybuilder! Like this! And this!
Akiha: I work out with my senpais all the time, so I'll pose too! ...am I doing it right?
Tindalos: Damn bro, you're ripped. New pose!
MC: Nice beef, Akiha! / Look at that cut, Tindalos! / IT'S BEEF MOUNTAIN
(A) Akiha: Thanks MC! For whatever it is you just said! I'm glad to help out otakus! Call me again if you need a model, even if it's just one of you!
(B) Tindalos: Hell yeah dude! Check mah gains!
(C) Somewhere else
Zaoh: WHO SAID MOUNTAIN? I hear the call of my INTEREST! WA--
Akihabara Event Area
Vapula: Wait what why did you vaput your hands over your mouth like that? This is vapery concerning! ...you said the forbidden word? what?

Vapula: All this beefcake is making me sweat.
Sand Dragon: (chirps excitedly)
MC: Oh wow the dragon is posing too. In that case, me too!
Sand Dragon: (chirps excitedly)
Tindalos: Man, letting it all out feels awesome. Come join me as a guest the next time I stream a workout! It's only scary the first time. You'll get used to it! Actually I'll do a quick stream right now! Hey dudes, dudettes and do whatevers, Tindalos here!
Akiha Gongen: Oh! Am I on the internet now? Hi otakus! Catoblepas, join us!
Catoblepas: O-okay. Uh, V-sign? Y-yay...! MC, are you watching?
MC: Yep! / Stop! / Me too!
(C) Akiha: Wow, you're joining us? Let's make a memory of it!
Sand Dragon: bark bark!

Some people avoid the camera.
Hecate: Wow, people are so energetic in this heat. The sun, it burns my night owl skin! It's summer and all, but sunny beaches is for the world of the bright and cheery. But but, it's still a good chance for me to get a good look at the collection of cool models! And then if I'm chosen for the voting art gallery and term project exhibition, I'll get a discount ticket for Akihabara Academy's art shop! I'll just have to wait.
MC: Nerd self-talking alert / This sounds like the intro of a sloppy doujin / I love your swimsuit Hecate
(A) Hecate: That's just how otaku are! In fact, I'd say normies don't talk to themselves enough, especially about their favorite things. Can you even imagine a world where you have no favorites?
(B) Hecate: You don't like those, MC? Isn't it better to get to the point? It's nice to talk about your current life in the first panel and get to the story rather than setting it all on some pages.
(C) Hecate: OH NO, PRAISE! Uh, I don't know how I'm supposed to react! Hecately speaking, I guess I wanna turn into a wall... please say something! ...good, that's the best reaction. No regrets for my life as an author.

Itzamna: Okay class, talking is nice but it's about time to start making things, yes?
???: Oh, I just made it! May I join in too, ol' chap?
It's Turing!
Vapula: OH MY GOD TURING YOUR SWIMSUIT
MC: (admire the delicate balance) / (check him out before you think about it) / (just say it looks good)
(AB) Turing: You're just complimenting me on my Natural Body. But in the name of fitting in, thanks I guess.
(C) Turing: ...hehe, what a lovely reaction. Thank you for complimenting the swimsuit I chose.

Turing: I finished work and now I came to play. I'll help as an art demo assistant.
Itzamna: I know you've been busy for months. No need to push yourself.
Turing: Thank you! Your summer clothes are just smashing.
Itzamna: Haha, thank you. I was worried they stood out too much for a teacher.
MC: Let's swim together later! / The new look is nice / Date me!
---
(A) Itzamna: Ooh, okay. But that might be too much for me. But if floating in the shallows is fine, I would be happy to join you.
(B) Itzamna: Perhaps so. I'm usually indoors and calm, but this outfit makes me feel more excited. A change of image may be good.
(C) Itzamna: No, not in front of my students! And aren't I too old for you? I still have some color on me though. Have some more discretion. Also I shall take that as a compliment.
---
Itzamna: Okay everyone, could you help with teaching the children?
Creators: Okay!
Babe Bunyan: Let's do this thing, guys!
End of Episode half 

Live A Hero Reminiscence of Ghostwoods Episode 7 (Abridged)

Flashback, the day Lilac and Hashidoi were supposed to have an adventure in the forest. Lilac is carrying a basket for flowers so he can apologize to Hashidoi as he heads to said forest.
Lilac: I wonder if there's a lot of moria flowers? There weren't by the entrance...
Townie: Oh, Lilac! What's the basket for?
Lilac: Morning! Um, I said something mean to my brother so now I wanna apologize. I'm gonna get moria flowers for him!
Townie: Ooh, I know a good place for them then. (smiles) I grow them inside my home since moria flowers are weird and don't do well in places with bright sunlight.
Lilac: Oh! I was gonna look inside the forest for them.
Townie: There's going to be fog today, so you shouldn't go in. You could trip and fall! I can give you some of my flowers if that's okay. And there's other flowers you can give as an apology.
Lilac: Yay, thank you!
Townie: Tee hee, here you go. I hope you two make up!
Lilac: I'll do my best!
Lilac runs off, not noticing the ribbon on his basket falling off.

Meanwhile...
Hashidoi is holding the toy sword as he goes to the forest.
Hashidoi: Hmm. I don't see him around here in town. Is he already inside the forest?
Lilac's basket ribbon conveniently flutters by Hashidoi.
Hashidoi: (sniff) Oh. I guess he is. (walks off to the forest)
Later
Hashidoi: Anime...sick boy constitution...kicking in... Is there fog coming in? It's dulling my sense of smell...
Hashidoi struggles on, leaning on trees as he walks.
Hashidoi: Lilac! Are you there?
No answer. Bugs and birds chirp and buzz in the distance.
Hashidoi: ...it's creepy even though there's light... I wonder if Lilac could enjoy this? (deep breath) I bet he's further inside.

Later, Hashidoi finds a place with less fog and a giant tree.
Hashidoi: Wow! Is that the town's sacred tree Dad talked about? Also, it's clearer around here for some reason. Weird... oh, Lilac! Are you here?
No answer.
Hashidoi: Did we pass each other by somewhere? Maybe he's back home. Maybe he's mad we couldn't come on an adventure together... nah, he'd understand. Oh!
Hashidoi circles around the tree and starts digging in the shade.
Hashidoi: ...is this good enough to hide. I don't think adults would look in the roots. And now I'm tired...
Hashidoi sticks the sword down and covers it in sticks.
Hashidoi: I wonder if he'll enjoy it when we come here next time. I'll ask the doctor tomorrow if I can go outside if I feel better...oh, I smell morias.

Hashidoi follows the scent of the moria flower to some short trees blooming with the white flowers in the shade of the trees.
Hashidoi: I should pick some for Lilac since I should apologize for breaking my promise to him.
Hashidoi picks a flower, and then someone familiar shows up in front of him.
Hashidoi: ...Lilac? But...it doesn't smell like you. Is the fog here again? Sorry for yesterday, Lilac...
Not Lilac approaches silently.
Hashidoi: ...are you still mad? I picked my favorite flower for you as a present. (looks at flower for some courage) I tried my best to get here, but it's not fun without you. It might be too late to do much, but let's come on an adventure another time! With lunch, together! I'll talk Mom and the doctor and--
Hashidoi has picked a bunch of flowers and gives them to Not Lilac. Not Lilac comes even closer and seems to shapeshift.
Hashidoi: ...sorry Lilac. Will you accept my--ah

Later
Lilac: Yay! I was taught how to make a bouquet! I wonder if Hashidoi will be happy.
It's evening as Lilac runs home with a bouquet in his hands.
Lilac: ...but I have to apologize first. It's late, but I wonder if he's mad... does he hate me?
Lilac slows down as he gets closer to home. He sneaks a peek through the window and sees Hashidoi isn't around.
Lilac: He's not there...it'll be okay. I'll apologize when I see him. I practiced saying sorry...it'll be okay.
Lilac goes inside.
Lilac: ...I-I'm home! Mom, where's Hashidoi?
Lilac's Mom: (smiling) Welcome home, sweetie! Who's Hashidoi? A new friend?

Lilac: ...what? He's my brother!
Lilac's Mom: Aww, you two got so close already? Introduce us next time! Also that's a pretty bouquet you have? Did you make it? I love moria flowers!
Lilac: B-but...I made this...to apologize to Hashidoi... a neighbor showed me how...
Lilac's Mom: ...oh, did you two fight? It'll be okay. You made a nice bouquet, so he'll understand.
She smiles like somethings has clearly changed.
Lilac's Mom: Oops, I made one portion too many. Oh well, dinner time! Lilac, wash your hands before you eat your stew. I hope you two make up.
[I don't hate you, big brother. I never thought about not wanting you. So when you get better, I want us to go on an adventure together. I'm sorry, Hashidoi]
A bouquet falls softly onto the floor...

Title card: Don't Forget Me

Lilac (narrating): I grew up since then, learned about Monsters, and found out why my brother somehow disappeared. I was the only one left to remember him.
Flashback
Lilac: Welcome. Are you looking for a bouquet?
Lilac (narrating): I started working as a florist. Flowers were nothing special to me until Hashidoi disappeared, just things that were around at the time. I'm sure lots of people here think the same thing of them since there's so many kinds of flowers around, but flowers became special to me.
Lilac: Ah, that flower can't handle heat or overwatering, so be careful with it. The blue one blooms into a lot of small ones and the yellow one in the center looks like a star... A long time ago, my bro--I was given these flowers as a gift, so I love them.
Lilac (narrating): At some point, I realized I like flowers. Especially ones with relaxing scents. I became a hero who fought Monsters, and the scent always helped when I was hurt. The wish I fight for was the hope that people can smile together with plants. I'm sure my brother would have done that.
Lilac (narrating): ...I still felt an empty hole that can't be filled in my chest. Why couldn't I have said "sorry" back then...? I couldn't think of anything else back then. Maybe Hashidoi would still be here if we didn't fight. There's no way of knowing anymore, but...would I be able to say it now?

Present
Lilac: Ow... Gorou! Are you there?
Back to Lilac having fallen off a cliff in the woods. He's okay though because he fell into a pile of leaves. Also alone.
Lilac: Legs and shoulder hurt. But not that much. I can't climb back up that cliff without my hero suit, so I should call a nearby Operator to transform--oh my phone isn't working. Plan B, walking around. Still have to find that little boy, but carefully.
Lilac dusts himself and heads deeper into the misty forest.
Lilac: ...this feels creepy like I'm being watched. The fog is blocking my sense of smell too. I need to regroup with the party...

Lilac eventually finds a slightly open space.
Lilac: Where am I? I see a big tree, but...
The fog is thicker here. There doesn't seem to be any regular trees around, but it's hard to tell. Also the fog is moving like it's alive.
Lilac: I remember hearing about a there being a sacred tree for the city of Wehrmalt when I was younger... Is this it? Nobody talks about it anymore, so I didn't know it was real.
Lilac steps towards the tree and something immediately comes into view.
Lilac: ...bro...ther? Hashidoi? Why are you...
The shadowy figure of a little boy appears and is slowly coming this way!
Totally Hashidoi: ...
Lilac: I-Impossible! Nobody...remembers you... W-what? But you're here now... that... can't be right...?

The shadowy figure comes closer and touches Lilac.
Lilac: ...big...brother... it IS you.
Lilac seems to have regressed to a little kid as he reaches out to the shadow.
Lilac: ...Hashidoi, I've been looking for you forever. I...want to tell you something. Are you...still mad?
Totally Hashidoi: (shakes in place)
The shadow starts leading Lilac towards the giant tree.
Lilac: ...hey, Hashidoi? I...
Lilac loses the words he wanted to say since Back Then. The shadow stares at him for a while before pulling him towards the tree again, its color deepening.
Totally Hashidoi: ...Li...EE...KEK... Lilac, I've found you. Let's go home, Mom's waiting.
The shadow sounds just like Hashidoi did in Lilac's memories.

Lilac: ...okay. Did you come looking for me?
Totally Hashidoi: Yeah. Mom and Dad are worried. I'll lead, so don't let go of my hand.
Lilac: ...w-wait a second... Okay, I can do this. Brother? I--
Lilac kicks something at his feet and looks at it.
Lilac: A wooden sword? ...OW, my head!
Lilac lets go of Totally Hashidoi as he holds his head and picks up the sword. He recognizes it, and memories start flooding back
Hashidoi: This is the scent of a moria flower. Did you pick this because you knew I like it? When a moria flower blooms, it gives off a sweet, gentle scent. I'm half blind, but I'm sure it's beautiful.
Present
Lilac: Hashidoi? Moria flowers... I... I feel like I'm forgetting...
Totally Hashidoi holds his hand out while Lilac is suffering.
Totally Hashidoi: Lilac? Come on, let's go home. Take my hand.

Lilac nods and holds his right hand out, but stops and waves when he grips the wooden sword.
Lilac: ...huh? Something seems weird...
Something seems wrong. Lilac looks to see Hashidoi still there with a pasted smile on.
Lilac: ...no, wait.
Lilac speaks normally again instead of in his younger boy mindset.
Lilac: ...I remember. I'm the one who leads, and I hold my brother's hand with my left. Hashidoi never led... that was just my fantasy as a child.
Lilac would happily tell his brother how they would theoretically have fun running around outside, and Hashidoi would smile and listen as he sat in bed.
Lilac: It was my job to clear weeds and grass out of the way since Hashidoi couldn't see well. That was why he gave me this sword, to clear the way on adventures!
Lilac grabs onto the wooden toy sword harder to pull through his headache. When he looks up, suddenly chain tentacles come flying at him!

Lilac: !!
Lilac swings at the chains with the sword and parries the attack.
Not Hashidoi: ScrEE...?
A dark mosaic is spreading from the top of Hashidoi's head and makes a weird noise. Lilac grips the sword.
Lilac: ...no matter how long I've waited since that day hoping to apologize, Hashidoi never came back. He never will either, so... I have to tell him, or else they won't mean anything. (readies sword) I've carried these words I can never forget and moved forward. I won't apologize. I decided I will live my life carrying this burden.
Phantom Hashidoi vibrates and seems to collapse on himself!
Not Hashidoi: SssOOrrYSoRRRYSorRRyYYhahaha
A cloth seems to appear from within Not Hashidoi as the disguise falls, but it still looks like something terrible is happening to Hashidoi to Lilac.
Lilac: HASHIDOI!

Suddenly a white light bursts, followed by a shockwave!
Lilac: W-what!? ...Gorou!?
Gorou: Hey, Lilac! Grab on, I'm gonna jump! Hup!
Gorou pulls Lilac out before the shockwave hits! He then takes him some distance away where the rest of the party is.
Sui: Lilac, you're okay! We followed the signs you left to get here.
Flamier: Lilac, please pardon that blast wind. Are you okay? The Monster can bewilder people, so I used a bomb to break the effect.
Sui: Yes that was kind of a big blast. You chose to do that for a cheek pinch equivalent...?
Gorou: Well the Monster started dropping its disguise, so it became an emergency and that choice was the right one!
MC: Lilac, are you hurt? / That's not your brother!

Lilac: Everyone, you came for me. I'm sorry, thank you.
Gorou: Hey wait, you ARE hurt. You okay?
Lilac: R-right, this is from when I fell off a cliff. It's nothing much, I'll be fine after a little fixing up.
Gorou: Yeah, you should sit down. I bet they showed you some nasty stuff...we're here, it's okay. MC, could you give him some first aid?
MC: I can do simple disinfection at least. Also I see you broke your phone, so I have a spare. Come here.
MC has Lilac sit down while they pull out a simple med kit.
Flamier: ...that Monster showed up in front of Lilac too.
Gorou: Their method is so messed up! Don't fall for it, that ain't your brother.
Sui: They disguised themselves as Lilac's brother this time to attack... I can't believe they keep doing this!
Flamier: With visibility low, it would be dangerous to stay in place. I'll use another bomb to clear the fog. Everyone, please get down!

Flamier tosses a bunch of bombs into the air, which then explode!
Gorou: WHOA!
Sui: (cough) ...the fog is clear now, at least. Look, that tree!
Big Monster Type Reaper is is wrapped around the sacred tree with a chain tentacle, holding a scythe and eating flowers and the ground! Smaller ghost type Monsters are connected to the bigger one's chains and scythe!
Sui: It looks like it's using the tree as a nest and the other Monsters as familiars!
Gorou: The big one must be the main body, so it's gotta be the boss!
Flamier: MC, we cannot leave the big Monster alone!
The party readies to fight!
MC: Other Monsters are coming over too! I'll start the operation, get ready guys!

Sui: Okay! MC, I'll leave the timing of our supers to you!
Gorou: Okay there's kind of a lot of them, but time to show what I got!
Flamier: They're coming from the left and right too! We should strike first!
The three begin attacking the flunkies and working with MC's strategizing.
Lilac: ...MC, I'm okay now.
Lilac checks over himself as he calls to MC.
MC: You are? ...didn't they show you something horrible?
MC holds their left hand out to help Lilac. Lilac takes it to stand up while hanging onto the wooden sword in his right.
Lilac: MC, will you transform me again?
Lilac looks right at the Monster, then closes his eyes for a second. When he opens them again, they look filled with determination.
MC: Can you fight? / You've made up your mind, huh.

Lilac: ...yes. I see part of that Monster as my brother...as Hashidoi. But it isn't. Hashidoi would never do this, of that I am sure.
Lilac looks at the rest of the party already fighting. He looks like he's faced against the pain of someone he's lost and surpassed the heartbreak to find a powerful belief.
Lilac: ...I believe everyone here carries a difficult past as a hero, not just me. There's still so much I wanted to say. If he had lived, I don't know how happy our life could have been... But I swore in my heart to get past it. Even if I lose my memories, I won't forget that pain...or my brother.
MC: ...okay. Transforming then!
MC nods to Lilac and passes them a spare phone, then activates the transformation.
Lilac: ...that big Monster looks like it grew that big from eating something. If it's related to the disappearances in town, then I cannot let it stand anymore. Not for that, and not for taking my brother's future away.

Lilac looks to MC and holds out his right hand.
Lilac: ...MC, I have a favor to ask. Could you hold onto this sword and my brother's memento during this battle?
MC: Sure.
Lilac: Thank you very much... We will end this, here and now. I will cut out the root of evil and that Monster so that it will never harm people again!
Lilac stands ready against the Monster, then closes his eyes and whispers to his brother's memory.
Lilac: ...Hashidoi, I won't make that mistake anymore. I will protect you this time, so please... watch over me.
BATTLE START