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…is what you would have uttered, in a tone crossbred between a harsh snarl of frustration and a soft sigh of irritation. The faculty of Akumachi-Kirijo actively discourages swearing though, with repeat offenders subject to hour-long detentions. You settle for slamming your fist against the plastic table top, followed up by a rapid shaking of the head.

Takauji glances over with a slightly concerned look, his frown inquiring. “You okay, man?” he mouths.

You reply with a shrug of your shoulders, the universal sign for ‘I dunno’ amongst many others. With a nonplussed shrug back, Takauji returns to staring at the contents of his tablet. Judging by his pleased grin and the twinkle in his eye, it’s not anything to do with his English studies.

You let out a puff of air and scan the notifications box of the AETHER client. Dark grey eyeballs swivel up and down as your index finger slides across the smartphone screen. Fingers twitch in their joints as you attempt to discern a meaning from the message. It is such a feeble effort. The garbled white font amidst a pure cobalt background appears to mock you, snickering and jeering with wave after wave of incomprehensible garbage.

“So a new Player is going to enter soon? Just our luck…” You whisper to yourself, grasping at your forehead with both palms. The phone clatters as it strikes the desk. A warm bead of sweat trickles down the side of your face. “As usual, there’s no way of telling who…”

Out of boredom, you glance around the classroom. Homeroom is going as smooth as syrup today. Veleis-sensei is chatting to some guy at the front—you think he’s in the drama club. A girl is attempting to cram in a few more sentences in her Japanese homework. The class president, a prim and proper brunette, shuffles through a stack of papers and narrows her eyes at the last one. A young boy shuffles in his seat and gulps. The hind legs scrape across the polished floor with a shrill screech.

“Hey, careful!”

“Sorry, prez…”

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You blink and lean forward. There is an empty spot where a mass of spiky blonde hair should be. Akikazu is either late or playing hooky—not unexpected for the delinquent boy. You hope it’s the former, because you sort of need to catch up with him and Celeste today. Although, you can imagine their responses…

“Wow, something weird is going to happen soon. Guess we better be careful, huh Takashi-kun?”

“Tch, more bullshit. Just what I need…”

…or something along those lines.

“Hmmm…”

You sigh again and cock an ear towards Veleis-sensei. No dice, unfortunately. Your attention lasts for a mere five seconds before it shatters like glass in a hurricane. The new notification has dredged up familiar thoughts from the back of your head. They are ones you told yourself to stop contemplating about, but now it’s too late. You can’t help but reminisce on how ridiculous your life has become. The days you spent as a shut-in, watching TV, drinking convenience store soda and busting your thumbs on the latest sweet games seem like an eternity away.

Now life just ain’t letting you rest. Gaining the legendary power of the Wild Card and graduating from ‘an ordinary’ was only the beginning. Your existence is one of intense studies, frenetic Shadow combat, trekking across the Blackened Void and most of all trying your hardest to survive—both mentally and physically. Did you mention that you haven’t really played any of your video games since the 28th of March? You are already 'playing' one 24/7, and it is full of creatures worse than Jorou spiders.

“Though it isn’t all bad…”

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You’ve actually begun to go out and socialize with people. Shizuka had been struck with disbelief, the first time you told her. Part of the reason, you admit, is because the Wild Card’s Personas gain power from bonds. It’s the thought that counts, though. In the span of four weeks, you’ve made more friends than you have in the rest of your life. And now you’re pondering how well Takauji and Kanami would do in the Blackened Void. Considering that they’re both C+ ranked and possess a dragon horde’s more experience with Persona fighting than you…

…

Veleis-sensei is talking again. You should probably listen.

“I hope you have all kept up with your studies.” She says. Her voice sounds a tad disjointed, not unusual for an android integrated in human society. She scans across the classroom of thirty. Half of her students haven’t bothered to look up from their belongings. Business as usual, then. She takes a deep breath.

“No doubt some of you are already aware of this but…” She takes a deep breath. “Midterm Exams will begin on the 6th of May, right after Children’s Day. They will last for four days, ending on the 9th. Please be prepared.”

…

…

A breeze floats through an open window. Somewhere in the distance, a 100-Macca coin drops.

“Ehhh? Seriously?”

“N-no way! She’s right. Damn it all!”

“It’s so soon, too!”

“Man, it only feels like yesterday we were sitting the final exams in the first grade…”

“You mean nearly half a year ago.”

“Hmm, I can’t help but feel excited. This finally my chance to move up the totem pole!”

“If only I had some of your optimism. All I feel is dread!”

“Time to download all the practice exams I can find…”

“Do you think they’ll include Turing Machines in the maths test?”

“Knowing Veleis-sensei, definitely.”

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“Hang on!” Some kid at the front shouts. “The 8th of May is a Sunday, isn’t it? That’s a weekend! And we have exams on that day?”

“E-eh? It can’t be!”

“Impossible!”

“Truly, we are cursed.”

“You will have the three days of Golden Week to rest. Exams are only half day on the Sunday.” Veleis-sensei grunts. “Now deal with it, children.”

“So harsh…”

“As expected of a former Anti-Shadow weapon. They’ve got literal hearts of steel.”

“What does Watanabe-sensei see in her?” A boy grumbles. “What’s the point in being a toaster lover?”

“Care to share your thoughts with the rest of the class, Etsuko-kun?”

“N-nothing, sensei!”

You look over to the left and notice Takauji’s ecstatic grin has morphed into an expression of absolute despair. He clutches his head in his arms, eyes bugging out of sockets, and begins muttering something about his English homework and the class president. You refrain from comforting him, for you yourself are wondering if jumping off the Tokyo Tower would be a preferable alternative to Akumachi-Kirijo’s exams.

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>>Takashi: Stop being so bloody melodramatic.

Okay, okay.

You’ve calmed down now. No point in wailing and shrieking; best to grit your teeth and brace for the future. You’ll just take life one step at a time. It’s worked so far, why stop now?

This morning, you have a double period of your second elective. For some strange reason, you feel as if you’re on the verge of forgetting about it. Which of course, is just plain silly. You’ve attended this academy for more than three weeks now; it would truly be an embarrassment if you were to forget something so simple!

Uh, what was it again…?

[Select only one]
>CHINESE: Learn the language of the Imperial Empire of Japan’s greatest rival. In the past twenty years, a great deal of Chinese people have seen Japan’s growth and immigrated there. This may assist you in communicating with foreigners.
>PHYSICS: The study of matter and how it moves through space and time. You will gain a better understanding of how the world works.
>CHEMISTRY: The study of the composition, structure, properties and change of matter. You will learn and experiment with various chemicals—including potentially dangerous ones.
>BIOLOGY: A science about with the study of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth and evolution. This year, the course is primarily concerned with the human body.
>POLITICS/LAW: You will learn about the practice and theory of influencing people according to the law. Prepare for lots of textbook reading.
>ECONOMICS: You will learn about social sciences, supply and demand, what makes markets tick and many more. It’s good for money management, you suppose.

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>>42892098

>>42892219
>PHYSICS: The study of matter and how it moves through space and time. You will gain a better understanding of how the world works.

>>42892219
>>ECONOMICS: You will learn about social sciences, supply and demand, what makes markets tick and many more. It’s good for money management, you suppose.

>>42892219
>BIOLOGY: A science about with the study of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth and evolution. This year, the course is primarily concerned with the human body.
cue human biology lewd shenanigans

>>42892219
>>ECONOMICS: You will learn about social sciences, supply and demand, what makes markets tick and many more. It’s good for money management, you suppose.
It is useful for goddamn everything.

>>42892219
So can we make today the "stuff Takashi needs to catch up on" day? I suggest that after school we go to Drama Club and then spend the evening wandering downtown in hopes we find Kozue again.

>>42892219
>ECONOMICS: You will learn about social sciences, supply and demand, what makes markets tick and many more. It’s good for money management, you suppose.

>>42892098
FINALLY!

>>42892219
>>ECONOMICS: You will learn about social sciences, supply and demand, what makes markets tick and many more. It’s good for money management, you suppose.

>>42892219
>>POLITICS/LAW: You will learn about the practice and theory of influencing people according to the law. Prepare for lots of textbook reading.

That 2 week break was nice. Might have written a bit too much for the OP, though.

>>42892373
If you want to. You're the ones driving here.

Kay writing now...

>INTELLIGENCE: 49 points
Only 11 more to rank up!

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>>42892621
>That 2 week break was nice

>>42892219
>>CHEMISTRY: The study of the composition, structure, properties and change of matter. You will learn and experiment with various chemicals—including potentially dangerous ones.
Its like you niggers dont even want to make drugs and bombs.

>>42892780
I know. Instead everyone seems to want to follow in our mom's footsteps. Which I'm hesitant to do, since that flashback from a few threads ago got me super paranoid about her.

>>42892795
>Which I'm hesitant to do, since that flashback from a few threads ago got me super paranoid about her.
I don't see how that made you hesitant to do so or why you are paranoid.

>>42892241
>GO Vlad
...is this a voice actor joke?

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>>42892780
>>42892795

>>42892840
I didn't even make that connection, it was just the first I've been waiting for this, picture I scrolled across.

But the answer is probably.

>>42892855
>not getting rich with drugs

>>42892808
I admit it's kind of odd, yeah. I can't quite put my finger on the origin of this feeling. Maybe the "It is dark. No-one can see her actions" line? I don't know. I don't feel like she's malicious, but I do get the sense she's hiding something important from us and that makes me not trust her. So I want to go against her expectations of us in the hopes it will keep us from getting caught in the fallout from whatever she's hiding.

>>42892912
>Not hoarding so much money it bankrupts nations, you own the government and have people convinced that by bending over for you that the wealth will trickle down.

Drug dealers are small time.

>>42892935
>whatever she's hiding.
Maybe she wants her son to have a good job.

>>42893002
No, she's not hiding that at all.

>>42892964
>not making $7,240,043,661 in a single year off a single drug
Small fry.

>>42893032
And what do you think she is hiding?

>>42893038
Not getting a 700 billion dollar handout for just being so fucking big.

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That’s right. Your second elective is ECONOMICS. It was recommended by your mother. And by recommended, you meant she sent you several text messages explaining why taking the course would prove beneficial for your adult life. The hint was as subtle as a chemical explosion. Upon seeing it, Shizuka had placed an understanding hand on your shoulder and advised you to do as your mother said.

So that’s why you are in Classroom Block B, listening to a lecture about basic supply and demand.

“There are four basic laws of supply and demand, that can be applied to virtually any good. Pay attention class, because this knowledge might come in handy in the near future…”

You mother does have a point, you reason. This stuff is interesting.

“Time is important to supply. Suppliers must react quickly to changes in price or demand. It’s important for them to determine whether a price change caused by demand will be temporary of permanent…”

There is noticeable tension in the air. Not a huge amount that lets itself shattered by a single outburst, but the type that appears to be slowly building up over time. Boys and girls are throwing challenging glares back and forth, as they clench their pencils and scribbles on papers.

“Can you translate these sentences back to Japanese? Yes? Good. You’ll need to.”

A storm is brewing. It is one filled with long questions, frustrating essays, broken pencils and vending machine snacks.

“Next, we’ll take a closer look at the text. Yes, you’ll have to write a small essay about it on the test. Don’t worry, it’s not very big. You should still try your hardest…”

Your mother had passed her studies with flying colors. Despite her carefree and relaxed attitude, Shizuka’s grades were well into the high distinction level. Determination strikes you, rising from the despair generated from mind-numbing English studies. It’s time for you to match the rest of your family…

>Your INTELLIGENCE has increased by 3 points!

Always with these threads as I'm about to sleep.

Have fun shadowrunning, everyone. Just think, a creator of AETHER will probably enter as a player soon to track our progress.

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[12:40 pm, 21-Apr-2129 (THURSDAY)]

“So, what the hell did you call me for?”

Location: the school rooftop. You sent a message to Celeste and Akikazu to gather here. The former joined you the moment the school bell rang. The latter took twenty minutes to show up. In that time, you and Celeste finished eating your lunches. Akikazu, by comparison, is still holding a cup of instant ramen.

“The new notification, duh!” Celeste says. “A new Player is going to show up soon. Didn’t you read the message?”

“So?”

“Pardon?”

“We ain’t got a clue who this new guy is. We can’t stop him from entering the game. So, what’s there to talk about?”

“I think it’s important to discuss it.” Celeste responds. “At the very least, we get to hang out with each other. Isn’t that fun?”

“Urgh, not again…”

“C’mon Osaragi-san, don’t be so negative.”

“Tch. Fine. Hey, Takashi.”

“Yeah?” You say.

“What do you suggest we do?”

…

>Hold on tight and see what happens.
>Let’s train ourselves in the meantime.
>We should explore as much of the Blackened Void as possible.
>Try and find out who the new Player is.
>Custom option.

>>42892219
>CHEMISTRY: The study of the composition, structure, properties and change of matter. You will learn and experiment with various chemicals—including potentially dangerous ones.
I wonder if one of the "experiments" will be on how to make a tarfuri canister.

>>42893275
>>Let’s train ourselves in the meantime.
Grind more stats.

>>42893275
>Let’s train ourselves in the meantime.

>>42893275
>>Let’s train ourselves in the meantime.
and
>We should explore as much of the Blackened Void as possible.

>>42893275
>>Let’s train ourselves in the meantime.
>We should explore as much of the Blackened Void as possible.
Since we can't stop it we might as well git gud

>>42893275
Compare the old scrambled messages to the clean ones and see if it's random scrabbling or a code/cypher what ever the fuck you call those things

>>42893275
>Let’s train ourselves in the meantime.
>We should explore as much of the Blackened Void as possible.

>>42893275
>>Let’s train ourselves in the meantime.

>>42893275
>Hold on tight and see what happens.

>>42893275
>Let’s train ourselves in the meantime.
Dem git gud gains.

>>42893321
I like this, if only Fumika Shibuya could be told about AETHER without making her suspicious.

>>42893321
>>42893470
We might have a shot at it when we hit Int level 3 at 60.

>>42893275
>>Let’s train ourselves in the meantime

>>42893275
>Train by exploring the Forlorn Abyss

>>42893321
I bet it's random

>>42893492
CHA is still more important.

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“Let’s just train ourselves in the meantime.” These words sound weird coming out of your mouth. “It’s the best we can do. Something tells me that AETHER won’t let us find out who the new Player is, if we began searching for him and her.”

“Didn’t that Observer robot say that the new Players are connected to the current ones?” Celeste asks.

“That could apply to literally everyone in our classes.”

“I’ve noticed they’re people you’ve met, Takashi-kun.” Celeste says. “I moved into your apartment block and you ate ramen with Akikazu.”

“After he found my wallet.” Akikazu interjects.

“Could be a coincidence. The Observer said ‘current Players’, not just me.” You cross your arms. “Besides, I’m not keen on running around on what could be a wild-goose chase. Especially when midterm exams are just around the corner.”

“Oh yeah.” Celeste smiles. “So…”

“What?”

“You prepared for them?”

“I’ve been studying every day. Some days I study more than others.” You say. “Really though, I’m trying not to think about the English part.”

Celeste nods. “What about you, Osaragi-san?”

“…don’t ask.” Akikazu growls.

“Ooh, not a fan of studying, I see.”

“Shut it, Tachibana.”

"Well, if you ever need someone to tutor you on English..."

Akikazu shoots her a look that could vaporise steel. Celeste giggles and resumes chatting with you.

>>42893703
We're 8 from int up and 16ish from cha up, we need the int up for the exams.

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>>42893730
>"Well, if you ever need someone to tutor you on English..."
Yes, please.

Remember, doing well in tests increases your popularity.

And popularity leads to intimacy.

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>>42893807
>doing well in tests increases your popularity.
This is what nerds actually believe.

>>42893844
It sorta does in this school, where everyone judge you based on test results and stuff.

>>42893807
>>42893844
Well, we'll need to study hard to get that Judgement S. Link, might as well.

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Later, you find yourself walking down a corridor leading back to your classroom. Suddenly, you encounter an unknown figure lurking in the shadows. At first glance it appears to be a cross between an undead minion and a Fallen Downtown hobo. You freeze up and instinctively reach for your knucledusters. Then you realize weapons are banned in this school! The moaning figure is moving closer. You step back, gulping.

It continues to advance, gurgling and muttering obscenities under its breath. Why isn’t anyone else freaking out?

“Ah…”

Wait a minute, you recognize that mop-like nest of brown hair. That friendly, slightly grizzled and cheerful voice is familiar, too. It’s Watanabe-sensei! Poor man doesn’t look too good. Bags hang low from eyes as red as a box of cherries. He’s put in an honest effort to dress properly, but there’s signs of obvious haste present on his clothes. His shirt is ruffled and he’s wearing sneakers in place of his usual black leather shoes. It’s obvious this is a man in dire need of a good cappuccino.

“Sensei?” You ask, carefully.

The man blinks. He frowned, then relaxes a fraction.

“Er… Wakui-san, was it?” He says. “Yes, that’s your name. Sorry. I haven’t slept well lately.”

“What happened?” You ask.

“Mmm, just some important projects I’ve been stuck on.” Watanabe-sensei says, pinching the side of his cheek. “I’ve been staring at a computer screen for the past 24 hours. As you can see, it hasn’t been doing great things to my health.”

“You look ready to keel over at any minute. Are you okay?”

Watanabe-sensei chuckles. He yawns “I appreciate your concern. Don’t worry about your sensei here; that’s Veleis’s job. She kept nagging at me to go to bed over the phone. She’s adorable when she gets annoyed like that.”

“Uh…”

“Don’t worry about me. I’m used to this. Worry more about your studies. Midterms are after Golden Week.” He smiles. “See you at IT class, then. I'm off to grab a bite or two.”

>>42893807
>>42893844
This is sci-fi fantasy Japanese high school. Intramural rankings mean EVERYTHING. Aceing the midterms and shooting up the rankings means we'll be meeting very important people very quickly.

>>42893844
You haven't played persona then

>>42893943
Plus, as mentioned previously, the Wakui family name is relatively famous, so there's expectations to maintain, as well (for better or for worse).

>>42893978
Its a joke.

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You watch him go. Then you feel a rough hand slap you on the back.

“Takashi Wakui, my good man!” Kaz Inaba booms. “Drama club is on today! I’m looking forward to seeing you there.”

“Uh, captain…”

“What is it? Do you have some urgent business? I’ll understand if it’s some family matter, but you’ll be missing out on the fun!”

He strides off, whistling the Japanese national anthem as you are left in the dust. You blink. Then the sixth period bell chimes. ..

[4:00 pm, 21-Apr-2129 (THURSDAY)]

School has ended. Exams will be occurring soon. AETHER is readying to strike. You should prepare yourself in the meantime…

[Input your command]

>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)
>Study in the library. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
>Wander around the city. (Unknown)
>Return home to rest. (Skips to night)
>Call the team to the Blackened Void.
>Custom option.

>>42894058
>>Call the team to the Blackened Void.

>>42894058
>crow
We are not going to Void today.
>>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894058
>Call the team to the Blackened Void.

>>42894058
>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894058
>>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894058
>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894058
Blackened Void -> Forlorn Abyss

>>42894058
>>Study in the library. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
8 more for rank up

>>42894058
>>Study in the library. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)

>>42894058
>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894084
Why, what does the crow mean?

>>42894058
>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894058
>Study in the library. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)

>>42894110
We can study at home.

>>42894115
Takashi and Celeste had a very bad experience with crows while rescuing Akikazu.

>>42894058
>Call the team to the Blackened Void.

>>42894058
>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894058
>>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

We'll study at our house.

>>42894058
>>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)
We can't not go after being invited by the captain. Plus, potentially more hyperdramatic Bad End HBQ.

>>42894134
Oh, I thought it had some meaning in the actual game
>>42894058
>Call the team to the Blackened Void.

>>42894190
The Critfail Crow is not to be trifled with.
>>42894058
>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894058
>>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894058
>>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

Writing now...

>>42894058
>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

>>42894058
>Attend drama club. (Justice S-Link)

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>>42894397
>>42894659

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>>Attend drama club.

You enter the back of the auditorium. Drama club is in full swing. Kaz Inaba stands at the podium, declaring a series of news announcements at the top of his lungs. The guy has surprisingly vocal strength for his average height and unassuming pair of glasses. He waves at you the moment you step in.

“Good of you to join us, Wakui! Please, take a seat!”

“Does he do that to everybody?” You mutter. Nobody really blinked when he called out to you.

“Kaz is friendly to everyone.” The boy next to you replies, with something of a strained smile. “The first thing he does when meeting a new member is to memorize their name and face.”

“He reads the attendance list to make sure he hasn’t forgotten anyone and he goes around at lunchtime reminding us about club.” A girl chimes in. “It gets a little annoying sometimes.”

“Still, better to have a friendly sempai rather than a strict and cold one…” The boy says.

“Okay everyone, today we’ll be doing drama exercises.” Upon hearing the moans from some of the more experienced students, he grins. “Yes, I know how excellent some of you are. However, practice makes perfect and we must always take care of the new members. So chop chop, let’s get to it!”

Groups are formed and you find yourself in the one with Kaz. He whips out his tablet and opens a document.

“Have any of you heard about the Backwards Scene exercise?” He says. “A pair is selected. The first person makes up the last line of an imaginary scene. The partners must then improvise a scene backwards. It trains an actor to think on their feet and use their imagination. It’s one of my favourite exercises, just after Public Solitude.”

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The drama captain looks across the group. There are seven people, yourself included sitting in a circle and waiting for his decision. He smiles.

“Wakui, why don’t you partner with me?”

“Huh?”

“Let’s put on a jolly good show for these lads, right here right now!”

“Uh, I’m not good at acting, though.”

“That’s perfectly alright. Why, when I first started in middle school, I could barely string two lines together. Look at me now, the captain of drama!” Kaz laughs. “You won’t improve if you don’t practice!”

“Well, that’s true…”

“Come now, don’t be shy. I don’t expect you to perform on the level of a Hollywood star. Just do your best.”

Kaz’s charisma is powerful. You find yourself swayed by his words. You stand up and move to face him.

“Ready?”

“As I’ll ever be…”

“Let us commence! The scene is in the twenty-first century, in a world without Personas but nevertheless has magic. It takes place a café that has recently suffered an explosion…"

>Roll 1d20 to act
>Best out of three

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>42894808

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>42894808

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>42894808

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>42894808
Check out my nat 20

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>42894808

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>42894808

>>42894825
>>42894832
>>42894835
Not bad.

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>42894808

>>42894825
Well, looks workable at the least.

>>42894808
anyone hoping for the last line to be "I'll buy that for a dollar!"

>>42895049
I am.[\spoiler]

>>42895049
Well, now that you've said it I am.

Okay, I had to step outside for a bit before. I've only just started writing now. Apologies for the delay.

>>42895252
No worries.

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>42894808

>>42895274
Please don't roll anymore.

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>>42895274
Bad anon.

>>42895285
>>42895464
But he used up all his bad luck on a roll that didn't matter.

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You proceed to act out the role. In your mind, you imagine a quaint little rest stop in the middle of a teeming city. Akihabara, the Electric Town. Then a mysterious woman comes along one day and engages in a fight with a party of seven heroes. The result is that the whole place gets blown up.

“We, uh, might have screwed that up.” The Warrior say, as he takes in the full view of the debris. Windows shattered, beams broken and cakes flung everywhere. Strawberry mixture has landed on his sword. “Like, a little.”

“I think ‘a little’ is overstating is a bit.” The Pilot muses. “Is anyone still alive?”

“We screamed at everyone to evacuate when fighting began, so yes.”

“What is a human doing with a demon assault force?” The Warrior asks. “Are there humans living in the Underworld?”

“Apparently so.” The Pilot says. “Guess she’s a traitor. It'll be interesting to see what she knows.”

“Her time powers are a real pain in the ass. How the hell are we supposed to get around that?”

“Magic Resistance is one way.”

“What?”

“If you’re resistant to magic to an extreme degree, you can move through stopped time.”

“How the hell do you know that?”

“Turns out being married to the heir of a megacorps lets you meet all sorts of interesting people. ”

“Okay, then who is going to learn Magic Resistance?”

“Why not you?”

“Are you serious? I’m crap at magic! Haven’t you seen the way I fight? All I do is swing my sword around. Half the time, it bitches at me.”

“Trust my adult instincts, Narukami.”

“You’re only three years older than me, Mitsuka! You are not an adult in any stretch of the word!”

File: kaz4.jpg (115 KB, 1280x720)

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…

The scene ends there. Kaz played out the Warrior, you played out the Pilot. Your words came out stuttered and slurred. Numerous times you had to spot and pause for breath. Kaz, in comparison, spoke clearly and freely. His speech was a free-flowing as a gently river stream. He even motioned and moved about, like he was really playing a hot-blooded youth with a massive sword. You just stood there like a loon.

“Give a round of applause for Wakui here, fellows!”

“Uh, I don’t think that’s really necessary…”

“Nonsense! You acted well, for a beginner. You should feel proud of yourself.”

>Your CHARISMA has increased by 4 points!

Drama club continues. The clock strikes five-thirty. It’s time for you to pack up and go home. As you grab your blazer and head towards the exit, you notice the captain sidling up towards you.

“Hey.” You greet.

“Ah, Wakui. Before you go, may I ask you a question?”

“What?”

“Are you enjoying yourself?”

You think.

>Yeah, drama club is fun.
>I don’t know what to think right now.
>I don’t feel confident enough, sempai.
>No, not really.
>Custom option.

>>42895729
>Yeah, drama club is fun.

>>42895729
>>Yeah, drama club is fun.

>>42895729
>Yeah, drama club is fun.
>I still kinda stink at it though.

>>42895729
>Yeah, drama club is fun.

>>42895729
>>Yeah, drama club is fun.

>>42895729
>>I don’t feel confident enough, sempai.

Acknowledge our limitations.

>>42895729
>No, not really.

>>42895729
>I don’t feel confident enough, sempai.

>>42895729
>No, not really.
"I'm mostly just here to raise my Charisma sta...er, I mean, get over my issues with public speaking."

>>42895729
>Sempai noticed me!

>>42895729
>I don’t feel confident enough, sempai.

>>42895729
>I don’t feel confident enough, sempai.

>>42895815
Don't forget social link!

I hope we get our first duel soon.

>>42895764
I'll second this.

>>42895729
>>Yeah, drama club is fun.
"Even though I'm not very much good at it."

>>42895729
>Yeah, drama club is fun.
> But I still don't feel very confident on stage.

File: takashi2.jpg (294 KB, 1280x720)

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“Yeah, drama club is fun.” You reply. “Although…”

“Something wrong?”

“I’m just not feeling very confident, sempai.” You admit. “I sort of had issues speaking with others when growing up. Part of the reason why I came here is because I wanted to improve my public speaking skills.”

You shrug. “Which why I was so lousy today.”

“You shouldn’t put yourself down like that.” Kaz smiles. “It’s okay to be nervous. In fact, many students join the drama club to overcome their shyness—myself included.”

“Seriously?”

“Yup! So you don’t have to feel bad about yourself. Just try your hardest and you’ll make it through.”

The two of you have left the building. It’s a clear afternoon. The city is abuzz with the sounds of traffic and commuters. The school grounds are almost empty, save for a few stragglers exiting the library with wearing fingers and frantic minds.

“Say, I have an idea. Hold out your phone for a second.”

“Okay…?”

Kaz fiddles with his tablet. A moment later, you have received mail.

“How To Think Big, the ebook?” You ask. “Is this for me?”

“It’s what I read back in my first year to gain confidence. I hope it’ll work for you.”

“Gee, thanks sempai.” You can’t help but smile a little.

“Don’t mention it!” Kaz puffs out his chest with pride. “In this digital age, information like this is easily found. Even if humanity does, er, sometimes ‘forget’ to pay the bills.”

>You’re acquired an ebook. You can read it at home at night or on the weekends. Something tells you that reading this one may increase your CHARISMA or UNDERSTANDING.

File: 8_Justice.jpg (128 KB, 753x1060)

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>RANK UP!
>The Kaz Inaba Social Link has increased to Level 2!
>Archangel has learned Evade Dark!

File: 1411943433807.gif (628 KB, 697x400)

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>>42896312
>>Archangel has learned Evade Dark!
That is useful.

>>42896270
What a bro.

>>42896371
Darn tootin'

>>42896378
indeed

>>42896312
Well, that's handy. I mean, we've already got Resist Dark from Ippon-Datara, but at least this will help cover our weakness when using Archangel.

Also, real nice of Kaz. He seems like a cool dude. Which worries me, since he's Justice Arcana and that symbolizes long term consequences and abstract concepts of fairness. This Social Link might go somewhere depressing by its end.

File: shizuka_2.jpg (18 KB, 210x240)

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[6:30 pm, 21-Apr-2129 (THURSDAY)]

“Welcome back, Takashi!”

You eat dinner with Shizuka, as always. She’s tried to cook a stew today, using noodles, beef, carrots and potatoes. It’s a little lacking in salt, but delicious nonetheless. She washes it down with a can of vegetable juice. You have water instead.

“So, how was school?”

“Alright.” You say. It is what you mention when you don’t really feel like talking. You see your sister look a little disappointed and sigh. “Well, midterm exams are coming up soon. There’s that.”

“Oh, so it’s that time of the year again?” Shizuka says. “Good luck, Takashi. You’ll need to study a lot.”

“I figured that out ages ago, nee-san.”

“You know, kaa-san will probably reward you if you do well on your exams. I think she promised me a really heavy amount if I ever reached the top place in the year level. It never happened to me, though. I was always near the bottom of the top 15%.”

“Uh-huh…”

“Doing well in your exams might make you more popular with your classmates. But is that important to you, Takashi?”

“I don’t know yet, nee-san.”

“Well, just do your best.” Shizuka smiles. “There’s no shame in that.”

“Thanks, nee-san.”

She leaves for work. You have the night to spend, alone. What will you do?

>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
>Read ‘How To Think Big’ (Increases CHARISMA or UNDERSTANDING)
>Wander around the city (Unknown)
>Play video games (Does absolutely nothing)
>Go to bed early.
>Custom option.

>>42896661
>>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
>vidya does nothing
Fuck you! Play vidya in english to improve it!

>>42896661
>>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
As much as I'd like dat charisma, we need to learn shit.

>>42896661
>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)

Pre-exam Intelligence grinding. Gotta love it.

>>42896661
>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
While I want to meet death girl again, we really need to get our INT up.

>>42896661
>>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)

>>42896661
>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)

>>42896680
Thats some good thinking there anon.

>>42896661
>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
>Ask Celeste for English tutoring if she's free.

>>42896661
>>Read ‘How To Think Big’ (Increases CHARISMA or UNDERSTANDING)
It won't win but It has my vote.

>>42896661
>>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
Desperate last minute study!

>>42896661
>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)

>“Doing well in your exams might make you more popular with your classmates

Shizuka knows what's up.

>>42896661
>Wander around the city (Unknown)

>>42896661
>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)

>>42896661
>Go INT, study that shit

Fuck you captcha those are not street signs

>>42896661
>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
Gotta get that intelligence.

>>42896661
>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)

>>42896661
>Study for exams. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)

>>42896661
>Wander around the city (Unknown)

>(Does absolutely nothing)
hey hey, there's PLENTY of stuff to learn there! ENGLISH, pattern recognition, genre savviness for AETHER, programming techniques....

>>42896709
Backing>>42896661

>>42896661
>>42896709
I already voted for studying, but I'll add supporting this onto that.

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>>Takashi: Ask Celeste to help you.

<THE_FIRST> Hey Celeste
<THE_FIRST> You there
<chocolat_orange> what’s up takashi-kun :)
<THE_FIRST> Uh this might sound a bit strange
<THE_FIRST> But can you help me with English?
<chocolat_orange> um why would you think that’s weird? i’d be glad to!
<chocolat_orange> on the condition that you help me with a few maths problems of course.
<chocolat_orange> how about it?
<THE_FIRST> Sounds fine to me
<THE_FIRST> Should I come over to your apartment?
<chocolat_orange> i’m not in my apartment, takashi-kun.
<THE_FIRST> What?
<chocolat_orange> i’m in the safehouse.
<THE_FIRST> The hell?
<THE_FIRST> You’re in the Blackened Void?
<THE_FIRST> Why?
<chocolat_orange> well, why not. it’s protected from Shadows. it’s quiet and there’s nothing to distract me there. sounds like a perfect study spot for me :)
<THE_FIRST> Sheesh you could have at least told me you were going into the Forgotten City
<THE_FIRST> That place is dangerous, y’know
<chocolat_orange> sorry :P
<chocolat_orange> i’ll keep it mind next time.
<chocolat_orange> hurry up and come over then! these questions won’t solve themselves!
<THE_FIRST> Alright, I’m heading out now

>>42897208
I guess we'll just tell Shizuka that we're going to the library, or something like that?

>>42897251
Probably
>>42897208
Why do I feel that this is going to lead to us hanging out in the hideout a lot more often?

>>42897339
inb4 hideout upgrades help us study or train.

>>42897339
Clearly it's Thorn pushing the party to spend more and more time at the hideout so that when shit goes down and shadows are EVERYWHERE, we'll be in the one safe location.

>>42897339
>>42897379
Its honestly surprising we don't hang out there more. I mean who doesn't want their own hideout?

>>42897434
Well, the potentially lethal outside world is a pretty good deterrent.

>>42897434
yeah, you usually have to rent it out or reserve it. But then again, we have to keep it clean ourselves.

Who's up to play Persona TTRPG!?

>>42897454
You don't have to go there.

>>42897464
Cleanbot when?

>>42897464
>Who's up to play Persona TTRPG!?
Explain further?

>>42897598
homebrew, although by 21XX, someone's probably made an official version.

>>42897620
Yeah I'd be interested.

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[Later…]

“I don’t think I’m ever going to get used to this.”

“That’s what I thought at first, Takashi-kun. Then I forgot about it.”

“At first…? This isn’t the first time you’ve come here?”

“Like I said, it’s a perfect study spot. I’ve also been using the streets to practice fencing and fire magic.”

“Okay, as your leader, I’m ordering you to quit doing that.”

“But why?”

“Because there are Shadows outside and it’s not safe to head out there alone!”

“Pffft, they’re nothing. I’ve been keeping close to the bonfire, so don’t panic.”

You are sitting in the worn kitchen of the Forgotten City safehouse. Celeste has made tea with a couple of teabags. You sip from a plastic mug. It’s very sweet, which isn’t entirely out of the realms of possibly. Outside, dark clouds scrape across the landscape and bitter gales tunnel through holes in the the derelict buildings.

“What maths problems do you need help with?”

“These ones. I don’t get how pushdown automata are supposed to work.”

“Are you okay with finite state automata?”

“I…think so, Takashi-kun?”

“Okay, you know how FSAs just run through the states and only have to end on a final state?”

“Yes, I know that.”

“Pushdown automata have a stack. Things are pushed on with a plus and popped on with a minus. Look, I’ll draw you a diagram…”

>Your INTELLIGENCE has increased by 2 points!

Then you moved onto English.

“How’s this, Celeste?”

She takes the paper and scans it. “…you got the plurals wrong. And that adverb should be an adjective.”

“Shit, seriously? I don’t get it…”

“What part don’t you understand?”

“Differences between adverbs and adjectives.” You grumble. “Other than the fact that abverbs end in ‘-ly’.”

“Not all the time, Takashi-kun.” Celeste points out. “The ‘hard’ in ‘They fought hard.’ Is an example. It’s a semi-negative adverb, too.”

“What the hell does that mean?”

“I’ll tell you the differences between adverbs and adjectives first. They are as follows…”

>Your INTELLIGENCE has increased by 3 points!

>>42897649
I meant Takashi and the party playing Persona TTRPG....as a joke....because they have a hideout....

File: night_city.jpg (156 KB, 1280x720)

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Now it’s getting late. You and Celeste decide to call it day. You pack up your workbooks and prepare to return to the real world.

“So, how’s life in Japan for you?”

“Good!” Celeste says, cheerfully. “It’s a little more crowded than America, but I think I’ve been adjusting well enough. Of course, being fluent in the main language tends to help.”

“You know, I never did find out how you got so good at Japanese.”

“I studied!” Celeste says, tapping her chest with a wide smile. “It was as simple as that. The food is nice here. There’s more of an emphasis on wielding a Persona, too.”

“That’s only putting it lightly, Celeste.”

You fling open the ornate door and exit into the dusty alleyway. The moon is visible in the sky. Flickering lights burn in the horizon.

“What about you, Takashi-kun?”

“Hmm?”

“What’s your opinion about your country? What does a local like you think?”

“Me? Well…”

>Japan is the greatest country in the world. Fuck anyone who says otherwise.
>I haven’t been outside Japan, so I can’t tell.
>It has its up and downs. Overall it’s alright.
>Japan has a lot of societal problems, but it’s still my home.
>Japan sucks. Why did you even come here?
>Custom option.

>>42897680
>>I haven’t been outside Japan, so I can’t tell.
>>It has its up and downs. Overall it’s alright.

>>42897680
>>It has its up and downs. Overall it’s alright.
but really
>I haven’t been outside Japan, so I can’t tell.
gotta be someplace to know it after all.

>>42897680
>Japan has a lot of societal problems, but it’s still my home.

>>42897680
>Japan has a lot of societal problems, but it’s still my home.

>>42897680
>I haven’t been outside Japan, so I can’t tell.

>>42897680
>I haven’t been outside Japan, so I can’t tell.

has it been a full moon yet?

>>42897680
>Japan has a lot of societal problems, but it's still my home.

WHAT IMAGE?! FUCK YOU, CAPTCHA!!!

>>42897680
>I haven’t been outside Japan, so I can’t tell.
>>It has its up and downs. Overall it’s alright.

>>42897680
>>I haven’t been outside Japan, so I can’t tell.

>>42897680
>>Japan has a lot of societal problems, but it’s still my home.
Also, woo, 57 Intelligence.

>>42897680
>Japan has a lot of societal problems, but it’s still my home.

>>42897669
Meh.

>>42897680
>>It has its up and downs. Overall it’s alright.

>>42897680
>“What’s your opinion about your country? What does a local like you think?”
Well fuck, she works for the gobernment.

>>42897680
>It has its up and downs. Overall it’s alright.

But I'm not going to conquer Korea or anything.

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>>42897961
>Telling this to a guberment agent.

>>42897680
>>I haven’t been outside Japan, so I can’t tell.
>>It has its up and downs. Overall it’s alright.

>>42897898
Shit she knows about our porn.

>>42897990
>Remove

Goddammit Overchan, go back to False Dendrite.

>>42898056
>Thinking that is from FD.

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>>42898073
>thinking I care

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“I haven’t been outside of Japan, so I can’t tell if it’s better or worse than other countries.” You muse. “It has its fair share of ups and downs. Overall, it’s alright. It’s fairly technologically advanced and there’s a lot of nice sightseeing spots, even in the twenty-second century. But our society does have a lot of issues.”

“Oh?”

“Competition is high; parents try their hardest to put their kids into cram school or whatever. Our birth rate is still lower than most countries. A lot of the early nasty soul experiments took place in Tokyo, so our government is seriously antsy about anything remotely related to it.” You say. “And, of course, if you don’t have a Persona you’re pretty much a second-class citizen around here. You get called an ‘ordinary’ and bullied by the rest of society.”

“I heard about it before I came here.” Celeste mutters. “America is better about that, at least.”

“I think your home country is a lot more open. Japan is more tightly focused. Ever heard of ‘wa’? It’s basically conformity and unity over personal interests. We focus more on the group rather than the individual. I don't like it.”

“Still, it can’t be all bad.” Celeste says. “I watched a documentary about Japan a few years ago. It told me that the social stigma of lacking a Persona is really only prominent in the adolescent years. Once people grow up, they find that a lot of jobs don’t need magic.”

“Doesn’t change the fact that Persona users and ordinaries are practically segregated by an electric fence, and then some.” You grumble. “You came here because of an Akumachi-Kirijo scholarship, right?”

“Yep! But there’s also another reason why I chose Japan.”

“Huh…go on.”

Celeste raises her fingers to her mouth and smiles. “If I had to put it in a few words, I could say it’s because I wanted to prove myself.”

“…”

File: 1384769634616.png (267 KB, 564x600)

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>>42898331
>It’s basically conformity and unity over personal interests. We focus more on the group rather than the individual. I don't like it.”
>I don't like it.”

>>42898457
I don't understand

>>42898469
Fucking hipsters don't get that the good of society benefits society.

I am stuck with the opposite and I hate it.

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[8:00 am, 22-Apr-2129 (FRIDAY)]

“I’m off, nee-san.”

“Bye, Takashi!”

It’s just another ordinary day. Eat breakfast, dress in uniform, take train and enter academy. This time, you notice someone else walking the same path at you. It is a girl you haven’t seen in a while. Long, black hair and clutching a silver laptop. Fumika Shibuya hobbles to school, staring at the ground. You see her teeth come inches from clamping down on her nails. Her face is scrunched up in mild distaste. For a person as quiet as her, it must mean something is bothering her to a great degree.

“Hey.” You walk up to her and greet. You try and put on a smile.

It takes a few seconds for her to turn her head and respond. “Oh. It’s you.” She says, softly and without emotion.

“Uh, yeah. It’s me. Takashi Wakui.” You say. “How…how have you been, Fumika?”

She turns her head away. “Not bad.” Is what she manages to say.

You continue to walk. Fumika is ignoring you. Or maybe she doesn't know what to say. If that's the case, she's in the same boat as you.

>Want to hang out after class?
>Is something wrong with your laptop?
>I’ll leave you be, then.
>What new projects have you been working on?
>Custom option.

>>42898525
>Is something wrong with your laptop?

>>42898525
>>What new projects have you been working on?

>>42898499
k

There are all sorts, each with their own issues and downsides.

>>42898525
>ask for help on programming

>>42898525
>>Is something wrong with your laptop?

>>42898525
>Is something wrong with your laptop?

>>42898525
>What new projects have you been working on?

>>42898525
>Is something wrong with your laptop?
>What new projects have you been working on?
>ever Hear of Aether?

>>42898525
>Is something wrong with your laptop?

>>42898525
>What new projects have you been working on?

>>42898525
>>What new projects have you been working on?
She's totally the hacker from the end of the last thread.

Also, I'm surprised we didn't get an increase on the Magician social link just now.

>>42898525
>Want to hang out after class?

>>42898525
Fuck it, let's go full on meta.

>Hey, do you happen to know someone who's using the handle Nightingale?

>>42898525
>>What new projects have you been working on?

>>42898642
Nooooo, this is a bad idea on so many levels.

>>42898525
>Is something wrong with your laptop?
If we were in combat, she would have the distressed condition.

>>42898822
Why? Shadowrun enablers are the best way to make people like that more paranoid. It's what they need.

>>42898878
I'd back it but we hehe no in character way of knowing.

File: 1440834617088.png (1.33 MB, 1200x1600)

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Silence hangs above the two of you. It feels like a dozen caterpillars crawling up your spine. The rest of the student body chat and talk all the way to the front entrance. They might as well be ghosts to you and Fumika. Two awkward nerds, not knowing what to say.

This awkwardness needs to be shattered. Preferably with a verbal sledgehammer.

You opt for a stone.

“Hey, uh, what new projects have you been working on?”

A spark of interest flashes in her eyes. Small, but it’s better than nothing. “Algorithms.” She says.

“Oh…what kinds?”

“For security and other programs. It’s all open-source stuff. I prefer it over proprietary software.”

“Um, I see…”

“You don’t even know what those terms mean, do you?”

“Well…”

“If you’re going to be a programmer, you should at least know that.”

“…”

You walk further. Fumika does the same.

“Is something wrong with your laptop?” You ask.

Her eyes narrow. “Why do you ask?”

“You looked a bit distressed.”

“Nothing is wrong.”

“You sure—”

“I am.” Fumika cuts you off. “Sorry, but I really must be going.”

With that, she pushes through the crowds and disappears out of sight. You are left to scratch your head and groan.

“Man, have I really formed a bond with her? She’s not acting like it.” You wonder. “Then again, that’s how I used to behave in middle school. Maybe I should go and apologize to her later…”

“Yo, Takashi! What are you talking about?”

“Uh, nothing. Nothing, Takauji!”

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>>42898963
>knowing linux shit makes you capable of being a runner

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>>42898963
>Takashi doesn't know open-source vs. proprietary
>In the future

>>42899076
Unforgivable.
I completely forgot about those videos.

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>>42899076
Suspension of disbelief: Broken.

>>42899076
Anon I don't know how to tell you this but there are people today who don't know what double click means, there will always be people like this

>>42899103
What videos?

>>42898963
Oh god, she's the next one, isn't she?

>>42899127
these ones.
[spoilerhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dJu1Jj7VTw]

File: akumachi_kirijo.png (1.14 MB, 1280x720)

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[12:45 pm, 22-Apr-2129 (FRIDAY)]

“…hey.”

You stare at the blonde boy in front of you. Akikazu’s hands are in his pockets and he moves with a low stalk. His characteristic irritated frown is present. The other students give him a wide berth as he stomps down the corridor.

“Akikazu.” You say. “What’s up?”

“…” He doesn’t say anything.

You wave your hand in front of his face. “Anybody home?”

“…I thought we agreed not to talk to each other like this.” He says.

“You’re wrong.” You tell him. “I told you, we’re friends.”

Something resembling a dry chuckle escapes from his mouth. “Heh.” He says. “Whatever.”

“Is something bothering you?” You ask.

“No, it’s nothing.” He says. “Later.”

He leaves.

>Maybe you should hang out with Akikazu after school. Forcibly, if necessary.

The classroom door behind you slides open. Two people move out.

“Hey, Takashi.” Takauji greets. Kanami is next to him, clinging to his shoulder. Takauji is doing his best to not let the extra weight bother him. “Just letting you know that martial arts club is on today. You coming?”

“I haven’t decided yet, sorry.”

“Oh. That’s cool.” Takauji sounds a little downcast. “Hope to see you there, anyway!”

>Maybe you should attend martial arts club after school today. If only to ‘save’ Takauji from Kanami.

[4:00 pm, 22-Apr-2129 (FRIDAY)]

School has finished. What will you do?

>Attend martial arts club. (Lovers S-Link)
>Study in the library. (Increases INTELLIGENCE)
>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)
>Search for Kozue Yusa (Death S-Link)
>Wander around town (Unknown event)
>Return home (Skip to night)
>Custom option.

>>42899178
Wow I sure fucked that up something fierce.

>>42899183
>>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)
bro's before bro's with hoes

>>42899183
>Forcing us to choose like this
Fuck dood.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>42899183
1. Attend martial arts club.
2. Hang out with Akikazu

>>42899183
>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)

>>42899183
>Akikazu

Let's bro it up with golembro.

>>42899183
>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)

>>42899183
>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)
don't suppose we could convince him to come to martial arts club...

>>42899183
>Search for Kozue Yusa (Death S-Link)

>>42899183
>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)

>>42899076
Uh what?

>>42899256
Seems like he might enjoy it but only if we can get him to work through some of his issues.

>>42899170
I hope so.

>>42899183
>>Attend martial arts club. (Lovers S-Link)

>>42899183
>>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)

>>42899183
>Search for Kozue Yusa (Death S-Link)

>>42899183
>Attend martial arts club. (Lovers S-Link)

>>42899183
>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)
>Attend martial arts club.
Drag him to our Martial Arts club. Bond over beating each other up.

>>42899183
>Search for Kozue Yusa (Death S-Link)

>>42899183
>>Search for Kozue Yusa (Death S-Link)
>Attend martial arts club. (Lovers S-Link)
Either is fine

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>>42898963
>How she is holding those books.
She knows what she is doing.

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>>42899430
This. We'll get wrecked, but it'll be worth it.

>>42898963
I bet she is upset because Aether installed itself in her laptop.

>>42899500
!!

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>>42899500
>how the fuck did that piece of shit closed-source garbage find it's way into my laptop
>FUCKING HOW
>tfw we ran into a Richard Stallman of the 22st century

>>42899500
Shit nigga you might be right.

>>42899540
>be a super hacker
>can't remove a malware even by formatting
No wonder she is upset.

>>42899569
How intrusive was it?

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>>42899569

>>42899183
>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)

>>42899183
>Hang out with Akikazu (Hanged Man S-Link)

>>42899591
l-lewd

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>>Takashi: Look for Akikazu

This may prove more difficult than it sounds. Akikazu is a delinquent; a blight on Akumachi-Kirijo’s otherwise perfect record. Types like him scurry into places where hardly anybody goes. They also break open vending machines and devour bags of crisps in a single gulp. The source of these facts comes from a group of middle schools whispering outside the cafeteria. It is as reliable as using wet paper as protective window covering during a heavy thunderstorm.

Anyway, you head to the school roof as your first choice. This proves to be a good idea.

You notice him sitting on a bench, staring into the distance. You proceed to lay your ass down right next to him.

“Hi.” You say.

He turns to glare at you. “What?”

“Want to hang out?” You say. “And before you protest, it’s after school and I don’t care.”

From the looks of it, Akikazu was just about to spout the same excuse as before. More lines about how you shouldn’t talk to him, lest you catch his bad reputation or whatever. In some roundabout, negative way, it’s touching how Akikazu cares, no matter how hard he tries to cover it up. He growls and rolls his eyes.

“Fine. Just don’t bother me.” He snarls.

“That’s not called hanging out, Akikazu.” You say. “Even I know that.”

“Then what are we supposed to do?” He asks.

>Tell me about yourself.
>Want to trade fists?
>What’s the deal with you and the student council president?
>(Say nothing).
>Custom option.

>>42899751
>Wanna trade fists?

WE WILL BOND LIKE TRUE MEN!

>>42899751
>>Want to trade fists?

>>42899751
>Want to trade fists?

>>42899751
>Want to trade fists?

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>>42899751
>What’s the deal with you and the student council president?
>Other
Mention that someone that we know (Fumika) might be the Aether player. This might be our last chance to get her prepared.

>>42899751
>>Custom option.
Arcade punching machine, begin shit talking, move into real conversation from there

>>42899751
>Want to trade fists?
YOU ARE NOT LIVING CORRECTLY

>>42899751
>Want to trade fists?

>>42899751
>Want to trade fists?
how real men become friends

>>42899751
>>Tell me about yourself.

Goddamnit, Save the macho bullshit for at least Link lvl 4 or 5.

Rolled 6 (1d20)

Let's see how hard we get rekt.

>>42899870
You're not living correctly, anon.

>>42899792
Christ, this.

inb4 it reverses or is the worst option

>>42899751
>Tell me about yourself.
You got any hobbies, other than smacking down punks?

>>42899751
>Custom option.
"How'd you get that shitty reputation, anyway? You seem like a pretty cool guy when you aren't being a grump."

>>42899936
+1

>>42899936
Backing.

>>42899751
I couldnt find a way to sell the bikini armor. What do we do?

>>42899751
>Want to trade fists?

>>42899936
>>42899751
this

>>42899936
Backing also

>>42899936
Sounds good. Supporting.

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“Want to trade fists?”

“…What?”

“I’m serious. Maybe.” You say.

Akikazu looks as if you had suddenly sprouted a second head. “What the fuck do you think you’re saying?”

You place your hand beneath your chin. “Well, nee-san and her friends bonded over punching each other in the face and I was wondering—”

“Hold the fuck up.” Akikazu snarls. “Listen Takashi, I appreciate that you’re being friendly and all. And I know you have that…special power of yours. But if we scrap, you’re gonna take a one-way trip to the hospital.”

“…I can take it.”

“I’ve seen you fight, you idiot. I’m stronger than you.”

You persist. “Doesn’t mean I can’t try.”

“Wha—look man, I’m doing this so that my…” Akikazu is visibly struggling with his words, as if trying to untangle a mass of earthworms with only his tongue. He spits on the ground and grimaces out the words. “…AETHER explorer mate or whatever doesn’t end up with a broken nose. And no, Diarahan doesn’t matter. It fucking hurts!”

“…so you do care.”

“Yes! Yes, I do. I care a fraction. That's all. Is that what you came to get me to admit? Well, I’ve gone and done it. Are you satisfied, Takashi Wakui?”

“It wasn’t my intention, but I’ll take it.”

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You and Akikazu sit on the bench, watching the sunset. Birds chirp and flap high into the orange-tinted sky. A voracious and beastly dog barks mad nearby. Shrill, rhythmic tunes float out from a nearby park as old men and women stretch in preparation for their afternoon exercises. You shift in your seat and check the time on your watch. Four-thirty, huh.

“You know, you seem like a pretty cool guy when you’re not being a grump. How’d you get that shitty reputation in the first place?”

“Where to fucking start?” Akikazu laughs, cold and harsh. “I show up late, threaten girls, beat up thugs on the streets. People don’t like me tarnishing this school’s ‘precious’ reputation. It’s disgusting. Oh, and I don’t agree with that Eriko-sama says all the bloody time. Apparently that’s heresy now and I must be punished!”

He cracks his knuckles. “Time-wasters, the lot of them. They can piss off.”

“Sounds like it’s not entirely your fault.” You comment.

“That’s what you get out of my little speech?” Akikazu splutters. “My god, your brain is screwed up, Wakui.”

He leans back and exhales. “Why the hell are you so bent on being my ‘friend’, anyway?”

>Why not? Do I need a reason?
>I think you’re a good person.
>We’re in AETHER together, Akikazu.
>You’re strong.
>Custom option.

>>42900274
>Because.

>>42900274
>Why not? Do I need a reason?

>>42900274
>I think you’re a good person.

>>42900274
>>Why not? Do I need a reason?
>>I think you’re a good person.

>>42900274
>Why not? Do I need a reason?
>I think you’re a good person

>>42900274
>Why not? Do I need a reason?
>I think you’re a good person.

>>42900274
>Why not? Do I need a reason?

>>42900286
Seconding.

>>42900274
That was some REALLY good ramen

>>42900274
>Why not? Do I need a reason?
>I think you’re a good person.
A bad guy wouldn't care to look out for his friends reputation, you do.

>>42900274
>>Custom option.
"Because I know how it feels to constantly be called worthless for being different."

>>42900274
>Custom option.
"Because I know what it's like to be lonely and I can see you feel the same way. Don't try to bullshit me, you want a friend too."

>>42900274
>We’re in AETHER together, Akikazu.
>I think you’re a good person.

>>42900274
>>Why not? Do I need a reason?
>>I think you’re a good person.

>>42900274
>Why not? Do I need a reason?

>>42900274
>Why not? Do I need a reason?
>I think you’re a good person.

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“Why not?” You say. “Do I need a reason?”

“There you go again!” Akikazu shouts. “You keep doing that! You keep giving me retarded answers.”

“It’s not retarded.” You reply, firmly. “Didn’t I tell you, Akikazu? My friends are my friends. It’s as simple as that.”

“That’s complete bullshit.”

“Fine. Second reason. We’re both Void’s Chosen, according to AETHER. We’re supposed to work together. Why not be comrades outside of battle, then?”

No counterargument, apparently. Akikazu throws his hands up into the air and looks to be on the verge of screaming, but stops himself at the last minute. He shakes his head and mutters a series of swear words under his breath. You recognize half of them as foreign ones badly translated into Japanese. You wonder if Akikazu knows what they all mean. You certainly don’t.

You question your next words. They are on the tip of your tongue, begging to be let out. Damn the consequences, it’s time to do it.

“Also, I think you’re a good person.”

“…were you dropped on your head as a kid?” Akikazu seeths. “Why the hell do you think I, of all people, am a good person?”

“A bad guy wouldn’t care about his friends’ reputation.” You respond. “You did.”

“I just didn’t want you or Tachibana being caught up in my business!”

“See what I mean?” You point as his chest. “Besides, I know what it feels like to feel lonely and worthless for being different. I didn’t have a Persona before, remember.”

Akikazu remains silent.

“Don’t bullshit me, Akikazu. You want a friend, too.” You say and smile. “So just stop complaining already, okay? I’m pretty sure Celeste sees you as a friend as well.”

“…I can’t believe you just went on all moral and shit on me.” Akikazu grumbles.

“As I said a while ago, is that a yes?”

“You shouldn’t expect too much out of me, Takashi.” Akikazu says. “Sooner or later, trouble is going to rear its ugly head my way. Don’t come whining and moaning towards me.”

“You worry too much.” You grin. “I won’t.”