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Chapter 25: 5/6: Phantom Thieves Dot Zone
This update contains content from Parts 22 and 23 of the original LP.
Anon: Thieves should be arrested!
And we’ve (finally) gotten to the point where Phan-Site messages appear during the day-to-day loading screens… but because Royal is a PS4 exclusive, the load times were improved considerably, so the game only displays two messages before this screen disappears instead of four.
Early Morning
Music: Beneath the Mask (Instrumental Version)
Broke-Ass College Student is a little too real for me, game. Ouch.
(Energetic College Student) What about Big Bang Burger? The one on Central Street is holding a contest right now. The Big Bang Challenge or whatever. If you go at night, you can eat for only 500 yen.
I’m hungry *now*, idiot.
Hey, the Big Bang Challenge is available again now. We’ll have to give it a shot sometime.
Early Morning → Morning
Music: So Boring
The gist is, don’t go around talking about the incident. That’s all.
I’m a big fan of referring to a scandal as “The Incident.”
The police are still investigating Mr. Kamoshida, so I can’t say anything myself. As a teacher though, I’m ashamed for not having noticed that a student was suffering like that…
Aww, Kawakami does care.
Loses a few points for the follow-up, though.
Honestly, it still doesn’t feel real. I guess people can have multiple sides to them…
The teachers have it rough, huh…
Oh yeah, I just remembered something I learned about psychology. They say that humans have several different personalities hidden in their subconscious.
Different personalities…?
Oh, to be clear, I’m not talking about multiple personality disorder. These different personalities can be a different gender or a different age from you. I mean, if you think about how gods and monsters in myths were first based on the human image… If you actually saw one of those personalities with your own eyes, it might look like a monster.
This sounds really sketchy…
Quiet, you. I read it on the internet, so it’s gotta be true.
Mm-hmm…
Hm? You all seem more alert than usual.
Did I finally talk about something that interests you?
“Interesting” is one word for it, sure.
Well, I’m just saying what I’ve heard. It feels like I just now understood what I learned long ago.
You listening to this, cat? Write that down WRITE THAT DOWN
Maaku gains Knowledge +1.
Morning → Lunchtime
Music: Break it Down
“I wanna make my friend apologize for not returning the stuff I lent him.” Ugh, deal with that yourself!
Hey, those girls…
(Short-Haired Student) It’s got to be made up. Do you seriously believe they exist?
But look what happened to Kamoshida.
He probably just couldn’t keep hiding it after that girl tried to kill herself.
Yeah, you might be right. I guess there’s no way they really exist.
Most importantly, it seriously sucks that our school is gonna be known for stuff like this!
I wonder if it’ll affect our college entrance…
If we can take care of two or three famous guys, people’ll have to believe we exist.
About that… you haven’t found any “big shots” yet, right? Plus, you two are still under suspicion because of that rumor you threatened Kamoshida…
I see your point. Looks like we’ll be laying low for a bit, then. Still, let’s stay prepared, just in case.
I’ll keep an eye out for info on potential targets.
And I’ll try to dig up some dirt online.
We went and formed the Phantom Thieves group, but we can’t even find a target…
Ryuji, I know you’re keeping your voice down (this time), but this is probably the worst possible place to air that information.
There, there…
I guess sometimes things just don’t go the way we want ‘em to…
Music: Disquiet
Do you wish to see me, Principal Kobayakawa?
Mr. Kamoshida… it’s like he’s a completely different person.
I’m sorry? I don’t follow.
I’ve heard there were some students meddling with him beforehand. I’m simply too busy to look into who these students *are,* you understand. Terribly busy. But if they have anything to do with this…
Are you saying you believe these students to be responsible for Mr. Kamoshida’s personality shift?
I wish to know myself… but again, oh so busy with… the bake sale.
That was last week.
And it was such a success we’re planning another! But I digress! I can’t be looking into student matters… As our student council president, I believe you will be a better fit.
…Does this have anything to do with the talk of Phantom Thieves?
I’d like to know why this incident occurred. It will also allow me to properly handle the police and media.
I see…
Please find whoever is responsible for this or these rumors will never die. You agree, don’t you?
Uhhh…
Of course you do. You’ve been top of your class and an asset to this school for as long as anyone can remember. With my recommendation, you could get into any college you choose, Niijima-san.
Th-Thank you…
But it’s to be expected, isn’t it? Your sister as well has made a name for herself at the Public Prosecutor’s Office…
If something disappointing were to happen here, that wouldn’t reflect very well on your sister… Do you understand?
…Yes.
How wise. It’s no wonder you hold your position. Please begin looking into this at once.
Yes. If you’ll excuse me then.
Yes, it’s about the matter we discussed earlier…
I’m still not really sure why you need a high school principal in on your national murder conspiracy, but I’m honored just to be included! The investigation is already underway…
…… Mhm, of course… Yes, I will get results… I should be able to update you soon… Well then, I must be going. Thank you very much for your time…
*immediate disconnect tone*
*sigh*
Lunchtime → Afternoon
Music: So Boring
I saw them too! They were talking to the teachers!
That change of heart thing’s seriously amazing, huh!?
Hell no!
Heh.
But I mean, haven’t rumors been going around about how you guys threatened Kamoshida?
This world’s Kamoshida shouldn’t know anything about what actually happened to him though.
Still…
We did what was right. Don’t go freaking out over some label.
I guess that’s true…
Man, I really can’t wait to keep living this double life!
Isn’t the double life the universally agreed-upon worst part of being a superhero or Hannah Montana or whatever?
All right, Maaku! We’re gonna be counting on you!
Music: Everyday Days
You! Pay attention! Is that how you listen when someone’s talking to you!?
Ooh… That looked like it hurt.
*snicker* He hit him right in the forehead…
That’s what you get for daydreaming! Kids these days have no respect for their elders.
Good grief… Looks like you need more Proficiency to completely dodge that.
Afternoon → After School
Music: Break it Down (Elp Version)
Have you seen that Phantom Aficianado Website?
My new dad doesn’t let me use the internet. He doesn’t understand it because he’s one million years old.
Oh, well…
I’m the one who started it.
…You guys are the Phantom Thieves, aren’t you?
*sweating* Who?
Don’t worry, I’ll keep it a secret!
Kamoshida used me, and I did some horrible things to you guys. This isn’t much of a way for me to apologize for it… But if there’s anything I can do to help, just let me know!
Again, not a member of that devious #Millennials group.
Oh, did you guys get a new name?
Shit!
That’s… all I needed to say.
Sorry, who are you?
It’s not just Kamoshida… There are tons of evil adults out there. But I’m sure the Phantom Thieves will do something… They can’t let this end after just one target. That’s why I wanted to make a forum where people could post their problems. There are probably a lot of people who have high hopes for the Phantom Thieves’ next move. So I’ve also implemented an anonymous poll on the site.
I wanna work on this forum so eventually it’ll be packed with tons of supportive posts.
I really wanna help you bring justice! Can I, pleasepleaseplease?
Go nuts I guess, because I obviously have nothing to do with this and cannot comment one way or the other.
Yesssss thank you so much!
I sense abundantly high expectations from Mishima…
Music: Interrogation Room
Who was responsible for that fansite of yours? Who reset your router when it was acting up? Who ran your Twitter dot com????
Music: The Spirit
Music: Break it Down (Elp Version)
Geez… It was a little awkward tryin’ to figure out when to walk over here.
Imagining Ryuji and Ann just standing awkwardly in the back corner that whole time, heh.
So that forum is Mishima-kun’s…
Has he figured out our identities?
Even so, I think it’ll be fine. He seemed to be playing it cool.
The least reliable guy we know is privy to our darkest secret? Can’t see a problem with that!
It’ll be fine. This forum may even be useful to us…
We have to keep searching for a new targe—
Music: My Homie
Oh crap! We gotta bear down for midterms!
Idiot.
Cat.
I’ll fight you!
Bring it on!
Music: Tokyo Daylight
Don’t forget to study, though—I’m not getting blamed if your grades start dropping.
Why would that happen in the first place?
Ah, I have plenty of free time available. Time to do precisely one activity and then go home!
But before that, eavesdropping!
(Calm Student) I know. The things he did probably scarred those girls for life.
He kept hitting on Takamaki-san, right? I had the wrong idea about her. I should apologize later…
It looks kinda dumb…
(Inquisitive Girl) I was thinking about heading to Shibuya with my friends to clear my head, but… Do you know if there’s any seasonal goods or specials in Shibuya?
(Foodie Girl) Let’s see. If you’re hanging out with your friends, you should try Big Bang Burger. Their springtime item, Earth Burger, is both healthy and delicious. It’s pretty big, so it’s perfect for sharing. You can find a Big Bang Burger on Central Street.
Big Bang Burger, huh? Sounds good. Thanks, I’ll try it out!
I’m not sure… The police won’t tell me anything. Maybe they don’t expect much from a high school reporter, but I’m trying to do my job seriously. I want to get more info about it since everyone’s so confused about what’s going on…
Some students are taking time off because of the emotional shock. As for the volleyball team… Some members are still sticking with the team, but that doesn’t mean they forgive Mr. Kamoshida.
They just keep telling everyone not to cause any trouble. I get that they’re busy, but… I feel like none of them actually care about us students.
(Arrogant Officer) Don’t worry. We’re awate of your situation. Ah, right. I also want to speak to all the teachers later, so please arrange a time that works for you.
M-Me too? I don’t think I’d be much help to your investigation…
(Handsome Student) But a morning assembly for the whole school? Maybe the “Phantom Thieves of Hearts wer—*shriek*
Huh? What’s wrong?
I-I felt this sudden chill down my spine… Maybe I’m coming down with something?
(Creepy Female Student) *gasp* Oh no! If Ikesugi-kun’s heart gets stolen… I’d… I’ll… I’ll knot him a scarf for his birthday. We’ll be together. I just need to weave in my hair…
Gross.
(Motivated First-Year) I dunno, it’s pretty exciting. Like a TV show—real cops and everything.
You think so, too? I know it’s not right, but I just can’t help it!
High school’s seriously nothing but nonstop drama! I can only imagine what’s gonna happen next…
(Bespectacled Council Member) She looked tired, especially because of the Kamoshida incident. I heard she’s been acting under direct orders by the principal. I wonder what she’s doing.
I don’t know. She hasn’t said anything to me.
I guess she can’t rely on us for some reason. I wish she wouldn’t handle everything alone like that.
Ooh, cop outside the P.E. faculty office.
I apologize if I’ve startled you. I’d appreciate your cooperation.
(Easygoing Basketball Player) So much for the volleyball team’s privileges. Well, the other teams were never a big deal, anyway. But now, we can recruit whoever we want and use the gym anytime. The basketball team’s taking over!
That’s what you think! If anyone’s taking over anything, it’ll be the soccer team!
Heh, you already know, don’t you? My actions have been attracting too much attention lately. It’s no wonder you’ve figured it out… Keep this just between us, okay? No one can know I’m the phantom thief who defeated Kamoshida…
Heh, there’s no need for you to play dumb. My actions have been attracting too much attention lately. It’s no wonder you’ve figured it out… Keep this just between us, okay? No one can know I’m the phantom thief who defeated Kamoshida…
(Kind Faculty Member) Come on… If you did something the police wouldn’t like, you should tell me right away.
Ahaha, I didn’t do anything bad lately! Relax, they just want to investigate Kamoshida.
I wish things around here would quiet down soon. I worry how all this could affect the students.
All this craziness going on is all because the volleyball team—Oh! Oh, I’m sorry…
(Female Volleyball Player) What’s going to happen to us now? They’re not going to get rid of our team, are they?
(Lazy Male Student) *chuckle* I snitched about all sorts of stuff to the police. Kamoshida’s gone too far.
(Refined Male Student) I respected him as a top athlete, but… Ultimately, I guess his character left much to be desired. Well, he brought it on himself. He failed his duty as a teacher and betrayed a lot of trust.
Oh, right, can I ask you something? Have you received any physical punishment, threats, or verbal abuse from Mr. Kamoshida? Even if if it’s something minor, let me know if you happen to know anything at all.
Huh? Hold on, so what you’re saying is that he’s exposed his naked body to you?
Physical punishment, threats, sexual harassment, and even indecent exposure. That fiend… I’m sure we’ll find that he committed even more offenses if we dig around a little more.
Always nice to fuck with the cops.
(Tired-Looking Student) Maybe I’ll study in the library. I feel like I can focus better in there since it’s so quiet.
We’re going to grab this Yakisoba Pan and hold onto it for a while. Just trust me on this one.
(Radio Announcer) We’re collecting opinions via fax about the case of a high school teacher assaulting his students. “I used to be one of his fans back when he was in the Olympics. It’s such a crushing disappointment.”
Even the teachers have hit a new low. This crummy world’s just getting worse and worse as time goes by.
(Talkative Old Man) No one looks where they’re going. Even if they bump into me and I fall, they just ignore me.
The world’s been getting to be a pretty harsh place these days.
(Young-Looking Woman) It’s tough for the victims to talk about it. I’m pretty sure if my boss touched me in a pervy way…
Why don’t you just kick him as hard as you can with those high heels you wear all the time?
That might be a good idea! Luckily, I just bought a new pair of five-inch stillettos for a date.
(Novice Pick-Up Artist) He had it coming, man. There were all sorts of rumors going around back when I went there too.
People without charm or popularity always use force to get their way… Push, pull, and then the smooth follow-up. Without these skills, can you call yourself a man?
It’s his fault I have to live such a shitty life…
…Leave me alone. I was at his beck and call, and this is what I get. It’s over for me now…
Eating away at humankind… The “Sun God” is the only one who can oppose such an evil force!
(Man With Clear Eyes) Ahhh… the power of the Sun God flows through me…!
Yes! YES! This is the promised land! Feel the warmth of the Sun God radiating within you!
Don’t patronize the man, Maaku.
Haha, I’m touched that you’re concerned about me. Don’t worry, I’m used to it. I’ll be just fine. I was living this life before I can even remember. My memory’s a little foggy though. I actually have trouble recalling anything that happens at night… Well, I guess it’s not that big a deal.
(Easygoing Shujin Girl) Huh… I didn’t know you could find out about that kind of stuff on the internet.
What era are you from!? I bet Shujin students are posting about it too. That Kamoshida story is really trending right now.
(Modest Housewife) Oh, no. None of us would be able to tell the good art from the bad.
Well, you’ll never become more cultured if you don’t gain an appreciation for the finer things.
We have enough Charm to take the Rafflesia job now, so we do it.
Now we head back to Ann to continue her Confidant.
What should I do…? Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to at least ask… No, but then…
Lady Ann seems depressed…
U-Um… never mind! It’s nothing!
I should be able to invite her out with my current Kindness.
I’m fine, seriously! Besides, I wouldn’t wanna trouble you…
…Are you sure? You’re so reliable. I guess it wouldn’t be so bad talking to you about this stuff.
All right, let’s go to the diner.
Well, I’m gonna walk around. Let me know when you’re ready to leave.
Why are you passing up this opportunity to hang out with Ann?
Music: Break it Down (Elp Version)
When I visited Shiho in the hospital, she said she was sorry for not telling me about Kamoshida… but it was my fault too for not realizing and being there. So I apologized as well. I was so stupid, too… there’s no way Kamoshida would have cost his team wins by taking her off the lineup if I didn’t sleep with him… but maybe I just doubted her ability.
That’s stupid. Stop getting lost in what-ifs in your own head. What’s done is done.
Still… I was weak and stupid. Remember the last time we talked about this? When I broke down after that phone call from Kamoshida. You were there for me, so I didn’t go… Thanks for helping me.
It was nothing.
Back then, I got tired of all the names people would call me. But I want to be able to take those labels without flinching. Maybe if my heart gets stronger, so will my Persona. And I can use that strength to help people around me.
I can help.
Really? Thanks. I’m feeling stronger already!
Girl Talk is like Punk Talk, but it only works on Shadows that are distinctly female. I suppose Shadows like Angel and Succubus would count there.
Now, for my first heart exercise… no refills on my fountain drink!
Oh god, everyone on this team is an idiot.
We chose options 2, 2, 2, and 2 for that event.
Now I feel like I have a better idea of who I want to be. Also, I’m going to think of how I can strengthen my heart. If I think of anything, I’ll let you know. I hope you’ll join me again next time!
Oh! How about you help me come up with ways to train my heart? Just lemme know when a really good idea hits you, okay? Byeee!
After School → Evening
Music: Alright (Elp Version)
You get to lock up from now on. I can’t keep waiting for you to come home. Don’t start any fires, okay?
*nod*
Music: Beneath the Mask
Finally, we get the full version again.
Oh, and come to think of it, shouldn’t we stop by the airsoft shop and ask about that paper bag?
It begins. We will never escape the paper bag.
You’re the only one who can change yourself. You get what I mean?
His many works fetch extraordinary prices, even overseas. He’s truly a world-renowned artist.
(Panelist) Madarame takes in children with no family as his pupils, giving them a home, right? He’s a saint…
(Innocent Grade Schooler) Even on Saturday? You mean you can’t watch Phoenix Rangers!?
I don’t care about that dumb crap! How long are you gonna keep watching that kids’ stuff?
What’s wrong with it? I think it’s really cool. Feather Chaaaange!
…Okay, I have to admit it—Featherman is cool. That show has history!
Why are you kids outside so late?
Our club’s the best in the woorld! We always go all out! Just back from vacay and ready to paaartay!
(Reserved College Student) Vacay…? This has been going on nonstop since the pledge party… These guys are hardcore.
Don’t you badmouth Tora like that! 
(Elderly Office Worker) Yes, sexual harassment… such deviant behavior. The media is going to have a feeding frenzy.
With the internet, even minor incidents can become sensationalized nowadays.
We should try to avoid a scandal. We don’t want to bring shame to our company.
The runaway-train incident, mysterious psychotic breakdowns, a school with a corrupt teacher… We have yet to discover the truth of it all! The apathy that permeates society is a direct result of negligence by our government and the media.
Hmm, yes, tell me more!
…You’re listening quite attentively. Are you interested in politics?
Are you a student? I’m delighted to captivate the interest of someone your age. …Hmm, I could use the help of a young person, but I can’t hire someone without any experience. I’m sorry about that. However, I’d be happy if you stopped by to hear one of my speeches again. …Well then, that’s all for today. I’m heading to the beef bowl shop…
But I guess he’s looking for someone with more experience. If you could just show him your dedication—Wait… He said he’s going to a beef bowl shop, right? I bet he’s talking about the one on Central Street. What if you worked part-time at the beef bowl shop? Show him what today’s youth can do! …Look, I know it’s a stretch, but a true phantom thief can’t let an opportunity like this slip by!
What do you care? The way I live’s got nothin’ to do with you, kid. In the city, you could get hurt for meddlin’ in someone else’s business, you know? Be careful.
I’m yer boyfriend. I couldn’t leave ya to fend fer yourself while trains derail left and right! I just can’t stop worryin’ about you! I ain’t gonna let this city swallow ya whole!
Stop makin’ such a fuss! You’re embarrassing me!
Wait… Rural Young Man and Adorable Woman were dating the whole time!? I assumed he was being a Nice Guy™ to try to get in her pants for the entirety of the old LP! Oops!
We also apply to Ore no Beko now that we can.
Hey, man! Thanks for giving me the time of day. Everyone avoids me because my Japanese is pretty rough. I’m just trying to promote this bar, y’know? You’re just a kid, though. I can’t let you in. Sorry, man.
(Sullen Office Worker) They act so easygoing, like they don’t have any troubles. They shouldn’t behave like that. Maybe education is the problem. You know, they arrested a teacher for physically abusing students.
Well, that kind of thing was normal back in our day. I guess times have changed.
Heh, scared you. Guess that’s no surprise, given the way I look. I had a life once, you know. I was an art student. Yeah, I was cool and everything.
We’re going to work at the beef bowl place to re-establish Yoshida’s Confidant ASAP.
Music: Break it Down (Elp Version)
Maaku gains Proficiency +2.
Line Changes!!!!!!
During Kawakami’s lecture, the line “Did I say something wrong? ” has become “Did I finally talk about something that interests you?” Completely changes the meaning of that line. Also Morgana’s line “Subconscious personalities… It’s a fascinating topic, and it has a lot to do with us. That teacher’s surprisingly smart, huh?” has been cut altogether.
Also, Morgana’s series of lines after you talk to Yoshida at night for the first time has mostly changed completely, from: “Eating at the beef bowl shop, huh? Pretty humble preferences for a politician. That guy seemed to want some help… He isn’t very popular, but his speech-giving skills might be helpful in the Metaverse. Hey, you should work part-time at the beef bowl shop. If he sees you working hard, maybe he’ll let you help him.” to: “That old man’s speech was impressive… That kind of talk might be useful for negotiations in the Metaverse. But I guess he’s looking for someone with more experience. If you could just show him your dedication—Wait… He said he’s going to a beef bowl shop, right? I bet he’s talking about the one on Central Street. What if you worked part-time at the beef bowl shop? Show him what today’s youth can do! …Look, I know it’s a stretch, but a true phantom thief can’t let an opportunity like this slip by!”