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Chapter 69: 6/26-6/27: Nice Shot, Dorkocop
Music: Tokyo Daylight
Makoto’s waiting for us over by the entrance to Shujin, because she’s a NEEEEEEEERD.
I don’t know why Makoto opens this conversation with “That said.” She’s basically referencing a non-existent previous dialogue in this conversation. It’s probably just because this isn’t a school day, which fucked up her dialogue scripting, but whatever.
Do you have business at school today? Are you hoping to study in the library, perhaps?
It seems your studies have paid off. Have you been working hard?
This may be a good opportunity to deepen my bond with her…
There’s something I want to ask you. If it doesn’t get in the way of your studies, that is.
Studies? Pshhhh.
Thank you. Now then, let’s find somewhere better to talk. The courtyard should do. We can go in through the back entrance.
Priestess Rank 1: Part 61
Sure, why not?
Music: Alright (Elp Version)
Well, I’ve been filling my role as both an honor student and student council president ably.
Okay, jeez, I get it, I’m dumb. You don’t need to brag.
…That said, I was unable to truly help in the incidents with Kaneshiro or Suzui-san. I might even have been an impediment to justice in those cases…
You’re giving yourself too much credit. You just weren’t very good at informing on me.
Following the rules didn’t get me very far in those hard times. I’m too narrow-minded, I need to think more openly, like a normal student.
You’ve come to the right place. First step: making you cool. The easiest way is to take up smoking. We’ll start with two packs a day. Don’t worry, we’ll increase that number over time.
I’m not so sure about this… I’ve never seen you smoking, either.
Of course you haven’t, smoking is for morons.
…Anyway, I was referring more to going somewhere I don’t usually visit to broaden my horizons. The best way to learn more about my peers is to do what they do. Where do other students like to go for fun?
I wouldn’t really know, no one likes to invite me anywhere… But, Ryuji does like hanging out at that arcade on Central Street on his days off… Though, Yusuke did almost get arrested recently when he was looking for it, so it’s decently shady… Sounds perfect! Let’s go to the arcade!
All right, if you think it’s a good choice.
Music: What’s Going On?
There are more girls here than I expected.
Hey, what’s this? A game where you point the gun at the screen? How interesting…
Yeah, it’s called RAGE. It’s all the… rage. Ugh.
……
You know, you’re allowed to play if you really want to.
I-If it’s okay with you… Do you think you could teach me?
Makoto, you’ve used a gun before.
Huh!? No way!
Ahhh!
Makoto’s panicked squealing is making people stare. I’m going to pretend I don’t know her…
Oh, so this is how it is.
You were at that for a while. I managed to get in a few rounds of Taiko no Tatsujin while you were screaming and you didn’t even notice.
It was a surprisingly academic experience… for a video game. I might be able to apply some of what I learned here in real battles.
Nice. Meanwhile, I learned the virtues of hitting a drum with two big sticks, so we all gained something from the experience.
I’m glad I came here today. Going somewhere new gave me these ideas… Plus, I think I’m starting to understand how people spend their time. Maybe I can have even more ideas if I do more new things. If you can spare the time, might you continue to help me in the future?
My schedule’s pretty packed, but I’ll see if I can squeeze you in.
Thank you. I’ll try to make myself useful.
I can sense a strong resolve from Makoto…
Music: Interrogation Room
Let’s face the facts: you’re a big ol’ dum-dum who barely knows how to tie his shoes. You clearly weren’t the brains of the operation. No, you must have had someone skilled in planning and analysis to overcome your foes… Didn’t you!?
And she’s the one calling *me* dumb…
Music: The Spirit
Music: What’s Going On?
To tell you the truth, I recently got a report that one of our students was spotted there…
That might have also been me. Sorry.
It was a girl.
Makoto, I’m very pretty.
Anyway, I’d like to go there and investigate. It’s getting late, though. I’ll see you later.
It’s always hard for me to come to places like this on my own, so you’ve been a big help. I’ve had all kinds of new experiences today… and it’s even been a little fun.
Oh, sorry. I didn’t mean to keep you. Careful on your way home. I’ll call you later. See you…
Daytime → Evening
Anon: get off your high horse
Anon: NO! justice ain’t that simple
Anon: they’re up to something
Anon: NO. They piss me off.
Anon: Akechi-kun is right!
Did someone really get kidnapped?
Seriously? That’s horrible…
Apparently you can never shake ‘em off… They said it’s hell.
I hear they get really aggressive…
Music: Beneath the Mask
We will be waiting in front of our door. We expect you to accept this task with enthusiasm.
Unfortunately, our schedule is just jam-packed right now, especially at night, because we’re about to unlock Chihaya and Ohya and Hifumi. We’re not gonna have time for the twins for a good while.
>Are you making fun of me?
It’s an interview with some kid from school. “Boy M tells all: Rampant abuse in the Kamoshida case!”
Oh, Makoto’s an M too… So it’s Miss President, huh? Wait, it says “Boy”! It’s gotta be a dude! Plus, Miss President would never agree to a tabloid interview. It’s prolly fine to leave him be. He ain’t doing us any harm. Seeya later.
I should check the article Ryuji mentioned…
Just as I thought. The author is listed as Ichiko Ohya. …I see. This article might end up being useful for us.
How? Some Calvinball nonsense about cognition?
If the Palace ruler sees it and his cognition of the Phantom Thieves changes… Hey, Maaku. We’d be missing out if we didn’t use this to our advantage.
Yep, I was right, as always.
If we have her paint us in a positive light, public opinion of us will change for the better! You should go try and get her to write more articles about the Phantom Thieves!
(Rebellious Grade Schooler) Yeah, I saw that! They’re so cool! They’re like Featherman, taking on the bad guys like that!
When I said that, my parents got mad at me. They said there’s no way the Phantom Thieves are real.
Parents just don’t get it. All they do is nag and nag, telling us to study all the time.
No, he’s just drunk. Doesn’t he realize that it’s still dangerous around here?
Drunk people really are an issue. This guy, though, is particularly noisy. And the things he says…
Oh, well, this is part of my job, too. At least he isn’t the violent type.
Buuuddy!
(Reserved College Student) Haha, who’re you imitating now? That’s one helluva quote.
The Phantom Thieves! You gotta check ‘em out, bro!
(Earnest Office Worker) Yes, they’re the ones with the “calling card.” I heard they had an altercation with the yakuza.
Even this guy is calling Kaneshiro’s mafia “yakuza”!
They seem to be very popular among young people. Though I don’t know why.
There’s no telling why these days. However, I believe they may be able to build their own business.
The true societal change comes from gainful employment as a small business owner.
(Cat) *curious meow*
Oh, I mean… Excuse me, sir, but do you happen to know who put these dope—damn it! What I mean is, the flyers have this cool mark on them. Are they for a store that’s nearby?
(Angel) The ones who steal hearts? Ah, I wish they’d steal mine…
No! Akechi-kun says they’re dangerous. And he knows what he’s talking about!
You always fall for people too hard, too fast. You’re too clingy! That’s why you keep getting dumped!
(Dream-Chasing Girl) That’s great, but… You see, I was scammed before, and with all that’s happened, I’m a little cautious.
Look, just lemme be your producer. You’ve got loads of talent, you know? I swear I’ll take good care of you.
I really, really do want to be a singer… But can I trust you?
(Tired Housewife) Yeah, he’s fine. My kid never goes too far from home.
Oh. Lucky you… My boy just won’t listen! According to him, anywhere other than Shibuya “isn’t cool enough”!
Kids today… There are plenty of places around here they can hang out.
I hear the Phantom Thieves are gonna target the mafia now? Eh, they’re all a bunch of kids to me. If I took a knife and just stroked ‘em with it, I’m sure they’d run away, screaming. Hahaha!
Because of those Phantom Thieves, there’s a lot more cops runnin’ around this area now. Tch. That friggin’ calling card of theirs is just makin’ life more difficult for me.
The thugs in Shibuya are actin’ up since the Phantom Thieves sent out that calling card of theirs. Aw, hell, it’s not all bad. I’m havin’ a lil bit of fun taking out a few of ‘em… Heh heh.
Time for vegetable potion. Maaku gains Guts +1.
Please know that you can direct your criticism and outrage at me! I, Toranosuke Yoshida, will someday find a way to address your concerns in Nagatcho…
How’s your schoolwork?
Schoolwork…? …Ah, fuck! Knew I forgot something! Well, too late to worry about it now!
Me? That’s… weird.
Let me know if you would like to attend. I’d be delighted if you would consider this as helping with my campaign and join me…
Then I’ll make the call. It’ll be at a hotel nearby.
Sun Rank 6: Part 82
Music: Alleycat
I see…
He also plans for his grandson, who’s also in our party, to take his place…
Unfortunately, this is all beyond me now…
Yoshida…
If you don’t grow big and strong it won’t be any fun to piledrive you into the ground in our wrestling match!
Hold up, I never agreed to—
Weak gimmick, chump! The audience’ll never go for a sadsack little pansy who doesn’t even wanna be in the ring! But we can work on techniques for getting you heat later.
I invited you along because I wanted to ask you something. …What do you think about the Phantom Thieves?
*starts choking on a mouthful of burning hot mashed potatoes* Bwwwuuuh?
I’d like to hear your honest opinion. As a young man, are you for or against them?
I think they’re exactly what we need right now. There’s no way that, for example, their leader felt something wet when he sat down at the beginning of this conversation but it’s been way too long to say anything now so he’s worried people will think he pooped his pants when he eventually stands up. He’s gotta be way too cool for something like that to ever happen.
You have a very adaptable way of thinking.
Thank you, I agree. That’s why I already surreptitiously called Ryuji while you were talking and told him to set a fire in the bathroom to cover my escape.
Most people who want to get into politics are jealous of them.
What about you?
However they managed to change hearts, I respect their belief in crushing evil and saving the weak.
Isn’t that similar to what you advocate?
I can’t deny that. But that’s not why I support them… I bet they’re a group of young people. Young people who have experienced hardship and injustice… They bravely face the societal ills that plague our world without thinking of the consequences.
Yoshida…
Brace, yet pitiful… I suppose.
Uh, okay. Ouch.
So the former Diet member who was disgraced by scandals is going to side with them, huh?
…Is this what you asked me here to speak to me about?
No… The party has decided which candidates it will back in the various electoral zones.
And…?
One of our main candidates will represent this area, according to the party’s election strategy. You have no chance of winning.
…So you’re saying that I should give up my campaign to become a Diet member?
I won’t beat around the bush. Drop out of the election, and become my right-hand man.
Music: Confession/Secret
It won’t be for naught. I’ll put in a motion to have you reinstated as a party member. And I will perform an extensive investigation into your expense misappropriation accusations.
Matsushita…
Wait, just to be clear: you *don’t* think he stole that money? Dude’s never once mentioned being innocent! He just talked around it the whole time! Man, I thought my political mentor was *cool*!
You’d finally be able to clear your name. Think about it.
I still want our wrestling match, after all.
I’m absolutely going to die.
He likely has an ulterior motive. If he felt hopeful, he wouldn’t ask me not to run for the Diet. I expect he’s trying to take advantage of me… That happens a lot in this world.
I know your support has been growing a bit lately, but I’m surprised it’s already large enough that Matsushita would see you as a “spoiler” candidate. Er, no offense.
What would you do at a time like this, Hamiru-kun?
It’s easy to say you should just drop out because you have no chance… But I think that’s wrong. Dropping out now, especially when your support is growing, would be a betrayal of the people you speak for. And if you don’t speak for them, who will? Besides the Phantom Thieves, of course.
Well said, Hamiru-kun. You always know just what to say.
…Thank you for telling me your honest opinion. Don’t worry. I won’t stop giving speeches.
After all, I treasure our conversations and very much wish them to continue.
You have such a fresh outlook on the world.
I feel like my bond with Yoshida is growing deeper…
Let’s finish up for today. Sorry I made you tag along.
Oh, it’s no problem. You can go without me, though. I’m waiting on someone.
Huh?
Oh god! There’s a fire in the bathroom!
Every man for himself!
I saw a kid with bleached hair running out of there! Someone call the cops!
Time to run!
Music: Break it Down (Elp Version)
I’m sure you’ll end up having to face something similar someday, so let me share my thoughts. When people come to you with these negotiations, you need to see what’s really on the table. Do you see the offer as a risk or an opportunity…? You’ll have your own major decisions to make, in time. The most crucial thing is that you don’t lose sight of who you are.
…I let that happen, and look where it got me.
Well then, until next time. Good night.
Anon: Isn’t this a crime?
Not if you don’t fucking snitch!
Early Morning
Music: Beneath the Mask -Rain (Instrumental Version)
Not necessarily. I could be ditching! You don’t know!
I can’t be late today too…
No, I was up very early, shooting a news show. I have much more work in television because of the Phantom Thieves.
…Ah, I can’t keep complaining. Well, let’s both do our best today.
Early Morning → Morning
Music: So Boring
Oh yeah. In Japan, when the rainy season ends, we say that it “opens.” But in English, it’s more common to hear people say the rainy season “comes to a close.” Be careful! Expressions for the weather are totally different depending on what country you’re in. Now then… Mr. Hamiru! Which of these animals is involved in an English idiom about the weather?
Snail weather? Come on. Who would pick that? You’d have to be blind.
That’s right! Raining cats and dogs. “Raining cats and dogs” means it’s pouring rain. The strongest theory for its origin is that the sound of rain resembles that of dogs and cats fighting. Some other European languages describe bad weather as “dog’s weather,” too.
Maaku gains Knowledge +1.
Additionally, in Norwegian they say it’s raining witches, and in Polish they say it’s raining frogs. Each country has its own way of describing heavy rain—and its own metaphorical substitute falling from the sky.
I somehow doubt every country has a separate metaphor.
Oh yeah, over here they say that when a cat washes its face, it rains. I wash my face every day because I like being clean, and that’s not true at all! Oh, uh, but I’m not a cat, of course.
Morning → After School
Music: Beneath the Mask -Rain (Instrumental Version)
Weather very well may have the same effect on Mementos as it has on humans…
Well, you’re not affected because of your bad rep. If you want to ask me about something, go for it.
She’s the ideal honor student. Excellent grades, exemplary conduct, trusted by teachers… She ran for class president and won on her own merit. Well, no one else wants to do her job though.
He’s still highly regarded for his passion for education even though he’s criticized for scandals now. Ever since the incident with Mr. Kamoshida, he’s been working to restore our school’s prestige.
“Passion for education”? Are we talking about the same guy? If it wasn’t clear, I’m referring to the rotund gentleman.
I hear fraud is on the rise, and there’s even rumors of drugs and prostitution… The police can’t do much because they have too little info. Most of the time, the victims stay silent.
Ever since the competition results were announced, the volleyball club seems either happy or depressed. Shujin’s reputation was tarnished after Kamoshida’s scandal, so that must have been hard on them… I heard that honor student is competing in a gymnastics event. I can’t wait to see how she does.
(Motivated First-Year) Yeah, I saw. Their logo is pretty cool. But aren’t the Phantom Thieves like, bad guys? I can’t believe they’re in Shibuya!
That’s what Akechi-kun said—that they’re dangerous. I hope someone puts a stop to them.
We return The Gallant Rogue and gain the Illusory Popess.
The calling card was sent to that criminal organization, but I haven’t thought of any furth— …Oh, no. I’ve said too much. For your own safety, I can’t risk exposing any more top secret info.
You know, an evil criminal group. Didn’t you see the Phantom Thieves’ calling ca— …Oh, no. I’ve said too much. For your own safety, I can’t risk exposing any more top secret info.
I stayed up reading about it, and didn’t get much sleep. I sooo don’t wanna go to practice…
(Intense Soccer Player) What are you doing!? It’s up to us to bring pride to Shujin Academy now that the volleyball team’s been disgraced!
You’re right. The third-years all retired, so I gotta take my role as the captain seriously.
This big scary guy looked like he was panicking while tearing them down. It was hilarious!
(Kind Faculty Member) Is something going to happen again…? Oh, and you guys, try not to go out too late, okay?
Whaaat? It’s fine. Plus, if that calling card is real, things will be safer around here.
Let’s chat with Yusuke, since he’s only at Rank 1.
Meanwhile, I am here to observe the public in an attempt to refresh my mind. Do you need something?
Hah… You must have a wealth of free time if that is your decision.
*chuckle* I hope you do not find it too disturbing. Wait for me at Leblanc. I will bring the painting over there.
Emperor Rank 2: Part 55
Music: What’s Going On?
I would like your honest opinion… if you would.
Well, I am *honestly* extremely impressed that you managed to carry this thing here in the pouring rain without completely destroying it.
Yes, it was quite the challenge, but I will not bore you with the details of that miraculous endeavor. What do you think of the painting, then?
Uhh… This style ain’t exactly my area of expertise, but… fuck, seems pretty good to me, man.
Excellent. Even a complete philistine like yourself can see its majesty. This painting represents my conception of “desire.”
It is the foul charm held deep within the abyss of the heart… To be honest, I believe my ability to capture desire so elegantly is all due to our Mementos foray. I have grown to understand the intricacies of the heart in a way I had once thought impossible…
You’re too confident. I’m now worried people will think this thing sucks shit just to turn this into a tale of hubris before the great fall.
Maaku… I intend on submitting this piece to an upcoming public art exhibition.
Oh, there it is, yep, that’s exactly what’s going to happen, isn’t it?
Nobody has seen the abyss of the heart in such a raw manner before… The discourse will be fascinating. More importantly, it shall be the spark that revitalizes my slumbering art career!
Dude, you need to stop, you’re just making it worse for yourself. Whatever god is up there is about to fucking smite you hardcore.
I hope you will accompany me to its unveiling at the exhibition.
Now *I’ve* been pulled into the orbit of this impending disaster, oh no!!!!
Hm, I’m sure this will be a most sensational experience for those who opt to undergo it. A raw, unbridled look into the depths of the human psyche… And I was the one who was able to bring it to life, all thanks to your assistance.
I’m now revising my earlier estimate, because at this point we’re all getting off easy if the building doesn’t collapse and kill us all.
You have my sincerest gratitude.
Yes, please continue to associate me with this painting, people are gonna need a secondary target for the tomatoes.
I feel like my bond with Yusuke is growing deeper…
Hm… I deeply anticipate the public reaction at the exhibition. But for now I should be going. My apologies for disturbing you. Farewell.
I saw Yusuke off to the station…
I was even able to come up with a new interpretation, thanks to your help. I’m on a roll right now. I shall keep up this momentum and apply it to the Phantom Thieves as well!
Yusuke, I just saw you off, which means you’re probably still on a train. First off, stop yelling about the Phantom Thieves. Second, how are you getting a cell phone signal?
Er, I mean, you’re doing enough already, my man.
Hah… Your very presence amplifies my ambition. What a strange fellow you are. I can hardly wait to hear back about the public exhibition, so I can share the joy with you. I will contact you again later. Expect good news! *hangs up*
Oh jesus fuck my life, this is gonna suck
After School → Evening
Music: Beneath the Mask -Rain-
What’s Kosei like? Is it filled with guys like Yusuke?
I imagine there are a lot of… “different” people there.
Now that you mention it, I have one very interesting classmate. She is a female shogi player, and seemingly quite the skilled one at that.
Are you talking about Hifumi Togo? I remember hearing she’s a student at Kosei. They say she’s the most beautiful shogi player around right now.
>Are shogi players renowned for their beauty? Also, creepy.
Yes, yes, yes, I am into all of this, more info please!
Do you even know anything about shogi?
I do not know much about her. She is not the kind of person to let others close to her.
It sounds like she only focuses on her shogi pursuits. After all, it’s said she is a lone genius…
However, I have heard she is commonly seen at the church over in Kanda.
omw
Yusuke, you idiot! Ryuji, do *not* go harass this girl!
I wasn’t gonna harass—
So, you *weren’t* going to go to Kanda to hit on her?
I can’t even go check her out?
Nope!
Churches are supposed to be holy. Don’t do this Ryuji.
GAH. FINE. UGH.
*sigh* Let’s ignore that idiot. Anyway, a shogi expert, huh? Striking an enemy with but a moment’s inspiration, skillfully strategizing toward victory… Those might actually be good tactics to know for our work as the Phantom Thieves. They said she’s at the church in Kanda, right? We should check it out when you have the time.
There’s been markedly more damage than a typical year, and people fear public safety has worsened. Police are calling for people to be careful, but have yet to enact any effective countermeasures.
That Kaneshiro… He’s really done it now.
Music: Time to Repent
The group may have told Ryuji not to harass Hifumi, but they didn’t say anything about me!
Quick reminder: in the church we can use the confessional to have party members remember old skills, or on Sundays buy special rare items from the priest.
Maybe she’s Hifumi Togo, the one Yusuke mentioned… Why don’t you go ask her?
That gate required Rank 3 Charm.
I’m Hifumi Togo…
I’m doing some research, so… Experimenting with new tactics is best to do alone in a place like this. …Well, I suppose that doesn’t sound terribly plausible to someone who doesn’t play… Don’t mind me; go ahead and pray.
Hifumi Togo seems to take a very tactical approach to playing shogi. I feel like I can learn some tactics for the Phantom Thieves from her shogi expertise. I should ask her if she’ll teach me…
Star Rank 1: Part 62
I need a shogi tutor, and I’m glomming onto you.
Music: Alright (Elp Version)
…Huh? Um, you don’t necessarily have to learn from me, you know. There are other options… such as playing online.
Please, I beg of you. I’ll never get 100% in Yakuza 0 if you don’t help me.
…Sorry, I just can’t. Well then…
I am just going to continue to sit here despite your refusal.
Umm… So… you like shogi?
Uh, sure. Yeah, something like that. I heard about you twenty minutes ago and knew I needed to play like you do.
Like me…?
Uh-oh, are you bad at shogi or something? I knew I should have done more research!
You’re a bit strange… but thank you. Um… Okay, just a quick game then. Twenty seconds per move… If that’s all right with you.
*sweating*
You *do* know how to play, right?
That’s not important.
Music: Wicked Plan
…I’ll start.
I’ve inexplicably managed to get through most of this game just moving pieces randomly without her calling me out for breaking the rules…
…So this is your skill level, huh?
Hey, don’t be mean to me, it’s my first time playi—I mean, uhhh…
The dragon which governs the blue sky has fallen into my hands. How do you intend to survive this?
…By summoning Exodia, the Forbidden One? What the fuck?
Check! …It’s checkmate no matter how you look at it. Please concede.
But look, I can still go, I still got one of the… squiggly guys right there.
Failure to concede when there is no path forward is a sign of great disrespect, punishable by ritual castration.
If you aspire to become a shogi player, I recommend that you take your study of the game to heart.
Mommy, the scary lady hurt my feelings…
*bowing* Thank you for playing… If it’s all right with you, may I request another match sometime.
Wait, really? I sucked out loud, though.
I feel… a gambler’s spirit emanating from you. Which is strange, since your style of play is that of a complete novice…
I’m sorry, I’m sorry, just stop insulting me!
Huh!? Oh, I-I’m sorry…
All I want in exchange for my instruction is for you to become my playing partner. I’d like to have someone to play against to research and test new moves. Is that agreeable?
So in exchange for playing shogi with me, you want me to play shogi with you? Sounds fair, I guess.
Thank you. Then we have a deal.
I’ve made a deal with Hifumi…
Music: Interrogation Room
You must have had a master tactician to help you in your criminal deeds.
Didn’t you, like, *just* ask me this?
What? No, of course not!
You just asked me about the planner. Now you’re asking me about the tactician. Those are pretty similar roles.
No they’re not! They’re… totally distinct!
#Defeated with #Facts and #Logic. That’s another clever ruse I learned from our tactician, you got me.
Music: The Spirit
Music: Alright (Elp Version)
I feel like playing shogi with Hifumi has helped sharpen my Knowledge…
Maaku gains Knowledge +1.
Before you head home, would you like to exchange IDs with me?
Let’s see… Ah, yes, it went through.
