Part 45: 6/5-6/7: Eavesdrop City
Part 44: 6/5-6/7: Eavesdrop CityMusic: Beneath the Mask
I heard customers say its gotten pretty dangerous over there. Dont let yourself be a target, got it?
I most certainly am not. I must express my gratitude earnestly.
Youre one of us now, man. Well be counting on you, mkay?
Of course.
And if anything comes up, we wont hesitate to lend a hand.
Thank you. Well then, see you.
Well, there were a lot of ups and downs, but we still pulled off our first job! Yusuke joined the team too, so lets continue reforming society like this!
He has admitted to selling copies of his famous painting Sayuri as the genuine article. Police intend to thoroughly investigate Mr. Madarame for fraud...
Madarame is on TV! This is getting to be major news.
Its Sunday, you know what that means! Maaku gains Charm +1.
I cant take it anymore, man! Guess I gotta change the world myself, buuuddy!
...Partying as hard as I can at the club, mdude! Oh yeeeah!
We all handle these trying times in different ways.
Someone finally exposed Madarame for stealing art. What will happen to the pieces themselves?
Do they even have any value? Sorry, just curious. I used to be really into art. Maybe now my art can live on unsullied Spose I owe the Phantom Thieves for this.
Info has started pouring into the Phan-Site too. Im gonna be a busy bee!
Yeah, it was right at the end of the exhibit. Its obvious that theres some ulterior motive.
They spent so much money on all those ads. The people backing Madarame must be panicking.
Its every man for himself in this world. Its pretty rotten when I think about it.
I even hear theres a bunch a thieves on the loose! Cmon, lemme take ya home.
Youre overreacting. Besides, the Phantom Thieves are on our side.
We havent seen these two before because their conversations havent been terribly relevant or interesting, but theyre engaged in a game-long argument about him wanting her to return home to the countryside.
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 Nagata-cho Oh, Hamiru-kun. Hows your schoolwork? By the way, whats your opinion about our current government? I feel that theyre wrong, so I plan on addressing that during my speech. Id like you to listen to it, so you can give me your honest opinion.
>Help him out
Really? That would be helpful. Well then, lets get to it.
However, the current administration refuses to discuss their plans for the future Can we really accept such an utter lack of transparency!?
So hes just echoing another politicians criticism of the government?
Apparently. Tch, whatever
Music: Suspicion
Stop talking all big, you ex-convict!
Urgh, It seems Ive drawn the ire of the audience once again. So hes claiming those who have made mistakes in the past shouldnt get a second chance? What can I say to that?
Wh-Whats up with this kid?
But that has nothing to do with my arguments! These are things I learned from all my hardships.
Music: Break it Down (Elp Version)
The highlight, though, was your yelling.
Conveying your thoughts with such conviction. I wish I had done that in the past ...OK, that is all for today.
...Ive been wrong this whole time. Even though someone has failed in the past, it doesnt mean that person cant try again. Th-Thats all I wanted to say!
Please wait! Thank you! ...That is all I wanted to say.
Youre a strange one, just like that kid.
I have a bad habit of getting flustered whenever someone calls me No-Good Tora. But you see me as someone of value, so I refuse to cower to criticism in front of you. Today you taught me that I must have more confidence in my arguments.
My way of thinking changes when Im with you. Perhaps its the influence of your youthful sprit. Ah, my apologies. It seems were out of time.
I feel like helping with the speech has served to increase my Charm...
Maaku gains Charm +3.
Good work today. Ill see you again soon.
Anon: i just cant
Anon: What about the pupils?
Anon: they cant catch EVERYONE
Anon: theyre just making threats
And just like that, our percentage doubles.
Anon: Its just a coincidence
Anon: ppl who buy this -_-
Anon: thieves are the bad ones
Anon: good time killer here
Anon: pics or it didnt happen
This games got some good dated internet slang.
Thats a calling card from the Phantom Thieves, right?
The way its written seems pretty legit...
Have they really stolen peoples hearts?
I cant believe the Phantom Thieves actually exist...
Music: Beneath the Mask (Instrumental Version)
The response to Madarames press conference was huge! Everyones talkin about the calling card. Girls are checkin me out today Maybe they cant help but sense my overflowin phantom thief charisma? Oh shit, am I finally startin to be popular with all the fly hon-- ...Oh no!
Maaku takes a moment to thank the universe for preventing Ryuji from speaking the phrase fly honeys in Motherfucking TYOOL (Whatever Year This Is).
Of course there is! My uniform, man! My uniform! Were sposed to switch to summer uniforms today! I knew people were lookin at me Oh, goddammit! I gotta go home and change, so you go on ahead!
Ha, Pallid Fella. This game likes to get cute with the random NPC titles sometimes.
Watching that famous artist cry his eyes out over all the artwork hes stolen The same thing happened to Kamoshida, right? Both got weird calling cards, too If you ask me, the same person is behind all this.
The news this morning said a group called #Millennials are the ones behind the cards. I wonder how they get people to confess. I mean, they cant literally be stealing hearts. ...Blackmail, maybe?
Music: Disquiet
I have nothing to report yet...
Nothing at all? How many students are there who could provoke a teacher?
Ive already narrowed it down. I just cant get any solid evidence.
Thats pretty sad, considering how bad we are at hiding it. Our hideout is in a public, heavily trafficked location, for crying out loud.
*sigh*
You knew, didnt you ? About Mr. Kamoshida sexually harassing students.
The principal looks away.
What will come of you asking that?
This investigation is for a just cause, correct?
I believe I understand how flustered this must be making you. Im sure it was truly shocking for you as student council president to see a peer attempt suicide...
Yes...
We must provide a school environment where all students can feel at ease. That is the most pressing issue we have to tackle at the moment.
So thats your reason behind this investigation on the Phantom Thieves of Hearts? We dont even know if they truly exist. Why are you--
You heard about the incident with that Madarame fellow, I assume?
...They said there was a similar calling card to the one used in Mr. Kamoshidas case.
I wish to believe that this is unrelated to our students.
Yes...
That is where I stand. I suggest you devote your energy to the task at hand, not unnecessary questions.
*nods*
Music: Break it Down (Elp Version)
You mean that guy who was all like, How could I possibly apologize for what Ive done Aaaah...?
Think it was really those phantom thieves? You know, the whole stealing your heart thing.
That Theres no way. But then again it seems too convenient for it all to just be coincidence.
I just started lookin yesterday. No way Im gonna find one that quick.
Oh yeah. I guess thats true. By the way, I decided on the TV station. What about you two?
Huh ? Oh crap, the social studies trip! Ugh, I just wanna ditch it
Youd better go to your school activities. Didnt I tell you not to draw attention to yourselves?
Wouldnt me suddenly turnin into a good student stand out more?
Quit bickering and go.
I heard were gonna get to watch them tape a show! Maybe therell be actresses there!
Oh well. Not like I got anything better to do than waitin for info to come in online. Plus, Morganas right. Showin upll keep the teachers from gettin all suspicious of me. All right, Im gonna head back. (to self) TV, huh Maybe I should get a haircut...
Look at his big dumb idiot grin.
That guy is such an idiot I hope nothing happens...
Music: So Boring
Madarame is the only topic of conversation at my school. And as Im his pupil, most of my peers have chosen to ignore me.
For real? Thats bullshit.
Are you going to be OK?
There is no need to worry. They had already been treating me differently from others as it stood. This is nothing new to me.
OK then...
Great idea!
I will keep myself free. Please tell me if anything comes up.
Music: Beneath the Mask -Rain (Instrumental Version)
Thats a secret.
As funny as this is, its not actually him.
Anyway, here are the details. The girl acting like a queen is Hikari Shimizu. I wonder if its more likely that a girl will turn out like that if she has S as an initial Well, I already posted the warning, so you should take it on when you have the time! Hopefully you dont end up an M!
Morganas so pure and innocent.
Anyway, it seems like shes a worthy target. Lets find time to consult the others at the hideout.
Were not actually going to head into Mementos today, because we need our night period.
You think maybe the Phantom Thieves go to our school? Thatd be exciting, wouldnt it?
Thats great and all, but Im more excited by something else. Our field trip is coming up, and I want to go see the TV station!
Nearly every single person in the game has had their dialogue update, so well be doing a lot of checking on various people today. Now that #Millennials have made their debut, theres a lot of buzz, especially around the school.
I kinda thought they were fake, but maybe they do exist after all Yknow, that logos actually pretty cool. Did he draw that? Is he a fan of theirs? I never wouldve expected it from a stern guy like him
Our names starting to get out there. Im excited to see what happens next!
The other blackboard has updated once more.
What have Sakamoto-kun and Takamaki-san been saying about that shocking Madarame case? O-Oh, um never mind. I was simply curious. I-I should start heading home too. If youll excuse me...
Let me get your opinion on this. What do you think is the Phantom Thieves objective?
Theres a lot of bad guys in the world, so Id like to support the Phantom Thieves too. For the newspaper club, Ill continue to watch for what the Phantom Thieves will do next.
Next, we head over to the guy whos being stalked.
Oh, yeah, when I looked up the Phantom Thieves online, I found this weird blog by a crazy person. Her blogs called Phantom Thieves want to Steal My Boyfriend. She mentions blood storms a lot.
Whoa. She really sounds deranged. I feel bad for her boyfriend, whoever he is.
After that artist, though, those Phantom Thieves might come back to steal Ikesugi-kuns heart! If they come, Ill show them no mercy. Ill make them bleed Itll be a blood storm! *giggle*
Wow! Maybe we know them!
I dunno. Everyone here is so ordinary.
Maybe, but with all the other crazy stuff thats gone on at Shujin, nothing would surprise me now!
With all the attention Ive been getting, Ive got no privacy. You cant possibly understand. But theres no time to relax. On the Phantom Thief fan sites, so many people need saving. The world is filled with villains. Its up to the heroes to get rid of them! Yes, its my destiny...
Youre too nice, Sensei. Who cares about their feelings if theyre bad guys?
By the way, are the Phantom Thieves still big news? Our school doesnt need more bad publicity...
Im really grateful to them for saving me. If they really exist, Id like to cheer them on
Why dont you try posting online on a fan site? You never know, they might be checking those out.
Aww.
Such a disgrace. A famous guy like him, exploiting his own pupil. But I want to know more about the Phantom Thieves. They did the same thing to Kamoshida.
What if they actually went to Shujin? I wonder if theyd join the basketball team.
No thanks. Ive had enough of them balls for a lifetime.
I SEE YOU MAKOTO
Haha, I knew youd say something like that. Maybe you should see if you can join the Phantom Thieves.
Its better that its early, idiot. Theres a lot more high schoolers around this time of day. People are more careful at night, too.
I get you Meaning theres more idiots whod fall for our scams.
That seemed shady. Better not tell anyone about it!
Maaku gains Knowledge +3 and Guts +1.
Music: Beneath the Mask
You dont look half bad. Hard to tell youve got a criminal record.
Aww, thanks Soji.
Shes still stalking me, does that count?
Miss Honor Student must be busy kissing ass somewhere.
You dont have to be so harsh...
What is this about a student council president?
The one at our school has kinda been keeping tabs on us. I think shes suspicious of us.
Are you sure it is not merely a result of Ryujis general misconduct?
Shuddup!
Though to be honest, the three of you most certainly stand out. Do try to be careful.
Ill make sure to keep an eye on Ryuji too.
Why do you gotta single me out ?
The others kinda overshadow you sometimes, but dont forget: Youre famous too.
PersonaProtagonist.txt
Just make sure youre careful, OK?
Theres also reports of a strange letter from a group who call themselves #Millennials. Police are carefully investigating whether this group may have any relation to the case.
Oh, theyre talking about the calling card we sent! And they said our name on TV!
Time to feed our plant. Maaku gains Kindness +2.
Oh, my son! He shtole paintings, s-scammed innashent people. Saying sorry Snot enough! What c-can I dooo ? What do I hafta do sho you fergive meee?
Lets explore all three options here.
Thas too cruel Pleeeash, Im beggin you He usedta be such a good boy Hed draw all the tiiiime, sho many pretty picturrrres He was jus like a potato...
Oh thaaank you You made, me, hish mother, shooo gradeful! How could he steal hish own mee-others painting!? Mee-other. Meeeee-other. Meeeow. Meow, Meow!
*retch* A-Are you serious? Ya leave me no choish. Ill bare my body and sh-sh-soul. My shekshi body! Muh ultra soulll!
I love this guy.
Yeah, I can only watch the news, too. I wonder what else theyre gonna do to make us study harder.
Its so boring. Even if I turn on the TV, all they show is some old guy crying like a baby.
Oh! I made my teacher laugh when I pretended to cry like that old guy. I hope I get extra credit!
Maaku gains Charm +3.
And while hes at it, he ranks up!
Anon: Cmon, more sacrifices!
Anon: news was hilarious tho lol
Anon: ppl rly believe this? lmao
Anon: plz get all the bad guys
Anon: what a joke
Youre in high school, right? I know a good part-time job
They still havent caught whoever sent that calling card?
Im actually a phantom thief. Wanna go grab some coffee?
Did some idiot leak pictures again?
Anon: Whatre they after?
Music: Beneath the Mask (Instrumental Version)
Now for todays Train News. Todays headlines are Calling Card at Madarame Exhibit! The police are evaluating whether this is a true threat or a prank. Scam Outbreak in Shibuya! Students are the primary victims. Organized crime is suspected here.
Students getting scammed? Thats scary You should be careful when you go to Shibuya.
It says theyre looking for information. I heard Principal Kobayakawa put it up.
Please consult the student council president if you have any details.
So we can go to her for anything? Why the student council president though? What does she have to do with Principal Kobayakawa?
I mean, Niijima-san is his favorite. Maybe thats why he asked her to do it.
Music: So Boring
He was someone who represented Japan. They probably trusted him based on his name alone. Indeed, were easily manipulated by the names we see. However, this world is filled with fake names. For instance, this creature, which you know well. Its called the red king crab, but it has a form that a crab should not have. Hamiru-kun, look at this picture. What are red king crabs most biologically close to?
Hehe not bad. Thats correct.
The direction the legs unfold is reversed too. Typically they face forward, but a red kings do not.
Maaku gains Knowledge +1.
Incidentally the tomalley of a crab isnt its brain, as some people say. Its actually the crabs liver and pancreas. As you can see, the world is full of deception.
I saw some kind of paste like that in the fridge at Leblanc but its not often you see real crab meat. Hey, why dont we get sushi for our next celebration?
FUCK IT, IM A PHANTOM THIEF, CHAOS REIGNS SUPREME
Please dont. That may seem like a fun idea for now But what good would come of telling people our identities?
Maybe theyd at least start treating us with some respect.
Well, I can understand why you feel that way...
Thats just how things are now, but if we keep doing stuff like this, that will definitely change.
We simply need to devote ourselves to the cause. Our praise will come later.
What he said! Im sure some people out there will understand.
Ugh, I guess we just gotta act like modest heroes for now
Music: Disquiet
Principal Kobayakawa put that up without my--
Weve already received some anonymous information. I heard some students are getting threatened. Im so scared Please do something.
They have dirt on me, and theyre demanding money. I cant go to the police What should I do ? Isnt this talking about the crimes that have been rumored to be occuring in Shibuya ?
So there are victims even at our school What should we do ?
This isnt the responsibility of the student council. This is frightening for us too Principal Kobayakawa called you in yesterday, right? Did he tell you anything about this?
Well, no Hes out today, but I will ask him tomorrow. Please wait on this for the time being...
If you say so...
...My apologies for the confusion. Dont worry. Ill do something about all of this...
Music: Beneath the Mask -Rain (Instrumental Version)
But first we need a new target. I hope we can find a good one...
Apparently theres a group of burglars terrorizing Shibuya. From what I hear, they only target restaurants and break in after they close for the day. Someone online was asking if it was the work of the Phantom Thieves...
Yeah! You guys are way better than those jerks! Anyway, I heard theyve been running away without leaving even a trace of evidence. Thats all the information I have on them right now Sorry. For now, Ill make a post on the Phan-Site and ask for any more details people might know.
Man, being famous really brings its own unique set of problems But we dont really have any info. Well just have to wait for Mishima to get a more solid lead.
Oh, hey Yusuke. Wanna hang?
By the way do you have any business here?
*chuckle* You must have a wealth of free time if that is your decision. After what happened with Madarame, I have come to realize the two-faced complex nature of mankind. People are difficult to handle. It makes for an interesting theme. That is why I intend on people watching here for quite some time. Please contact me if anything important comes up.
Oh boo, we cant form a Confidant yet. Well, even if we have that request we cant fulfill yet, we should head to Mementos. Why? Well I wont mince words. We need a lot of money coming up. Theres a few massive (and unfortunately, totally unavoidable for the sake of maximum efficiency) expenses coming up, including getting at least one SP Adhesive 3 from Takemi before the next Palace, which is both extremely long and very short on safe rooms. If we use most of the SP items weve stockpiled, we might not need it, but Id prefer not to do that. How much do we need? Ill tell you in the next update. Just know its a lot.
Is that site safe to look at? I wont get a bunch of ads trying to scam me?
Youre worrying too much! Just ignore that stuff.
Makoto is now waiting by the hideout. Maaku thinks nothing of this and never tells anyone that their base of operations is totally compromised, because who gives a shit, I guess.
Were you perhaps going back to the scene of the crime ? U-Ummm, this book is so good. I just cant stop reading it. I hope the next volume comes out soon
I dont know if shes just lying, but I choose to believe that shes not and shes been actually reading and enjoying that book while attempting to stalk us, because its pretty adorable.
Next time, Mementos!