Part 52: 6/17-6/18: A Hate Crime
Part 51: 6/17-6/18: A Hate CrimeMusic: Beneath the Mask (Instrumental Version)
Speaking of murky there havent been any new developments in the phantom thief incidents. If they go so far as using calling cards to get attention, I doubt Madarames case will be the last. What kind of target will they choose next? What do you think?
The Phantom Thieves only target criminals, huh Is that really true? Supposing it is, there are plenty of villains in the world. How do they choose who to go after? ...Oh, sorry. Im getting lost in my head I have to stay on top of any Phantom Thieves activity due to what I said on the air. If you hear any rumors at school, I hope you can let me know.
For real!? We didnt get anything!?
Man, were goin nowhere with this Hey, cant we ask Miss President to change it up?
You mean change our target?
We just gotta show our justice to satisfy her, right? There are tons of shitty adults in this world. Its not like it matters who were goin after. She says this is for the students, but I bet its just so she can go brag about it on college apps.
But that mafias stealing money from kids. We cant just accept that! It doesnt matter who the target came from anymore.
Anns right. We want to give courage to the weak. Isnt this the perfect target to accomplish that goal?
I never thought itd be this noisy if you werent singin Anyways, Im sure well shut Akechi up if we pull this off, but--
Oh? Akechi? I ran into him earlier today, we had a nice chat.
Thats exactly why we should do it.
It all comes down to intel in the end If we dont start finding tips on that front, well never get any further than this
There has to be someone who has what we need.
...Thats right! What about that journalist?
You mean the woman who was staking out Madarames house?
Yusuke has no questions at all about this mysterious woman who was staking out his home.
Oh yeahhh. I completely forgot about her! Didnt she give you her card?
You still have that!?
...This is for a rather major publication.
You think we can trust her?
Theres no other way.
OK, lets contact her!
He says our times up. Should we extend it?
Happy hours over, yeah? Cmon, lets just go.
How wasteful!
Yusuke starts chugging his drink and begins to cough.
Let us know ASAP when she responds! Got it, Maaku?
*nods*
Music: Beneath the Mask -Rain-
The chiefs as sharp as ever But its more like were the ones being dragged into things...
We can hang out with Sojiro today, too. Im gonna let you in on a little secret, though: we cant rank him up for a long-ass time.
The police stated that they are dedicating all their efforts to prevent more victims of the mafia. However, they have failed to make good on that promise, and the publics unease has only grown.
Theyre hurting a lot of people. I really wish we could find some sort of lead.
I dont think my bond with Kawakami will deepen just yet...
Music: Whats Going On?
I feel like my bond with Kawakami will grow stronger soon...
Thank you for your patronage!
Music: Days of Sisters
They were asking if youve made any lifestyle changes recently.
Huh ?
I gave them a suitable enough answer, but is there some kind of issue at school?
No Its nothing. Im sorry to worry you.
I doubt you would do such a thing, but try to avoid wandering around Shibuya late at night. Ive heard stories of girls your age throwing their lives away out there. They got involved in criminal acts and were blackmailed into working at illegal sex establishments...
Thats pretty dark.
Ive heard rumors about that as well. People have been mentioning it at school.
...These arent mere rumors. I know of a few such cases.
...
Well, it should be nothing or you to worry about. Just concentrate on your studies for now.
Dont go out late or youll get blackmailed and forced to work as a prostitute! Well, good night!
Music: So Boring
We only just emailed her the other day. Why are you so hasty?
I dunno. Ive been looking for info, but I cant find a damn thing We only got two weeks left, man. Duh were in a hurry.
To be more precise, its ten days.
We aint gonna have much time, even if we start right after she responds.
Looks like this battle will have to be a quick one then.
We must also consider what we do in case she fails to respond entirely.
Hey, dont jinx this!
I am merely discussing all the possible outcomes.
Aint you nervous about this?
Nervousness will not help us solve anything at this point. Were that the solution to our problem, I would be much quicker to turn to panic.
Wow, hes like some kind of philosopher
I think hes just an idiot...
Music: Disquiet
You said you would keep it a secret, but rumors have started getting out Wait You didnt leak that information, did you!?
Calm down Theyre still targeting you?
Even that delinquent found out. He might try and threaten me too Why is this happening to me ? I cant afford to keep paying...
Ive found some clues regarding your incident. I just need you to wait a bit longer.
Youre really gonna help ? Everyone thinks youre just doing it for a letter of recommendation...
Thats not true. My goal here is to protect the students of this school
Then please please hurry...
Music: Tokyo Daylight
However, do you remember that thread about the group of burglars in Shibuya? It seems the one who posted about his brother is a student at my school. And so after some prodding, I was able to pry a few more details out of him.
Oh, right! I was actually wondering about that. It didnt sound like they had anything to do with the mafia weve been chasing.
Indeed. Now, I was able to ascertain his brothers name Its Kazuya Makigami.
Dude, its freaking crazy that someone involved in that shit goes to your school. Nice going, Yusuke!
And you even found the name of the guy were looking for! That was super awesome!
All we gotta do now is punish him in Mementos. This burglar guy isnt gonna be near as scary as the mafia. Hes just a plain dude, right? Well show him what being a phantom thiefs really about!
It seems we are unanimous then. We can further discuss the details at the hideout.
We have our target! We also have the mafia to deal with too, so make sure the timings right. Anyway, lets all meet up at the hideout when youre ready.
Hey, shouldnt you tell the others about what Mishima told you?
I have no idea what you could possibly be referring to, cat.
Right? Its like hes a prince. Hes the Detective Prince!
Uhh, that title is already occupied, thank you.
I love hearing that suave and soothing voice of his too! I wish he would talk to me like that.
But you know, Hamiru-kun actually debated with Akechi-kun, and he didnt do too badly.
Aww yeah, people are finally treating me with the respect I deser--*trips and splits my head open on a desk*
Dont you think its terrible how he insists that the Phantom Thieves are dangerous?
His prettiness is irrelevant to me! Professional journalists need to be impartial. Is what the Phantom Thieves did that bad? The truth is that people have been saved by them.
Remember that scene we shared with Yusuke a little while back? That let us start hanging out with him.
This may be a good opportunity to deepen my bond with Yusuke...
Maaku, do you have time?
Do you remember how I mentioned my need to understand the heart? Well, I am having a hard time grasping it. How will I be able to reach the truth of pure beauty ? Maaku, what should I paint to capture the contents of the heart?
Hm. The scenery of ones heart Ah, I see ! Mementos! The desire that emanates from that place is the root of humanity! Incredible! You honestly have a unique perspective on things. With that destination in mind, let us make haste!
Music: Suspicion
The same thing which brought forth the beauty of the Sayuri can also create such morbid fabrications But I actually find that aspect to be quite fascinating The heart is akin to an abyss Now, regarding the source of my slump I actually have an idea. In that other dimension, I saw the perversion of Madarames heart At that moment, the art realm I had so much faith in was distorted by greed and unchecked desires. That is when the true ugliness of the world became clear to me And from that point forward, my brush has been stayed by crippling hesitation Does pure beauty truly exist ? And if so, can hands tainted by Madarames depravity capture it ? Considering such intense questions only served to distance me from reality. Doubt filled my mind. I struggled to find a reason to move my brush again And honestly I still have yet to discover a suitable answer.
Oh my god you can just talk forever, cant you?
Please, do not rush me. I only need a little more time Hm. The lingering uncertainty present in this place seems to be sharpening my senses I feel a revelation approaching Hm, yes ! Inspiration has struck ! That must be it ! Such brilliant composition! Ah, my heart races !
Oh shit.
Hmph, how inelegant! You wish to carry out your distorted will, foolish Shadow? I shall cut you down for interrupting my work !
Dont fuck with Yusuke. Lesson learned.
Viscid Rotting Meats
Weve got five Viscid Rotting Meats to take care of, and while they pack more health than normal Slimes, they go down fairly simply to a healthy combo of Mabufu and Yusukes Vicious Strike to score those sweet sweet Technical bonuses.
And we get a Blank Card for our troubles. Keep that in mind going into this next scene.
Music: Mementos
Im glad you were here. You have my thanks. Youre like Theo.
I worry that you may not get what I mean. It was a figure of speech. I was referring to Van Goghs brother, Theo. Van Gogh did not achieve fame in his lifetime, but found an admirer and supporter in his brother.
Well, there arent many who are willing to deal with my eccentricity. By the way, whats in your hand ? A card?
Whenever I see blank paper, I have the urge to draw something on it. ...May I?
*chuckle* Impossible! Good What!? Hrrm A satisfactory result.
My picture turned into a real skill card?
Indeed Maaku. Would you mind helping me further? If I can overcome this slump, I should be able to aid our group like earlierperhaps even more so. I know Why dont we act as the thieves we are and strike a deal?
Yes. You can rely on me.
I can sense Yusukes trust in me...
Music: Interrogation Room
I dont have a clue how these cards were used, but someone proficient in the arts was close to you ...What were you having this person do!?
Music: The Spirit
The Emperor is the arcana of authority and structure, but also excessive control and inflexibility when reversed. It represents the patriarch.
This is very similar to a feature that was in Persona 3 Portable, except this time you actually get to choose the card and it only takes a day. Again, skill cards are a great way to break the game but a more casual player wont need them much, especially due to their relative infrequency in this game.
Ill contact you once its done. Ill see you later.
Music: Suspicion
The journalist responded to me...
This is from that journalist, right? She wants to meet you there now ? Looks like this Crossroads place is in Shinjuku. A meetup in Shinjuku...
Let me see I guess to put it simply, its a nightlife district for adults.
Well, now Im concerned as to why the cat knows what Shinjuku is like.
You should send everyone a message and let them know what youre up to.
That sounds rather dangerous.
Where should we meet up?
Stand by, Ann. Itll be easier to move around with less of us.
My apologies. I dont have the money to take the train there.
My god, Yusuke, how are you still alive?
If Maakus going, I guess theres no need to worry. Well leave it to you then.
Well, I guess thats that. Lets meet up in Shibuya.
Be careful, you two.
I shall be sure to save money for situations like this from now on.
It would be bad for you to stand out. You should change before you go.
Music: Wicked Plan
Huh? No choice. I didnt have the time to go home. People arent gonna notice anyways with this t-shirt over it.
Thats not the issue! Are you both idiots? Im just saying now, I wont be to blame when you get caught by the cops.
Dont worry about it. That place aint so different from Shibuya. Cmon, Ill guide you. If were goin to Shinjuke we should probably hop on the JL. Just get outta this building and then the ticket gate should be on the right. Its go time!
Music: Suspicion
So, we head outside...
...to the JL gate.
Yeah, cant wait to enjoy some of that nice conversation.
Were somehow only getting the tutorial about train fares now.
Stop looking around so much. You look like a tourist.
I-I was just tryin to find that place were lookin for. Crossroads Bars right up ahead. Im sure well get there if we keep goin straight.
Lets head forward, then.
Wait You underage?
Oh? In that case come in for an hour or two!
How did you get caught up in this!? Come on, ignore him!
Further down the street, we are accosted yet again...
Touch all you want, no added fees. We have the cutest girls in town too.
Did you really just ask that?
Just ignore that guy, you idiot. No matter what way you cut it, hes a shady character.
Maybe they got some cool stuff to read. Wanna go check it out a bit?
Yeah, Im sure its full of enlightening material.
You dont have time for that right now. Save it for later. Meeting with that journalist comes first!
Yeah, OK. Well go here some other time.
Aww.
What do you want, cop?
Yup. People mistake us all the time for younger kids though.
Wait a second Ive seen the pattern on those pants before. Maybe it was on the news Oh yeah, it was on that segment about the teacher who was harassing kids! Is that a school uniform !?
Foiled once again by that stylish plaid!
...Shit.
You kids have got to be high schoolers! Come with me!
Shoot! This is why I said uniforms were a bad idea! Lets run!
Hey, it aint our fault we had to deal with that detour! Our schools gettin real famous!
Oh hey, random woman. I wonder why you have a portrait.
In any case, horrible disaster is coming for you! Please let me examine your future further!
What!? Me?
Yes, I suggest you get your fortune told! What I say will surely come to pass!
More of this shit ? Sorry, but were in a hurry. I dont really believe in that stuff anyways.
I see. My apologies. However if you change your mind, Ill be waiting here in this spot at night. May your fortunes be well...
We finally find the place.
Beer, whiskey, wine Looks like nighttime is bar time.
Goin in our uniforms is probably a bad idea We got caught last time too...
I came all the way to Shinjuku and cant even go in ? Fiiine. Ill kill time somewhere nearby Just lemme know when youre done.
Music: Crossroads
How old are ya, boy?
Sorry, Lala-chan. Hes with me.
Go on back there. Ill treat you to some water!
Music: Wicked Plan
Haha, what a surprise. I thought you were joking, yet here you are.
Remember Drunk Yukiko from Persona 4? Well, the rest of this conversation is the same voice actress doing pretty much the exact same voice with a slightly older affect. Its kind of uncanny.
I respect that bravery, so Ill listen to what you have to say. Well, what do you want to know?
Oh? Why that?
Hm Well I do happen to know something about that. I could tell you, but Do you know the Phantom Thieves of Hearts? You know, that case the public has been focused on lately. I was pursuing the issue of people randomly entering into a shut-down state, but Im lacking intel
Wow, that sounds way more important that our dumb shit.
Thats why Im currently looking for new material to write about. So, do you have any info on these Phantom Thieves?
I know a thing or two.
Hm Something like that. Youre a Shujin kid, right? I remember you wearing their uniform the last time we met. I thought maybe you might have some insider knowledge on the Phantom Thieves because of it. Their first incident was that of Kamoshida, you know? Ideally, Id like to get some exclusive coverage from a student who suffered Kamoshidas abuse. I would love an introduction if you know of someone who fits the bill. After all, it seems like handling this matter in the open would be an inconvenience to us both...
Hm, a student who suffered from abuse ...Oh! What about that Mishima guy? He always seems to be on the side of the Phantom Thieves.
Its a deal then. Send me your friends contact info later.
Youd better be thankful. My quick wit is the only reason were getting this far.
...Now that I think about it, those mental shutdowns and the Phantom Thieves both seem supernatural Could they be related ? Or am I just hoping for a coincidence ? Oh, sorry. I have a tendency to talk to myself on occasion. Well then, you cant exactly consider this an upfront payment, but...
I think hes probably the guy youre looking for.
Yes!
You should check him out further if youre curious but Im not responsible for what happens next!
Have fun, kids!
Lala-chan, can I get a refill for this kid? We need to make a toast to our new acquaintance!
Itll be a problem if you stay too long. You should leave right after you finish your water...
Music: Beneath the Mask
Lets meet up with Ryuji.
For real!? Awesome! Anyways, we should meet up ASAP. Ill be in front of the movie theater, so head on over. Its that kinda open area you passed on your way to the bar.
So we just have to go back the way we came, huh? All right, lets go.
Not so loud!
Here we go! Mkay, now we just gotta get some info on the distortion. Once we know that, its Palace time!
Lets try tomorrow. Itll be better when we have the whole team together.
Right. Ill tell everyone to meet up in Shibuya. This is totally crazy though Its a huge catch! Im pumped.
OK, so, this part coming up is just inexcusably bad. Im sorry to say this game has got some ass-backward politics, and as a show of defiance Im not going to make real portraits for the characters involved. Instead, I have replaced their portraits with photoshops from the covers of Chuck Tingle novels. I hope, in some small way, that this does something to abate the terrible affront to decency that follows.
Music: Everyday Days
Gah! Wh-Who are you!?
Gwahahaha! Im the naughty troll of Shinjuku! Im gonna eat you up!
H-Hey, wait Lemme go! Dude, help! You can hear me, cant you!?
Dont look at me like Im some kinda dog in a kennel! Your friend is in serious trouble here!
Hehehe. What an energetic studmuffin. Ill give you all the freebies you could ever desire!
The night is young, and so are you! Lets party it up!
Gaaaaaahhh!
Come back alive...
This has been todays session of Katsura Hashinos LGBT Sensitivity Training. We have a lot of progress to make in the future. That was mercifully brief, at the very least.
Music: Beneath the Mask
You did it! Well then, lets meet up at the hideout tomorrow!
Understood. Ryuji seems to be absent from this conversation. Should we contact him separately?
Im sure hell figure it out when he checks his phone later.
Were pretty much already in Kaneshiros Palace! That was surprisingly easy!
For real!? Youre not pulling my leg, right? Ohya-san...
Looks like my time in the female limelight has finally arrived This is all thanks to you. I feel like starting the Phan-Site has really changed me. Anyway, I can handle this. You introduced me, so Ill make sure I dont embarrass you. And Ill totally let you know if we end up hooking up!
This might be my favorite joke in the game, which makes it all the weirder that it immediately follows the objective worst joke in the game.
Its a fascinating place, dont you think? We should go back sometime.
What, and get attacked by those roving bands of homosexuals? No thank you, sir!
The arrested employee continues to state that he cannot recall ever committing the crime. With no testimony to link to a motivation, the cause remains unclear. Crimes with suspects unable to explain their motives continue to occur in the restaurant industry.
Theres all sorts of incidents going on Arson is pretty scary.
Tomorrows going to be a busy day, so lets get to bed.