Let's Play: Persona 3 Portable - It's Pokemon For Amateur Psychiatrists!

[Vespe Ratavo]

http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/5867/snap008l.png (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVvoD_ErXUo)
I believe, so strongly, that tomorrow never falls away...it shone in in the moonlight.
It still awaits, it still carries on through its old ways...'till this moment of time.
The words that we spoke to each other, they ring together and make a soft dream.
There is no more darkness, no more tears in the rain
No one hurt...

Hey! You kids like RPGs, right? Do you like RPGs from Japan? Do you like RPGs from Japan where teenagers fight demons by summoning physical manifestations of their psyches? Do you like RPGs where making friends with people may, in fact, be the only way to save the world? Then Persona 3 may be just the thing for you. But I'm gonna play it, so you don't have to.

Q: I'm intrigued by your mad plan, you dashing rogue. Tell me more.
Q: So what is a Persona 3 Portable, anyways?
A: Persona 3 Portable is the PSP remake of the Atlus JRPG Persona 3. It features a number of differences from the original, including the ability to manually control your party members, new difficulty levels, and most importantly, a new character, the female protagonist. Unlike most games, your choice of gender does change the game quite a bit. The FeMC has new Social Links, different music and interfaces, and plot changes from the original male character's story. That's why we'll be playing her.

Q: Wait, why the FeMC? I want to see the dude's story!
A: The male character's story is good. However, it's mostly the same one seen in the console versions, and many good LPs of Persona 3 and Persona 3 FES already exist (such as a personal favorite and the inspiration for this LP, My Life Is A Goddamn Mess (http://lparchive.org/Persona-3/)). On the other hand, I haven't seen any LPs of the girl's story.

Q: Tell me a bit more about the structure of this game.
A: That's not a question, but okay. Persona 3 takes place over the course of a Japanese school year, challenging you to balance your school life with crawling dungeons. I don't want to spoil too much, so that's all I'll say for now. The relevant game mechanics will be explained as they arise.

Q: Aren't JRPGs horribly linear? How do you expect us to interact and take an interest in this LP?
A: Each day is split up into several periods. The important ones are Morning, Afternoon, Evening, and Dark Hour. After school and on holidays, you're free to do whatever you want, be that hanging out with friends, singing karaoke, playing MMOs, or, well, dungeon crawling. The first few days are on auto-pilot, so I'll explain our options when we get there, but what our heroine does in her free time is totally up to you. I'll also be taking input on how to raise and fuse our Personae team (more on that later) and who to use in our party (once we get more than three party members).

Q: Wait a minute. Isn't this that game where Personas are summoned by the characters pretending to shoot themselves?
A: Yes, the Evokers do look like guns. And yes, this game is rated M. It deals with some heavy themes at times, mostly about death. The Personae are based on various mythologies, including major world religions. There is no graphic violence, no explicit sexual themes (a few questionably designed Personae notwithstanding), and the religious themes only extend to the naming and design of Personae, which are not intended to be the "actual" figures they're named after. That said, I believe this game is appropriate for a PG-13 forum that has allowed Let's Plays of games such as Fallout: New Vegas and Dragon Age: Origins. If there ends up being a content problem, I'll be happy to remove the offending material, or remove the Let's Play entirely, should it come to that.

Q: Technical question. How are you getting these screenshots?
A: A PSP with custom firmware and a screen capture plugin (http://www.atmaxplorer.com/2009/07/how-to-capture-screenshots-on-your-psp/). Don't worry, I didn't pirate the game, bought it fair and square.

Q: Sounds good to me! How can we help now?
A: I'll be presenting each update as a post in our character's blog. We need a name and a general personality. Her fanon name is usually Minako Arisato (a minor variation of the male protagonist's semi-canon name Minato Arisato) or Hamuko, and she's generally seen as cheerful and bubbly, due to PINK EVERYWHERE, having more Social Links with her party members, and the general perception of Minato as being an emo kid/hipster. But hey, why be restricted by fanon? The only restrictions are that she is natively Japanese, she is, in fact, a high school student and not an alien/time traveler/heffalump in disguise, and her name is not something like Farmstink Buttlass. Anything else you want to come up with for her is fine too.Oh, and one more thing.

No Spoilers.

I mean it. :smallmad:

Chapter Index
Chapter 1: At Midnight, All The Agents... (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=11698029&postcount=15)
Chapter 2: That Song From Napoleon Dynamite About Going Back To School (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=11739313&postcount=32)
Chapter 3: We Can't Stop Here, This Is Plot Country (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=11772779&postcount=52)
Chapter 4: Bad Moon Rising (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=11781476&postcount=60)
Chapter 5: Clever Chapter Name (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=11836536&postcount=66)
Chapter 5.2: One More! (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=11836558&postcount=67)

[Raistlin1040]

Cheerful and bubbly? In a Let's Play on GitP? BALDERDASH! I suggest her name be Yuki and that she be a loner type who slowly learns how to save the world through the Power Of Friendship.

[Deme]

Yaaaay! I was curious about this game (specifically the female version), but lacked a PSP!

I also like an upbeat protagonist to go with a game that, from what I understand, is kind of on the gloomy side (does that count as a spoiler?). If we wanted more gloomy, we'd look for a story starring Mr. Emo-Hair... Ah, I kid. I'm fine with fanon assumptions if they get the story on the road faster.

[Domochevsky]

Oh my... you're in for a ride with this one.http://i.imgur.com/UwGCn.jpg

[Mr. Moon]

Y'know what, I'm leaning towards a sporty tomgirl. Still cheerful and bubbly, though, and maybe a bit of a closet nerd. And I'll second Yuki as a name. Yuki Hatsune.

[Comet]

A get-things-done kind of girl, from the countryside and raised on oldschool samurai values of diligence and confidence. Hates doing schoolwork, though, because big words make her brain hurt.

[Deme]

Y'know what, I'm leaning towards a sporty tomgirl. Still cheerful and bubbly, though, and maybe a bit of a closet nerd. And I'll second Yuki as a name. Yuki Hatsune.

Actually, I'll throw my vote behind this. It's an interesting-sounding combo, a sporty closet nerd, but it gives me what I want, which is someone with a little bounce to offset the story. I'll also agree on Yuki as a name.

[LordShotGun]

Y'know what, I'm leaning towards a sporty tomgirl. Still cheerful and bubbly, though, and maybe a bit of a closet nerd. And I'll second Yuki as a name. Yuki Hatsune.


No idea what this game is about or its legacy but what the heck I think I will follow it anyway and I put my vote (if we get one) behind this characterization.

[happyturtle]

Since Moon wants a sporty tomgirl, I'm obliged to vote for a girly girl who likes lace and makeup and won't do anything that might break her perfectly manicured nails. =3

[Dusk Eclipse]

I like the idea of an sporty closet geek, and I vote for Yuki Hatsune, I like how it sounds.

[Terraoblivion]

Bubbly, sporty closet nerd sounds good to me and fit neatly with the characterization you'll get from taking the optimal path through social links too! As for name, yeah, I guess Yuki Hatsune is fine. Also, I don't care, I know who I ship her with even if the game doesn't let you. The Hermit social link for those of you who have played the game already.

[Vauron]

Bubbly, sporty closet nerd sounds good to me and fit neatly with the characterization you'll get from taking the optimal path through social links too! As for name, yeah, I guess Yuki Hatsune is fine. Also, I don't care, I know who I ship her with even if the game doesn't let you. The Hermit social link for those of you who have played the game already.

Does FemMC have the same Hermit link as the maleMC? Because, if so, that thought amuses me.

[Terraoblivion]

Nope, she doesn't, though that would have been sufficiently hilarious that I'd totally have supported it too. :smalltongue:

[Inigo Montoya]

Since Moon wants a sporty tomgirl, I'm obliged to vote for a girly girl who likes lace and makeup and won't do anything that might break her perfectly manicured nails. =3

Honestly, I like this a whole lot. Not sure what name though.

[Vespe Ratavo]

Chapter 1: At Midnight, All The Agents...
((Comments from me, Vespe, will be in OOC brackets. And with that, voting is closed. Yuki Hatsune, the happy, sporty closet nerd it is, although I may steal some other aspects from the other proposed characterizations, and of course you'll all still be able to vote on her activities...so without further ado...))

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6071018575_96844c9fe3.jpg
((Let's rock. :smallcool:))


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6184/6071563094_b39363099d.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6196/6071018667_ce931f811d.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6087/6071563202_ee74266321.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6065/6071018781_97cc6b86c5.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6186/6071563536_155fee3a52.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6183/6071563628_19c8e23907.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6071019143_a4e65f0cfe.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6073/6071019259_006946da0e.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6071563960_f0a144dfd9.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6195/6071564046_86fb214f93.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6086/6071564098_9351293880.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6067/6071019913_1c6a6d085b.jpg

April 6, 2009
Current Mood: :smallconfused: Confused
Current Music: Soul Phrase (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVvoD_ErXUo)

Hey everyone! It's me, Eurydice! I figured since I'm moving to a new school, now would be a pretty fitting time to start a new blog, one with a more fitting name than A Journal of Impossible Things (any bets on how many blogs are named that?). I think Daughter of Songs sounds better...I've been practicing my flute a little. I'm improving!

But that's besides the point. I made it to Iwatodai today, and I'm all set up in my dorm! The internet's down right now, though, so I'm posting this on my cell phone. I was hoping to get here earlier, but there was a problem the train schedule, and by the time I got here...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6071564722_d81347e5c6.jpg

It was midnight.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6071020179_05d33cefb7.jpg

There was some kind of problem with the wiring, because the lights went out...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6087/6071020247_11773fa623.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6071564932_d3cafedd30.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6200/6071020377_5c2bc72fae.jpg

And everything looked kind of green in the darkness. There were these...coffins, everywhere. I figured it was some kind of local tradition, or some kind of senior prank on the first years. Real tasteful, guys.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6208/6071020461_aae89027ae.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6192/6071020639_6b1b6a96ac.jpg

I was tired and didn't really feel like experiencing the local flavor right there and then, so I just headed over to the dorm. The lights were off there, too, but that made sense. It was late, they probably figured I was coming the next day.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6207/6071565422_28c34a91f9.jpg

And then...this little boy showed up.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6207/6071020889_147861ca80.jpg

I started to say I was sorry, that the train broke down, and I had my ticket and everything, but he held out a piece of paper.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6062/6071020957_dcda9e3ff5.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6071565708_eeec3aac72.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6191/6071565818_7afb879944.jpg

I figured he was the manager's son, or something, who he asked to give me my paperwork since he was asleep or away...but the paper only said one thing.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6066/6071021199_77f998c48d.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6183/6071021401_b6a630d44c.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6071021471_174044853d.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6070/6071566274_8dc0835516.jpg

I have...no idea what that was about. If they're trying to spook me, then they're certainly doing a good job of it so far. But it gets better, because that's when a crazy girl barged in waving a gun at me.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6088/6071021625_63444b9c6e.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6192/6071021777_92c9c2dab4.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6202/6071566588_8edfb95914.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6071/6071566680_97a944cdcc.jpg


Fortunately, her friend stopped her before anyone got shot. Oh, and they finally turned the lights back on, so that was nice.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6061/6071566778_388b7a6dfe.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6083/6071022169_af336407ec.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6194/6071566960_1a49bbec03.jpg

That would be Mitsuru Kirijo, one of the students here. Mitsuru explained to her friend that I was a transfer student, that it was a last minute decision to assign me here, and that, apparently, I'll be moved to another dorm soon.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6085/6071567542_6c37167472.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6187/6071022929_c2a66db712.jpg

Apparently this dorm isn't "the normal dorm?" It certainly seems small for a dormitory. Maybe it's only for the rich kids, or something. It does look really nice. And...I swear I've heard the name Kirijo before. Maybe they own the place, and it's just for Mitsuru's friends.

They seemed awfully territorial, but I guess I did show up unannounced at one in the morning. And Mitsuru was really nice to me. She introduced me to her friend, too, her name's Yukari Takeba, and she's going to be a junior, like me. She seemed a lot calmer after she knew I wasn't a robber, but...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6207/6071568096_6d4cb048ca.jpg

I had to ask. It's not like they just hand them out on the street in Japan. She started to stammer something about it "being a hobby" before Mitsuru stepped in and told me it was a fake gun for self defense. That makes sense. Certainly scared the hell out of me.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6086/6071024041_bfa153cdfa.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6082/6071024153_f36cd4f3c6.jpg

Well, I don't know if she runs the place or not, but she certainly wears the pants. Even in a skirt? Never mind. Yukari took me up, and she was definitely seeming a lot friendlier now. I asked her about the boy, but she didn't know what I was talking about. I was just about to write everything off as some kind of weird, stress-induced hallucination, but then...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6071569690_496e8814c2.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6067/6071570124_17bb4f3efe.jpg

She said that in just such a way...maybe she can explain all this tomorrow. Anyways, here's a pic of my (temporary) room. Neat, huh? Forgive the shameless Myspace/Facebook arms-length thing, like I said, on my phone.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6196/6071570614_74ed3d3925.jpg

((As a matter of fact, this will be our permanent abode. Persona 3 Portable uses a sort of visual novel style when not in dungeons, as you may have gathered. That little pink dot is us, or rather, our cursor. Those markers can be toggled on or off with R. The door, obviously, allows us to leave to the dorm, which we can't do right now. The mirror reflects our condition, which...can also be checked from the status menu. The desk, calendar, TV, and bed are the important things in here. The calendar lets us check how many days are left until important events, the TV will let us buy things from the home shopping network on Sundays, the desk will let us study and play games, and the bed advances to the next day. Your condition can improve to Great by sleeping in on holidays, or going to bed early. Speaking of which...))

Anyways, just thought I'd give you all a short update, let you know I'm safe and sound. Tomorrow's my first day of school, wish me luck!

- Love, Eurydice

((Sorry for the short update as far as content goes, and the massive update as far as pictures go. Future updates will actually have something besides the intro, and I'll try to summarize more dialogue in text in the future, or copy it exactly. I'd also like your opinion on the formatting.))

[Raistlin1040]

I don't know what to say.
Other than that I love it.

[Moonshadow]

...Maniac? >_> Oh boy. Have fun resetting a lot.

[Terraoblivion]

Definitely a good start, though Maniac sounds like it's bound to get frustrating. I look forward to seeing more, especially once the plot really starts. It should be interesting to see how Yuki deals with that, as well as how those who don't know the game reacts.

[Ogremindes]

Of the 3 versions of P3 I like FES best. Partly because all the new stuff in P3P didn't come with a rebalance, but also from the lack of the animated cut-scene when you first get your persona (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YN5gMe3tqbM&list=FLIRTl5GgtHW4szM4A48r0WQ&index=10) in P3P.

[Deme]

A nice first chapter. I like her so far.

[Vespe Ratavo]

Thanks for commenting, you guys, I know there's not really much to say right now, but every bump makes me happy. :smallbiggrin:

Formatting question. I'm not really sure what most people's "the pictures and original text look nice" to "all these pictures are annoying and use up my bandwidth" ratio is. The important sentences will always be kept in screencaps, but for the rest of them, which of these looks best to you/is the most agreeable to your connection? I...don't actually know how much longer the page takes to load per image. They're all JPGs, apparently around 70-80 KB a piece, according to Firefox.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6086/6071024041_bfa153cdfa.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6082/6071024153_f36cd4f3c6.jpg

or

Mitsuru: It's getting late. You'll find your room on the 3rd floor. Your things should already be there. I suggest you tuck in for the night.

or

Mitsuru said it was getting late and I should etc. etc.
Anyways, next update should be up soon-ish. Coming soon: audience participation, a better grasp on Yuki's character, and actual gameplay (hopefully).

[Tono]

Having the game and played it multiple times, I actually like the third way, with maybe a picture every now and then, but only because I generally already know what it looks like/is happening.

[Deme]

I'd sort of like a combo of one and two: pictures make it more reader-friendly online, and a short summary misses out for those of us who haven't played.

[Terry576]

Personally, mostly because I prefer the snarky LP, I would like it to be like this:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6086/6071024041_bfa153cdfa.jpg

"But I don't wanna go to sleep yet! There's so much I haven't done!"

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6082/6071024153_f36cd4f3c6.jpg

Mitsuru decided to be helpful, telling me which way to go so that I could know how to avoid it!

But that's because I'm sarcastic and silly. :smalltongue:

[Ogremindes]

I'd say a mix of all three. Pics when the portrait expression is important or a new character's portrait is introduced. Second style when the text is important and the third style for the banal stuff.

[happyturtle]

Pic for the first line of dialog, but either pic or text for the rest. Whichever's easiest for you.

Of course snark is always very welcome. Especially Vespe brand snark! :smallbiggrin:

[billtodamax]

I love it! Will be following eagerly.

[Dusk Eclipse]

Though I would love all screenshots (I haven't played the game) I think a combination would work best., some Pictures here and there (mostly important characters and/or dialogue) and some sort of narration in between.

[Terry576]

...You know what the really funny part is?

This thread came out THE DAY I WENT TO BUY P3P.

THE VERY DAY.

And now I am addicted and cannot stop playing.

ohgodhelpme

[tonberrian]

ohgodhelpme

Just fuse up a Persona with all the basic elemental attacks, that'll make the beginning much easier!

Were you expecting me to help you quit?

:smalltongue:

[Nerd-o-rama]

I am going to be watching this closely, if only because I don't have a PSP and want to see all the changes in the FeMC's route. And also because "Eurydice's" narration is hilarious.

As for style, this game is pretty WORDSWORDSWORDS. I'd go for an image to show who's talking, followed by text of the rest of the conversation, optionally followed by snarky narration. Optionally, summarize instead of writing out the text if it gets to be too much - especially when your pungineering exposition fairy shows up.

[Vespe Ratavo]

Chapter 2: That Song From Napoleon Dynamite About Going Back To School
Daughter of Songs
April 7, 2009
Current Mood: Pleased :smallbiggrin:
Current Music: Time (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xm7DcSHH60g) ((This is the school's background music.))

Well, today was my first day at Gekkoukan High. First thoughts? The uniforms are pretty cool, for one. But let's start at the beginning.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6188/6071570866_664e7b9a14.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6190/6091702880_785d302d39.jpg

Yukari took me to school today. I think Mitsuru put her up to it so I wouldn't get lost, and maybe to help us get over our misunderstanding from last night.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6091703004_595726a0b9.jpg


Yukari: "This is my favourite part... when it feels like you're gliding over the sea. Our stop is Port Island Station at the end of the line. From there, we walk. Have you ever heard of Tatsumi Port Island? It's a man-made island. They build our school right in the middle. Oh, look, you can see it now!"

Yep, our school's built on a man-made island. And I'm gonna get to ride a monorail every day. Neat, huh?


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6204/6091703546_f1144b8df3.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6188/6091160405_5367500c31.jpg

I should probably mention, if you haven't noticed by now, that I'm a bit of a compulsive photographer. I never really got over the novelty of taking pictures with my phone, and now that I've got a really nice one with an HD camera, I can't help myself. Plus, it helps me remember things. Conversations, too. Sometimes it weirds people out, but I just tell them I'm a tourist, or a scrapbooker, or a reporter.

Maybe I should see if there's a school newspaper to make that last one true. Oops, off topic.

Yukari: "You should go see your homeroom teacher first."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6186/6091703944_43026c5cc7.jpg

Yukari: "I think they're posted on the bulletin board, but I haven't checked
yet either. Hey..."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6063/6091160947_01db0bb00a.jpg

Yukari: "...See ya later."

I'm sure that didn't sound suspicious to anyone present. Not suspicious at all.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6061/6091704368_0ef936d9b3.jpg

My name wasn't on the list, but I move around a lot, so it happens. I was hoping maybe I'd get out of the usual first-day formalities and go get some ramen, buuuut then I saw this little sticky note, right at the bottom. "Yuki Hatsune, Class F." Which happens to be Yukari's class. Convenient!

There was still a good half hour to waste, so I decided to talk to a couple of people before going to meet my homeroom teacher.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6063/6091161691_acec5f19b8.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6087/6091161823_f9b686236f.jpg

...is it just me, or was that girl hitting on me?

...anyways, then there was this teacher in a samurai helmet talking to a French kid.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6091705098_88080f3e82.jpg

Helmeted Man: "At our school, we encourage our students to think like samurai in order to accomplish great things!"
Foreign Student: "Zat's fantastic! Ze teachings of bushido are as important zen as zey are now!"
Helmeted Man: "Yes, yes, yes! You may not be a native of this land, but the spirit of the samurai flows through you just the same!"

Hope I have his class.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6077/6091705628_b1836c12fb.jpg

Wandering Student: "But I was just in one down the hall...was that just another classroom?"

I know that feel. Everyone else started to look the same around that point, so I went into the office to meet Ms. Toriumi, my composition and homeroom teacher.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6091162849_7981774869.jpg

Ms. Toriumi: "11th grade, correct? Wow, you've lived in a lot of different places...Let's see... In 1999... That was what, ten years ago? Your parents-- *gasp*"

And...she brought up the accident. It's not that I mind, it's just...it's been ten years. Nothing anyone says at this point is really going to help. But everyone who hears about it acts like it happened yesterday, and I'm some poor little orphan child. But I'm used to it. And I'm nothing if not polite.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6061/6091163279_bed228114a.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6190/6091706584_d9e9cd5844.jpg

Ms. Toriumi: "Such enthusiasm! We could use more go-getters like you. Have you seen the classroom assignments? You're in 2-F; that's my class. But first, we need to go to the auditorium. The Welcoming Ceremony
will be starting soon. Follow me."

Our principal is a short man with a kind of goofy face. But I mean that in the nicest possible way. Never did catch his name.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6064/6091707034_ac5050942d.jpg

Principal: As you begin the new school year, I like each of you to remember the proverb, "If a job's worth doing, it's worth doing well." When applied to student life, this means...

I kind of zoned out after I heard "proverb" and "applied to student life." So did everyone else, apparently, because I started hearing whispers about a transfer student who walked to school with Yukari. I'm not sure I liked the inflection they put on that last part. I was about to say something, but another teacher beat me to it.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6071/6091164561_70ace7b287.jpg

Teacher From Another Class: "I believe it's someone in Ms. Toriumi's class..."
Ms Toriumi: "Shhh! Be quiet! You're going to get me in trouble!"

I wonder if that was directed at the teacher or the students.

I know it's kind of stupid to talk so much about my first day at school and then not actually mention school, but it was the same first day, let's-get-to-know-you stuff they do at every school I wanted to gag. I was half-asleep until the bell rang. Then I heard a "s'up dude!?" from behind.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6184/6091164859_dc613a766e.jpg

Junpei Iori: "Me? I'm Junpei Iori. Nice to meet ya. I transferred here when I was in 8th grade. I know how tough it is bein' the new kid...So I thought I'd check up on you, make sure you weren't freaking out on your first day."

I thought he was being honest, but according to Yukari, he hits on all the girls, so now I'm a little skeptical. I still think it was nice of him, though.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6091165009_786e03e7e0.jpg

Yukari: "Did you ever think you might be bothering someone?"
Junpei: "What? But, I was just bein' friendly."
Yukari: "If you say so."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6207/6091165321_6f0ba0eea1.jpg

Yukari: "Funny, huh?"
Junpei: "Um, hello? Did you forget I'm in this class too? C'mon, lemme in on the fun! By the way, do you guys know each other? I heard you two came to school together this morning. A couple of cuties like you, walking side by side... The whole class was buzzing about you."

Hit-On Count: 2
Lesbian Implications Count: 2

Yukari: "Ugh... Could you just cut it out? I hate dealing with rumors like
that. I mean, I'm used to it, but she just got here, you know? Don't you feel bad, spreading rumors like that?... Well, I've gotta go take care of some archery team stuff. Don't try anything funny, you got that, Junpei?"

Junpei: "What is she, your nanny...? Well, just to clear something up, I seriously didn't come over here to hit on you or anything."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6091165757_9a1897e5c9.jpg

Junpei: "No prob! My door's always open. So to speak."

...okay, so he convinced me to let him walk me back to the dorms. But it was in a totally friendly way. And he told me this school has sports clubs for girls, so that was good to know.

Junpei: "Whoa, check out the jocks on their run...Hey, did anyone tell you about the school clubs yet? Girls can join too, so why not do it if you're interested? You'd be joining as a new member, though, so you won't be able to apply for a little while."

...I guess we talked longer than I thought, though, because it was already dark by the time we got back. ((Returning to the dorm automatically makes it Evening. The most important time periods are After School, where you get to do your main activity for the day, and Evening, where you can go shopping. None of that for us, yet. You all have to read about Yuki snooping around the dorm first. Muahaha.))


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6205/6091709106_6fdb21043c.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6071/6091166599_75492bbfd8.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6208/6091709450_99622edb08.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6203/6091166839_3ec66b5c43.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6075/6091709726_951a6bda5e.jpg

Part of me thinks they want me to go to sleep so I don't find out about whatever that weird coffin stuff was last night, but another part of me is snickering in the back and thinking - well, you know.

Lesbian Implications Count: 3

In other news, this is apparently a co-ed dorm. Second floor is for the boys, but it seems there's only one boy here right now.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6198/6091709960_f2a4b308f1.jpg

For that matter, it seems like it's just me, Yukari, Mitsuru, and this "Akihiko..." Anyways, third floor is girls, fourth floor seems to be some kind of conference room (locked)...and...um...there's weird sodas in the vending machines!


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6091167305_3801138faa.jpg

Yeah, that's all I've got. G'night!

- Love, Eurydice

S.E.E.S. Mission Log of Mitsuru Kirijo

22:46: Sanada left the dorm to continue training. Consulted with me on way out.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6185/6091710564_4d98eaa40c.jpg

Mitsuru: "...Hm?"

Confident Student: "Have you seen the newspapers lately?"

Mitsuru: "...I know."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6078/6091710802_aabe2aeae5.jpg
((Green means something is important, and an explanation will show up in the glossary.))

Mitsuru: "I've seen it in the news quite often lately. They say it's due to stress, but..."

Confident Student: "Yeah, right. It has to be THEM. Otherwise, it's not worth my time..."

Mitsuru: "You have a one-track mind... Will you be okay on your own?"

Confident Student: "Don't worry, I'm just getting a little practice."

Mitsuru: "*sigh* This isn't a game, Akihiko..."

I'm worried about him.

End LogSorry if I sound like a broken record, but after the first battle, things will really pick up. For now? This is all super-important exposition and foreshadowing. Even the Lesbian Implications Count. Especially the Lesbian Implications Count.

[Mr. Moon]

Oh my gosh this game.

I've asked this a thousand times, I know, but the main version is available for the PS2, right? I may just have to get it.

Please tell me the French student shows up again. I was laughing so hard. Junpei seems like a pretty cool guy, too. If he's a romance option I vote we take it.

Also, the conversation formatting(? I suppose that's the right term) is much better in this one. Not as image heavy but still shows enough of the game. Great work. =3

[Ogremindes]

I've asked this a thousand times, I know, but the main version is available for the PS2, right? I may just have to get it.

Yep. Get the FES version for PS2. Disregarding The Answer (as well you should, IMO) it has some additional content over the original (and some balance tweaks IIRC).

[tyckspoon]

Yes. If you're buying on PS2, you want to be looking for Persona 3: FES; it's the remake/update/Final Cut/International Edition style re-release that we usually don't get in the US. Doesn't offer the female main character, but just about everything else should be better.

Generally, in a game like this.. if a character is given their own portrait art, you'll be seeing them again. The kind of introductory sequence we just saw is often used to introduce some characters that you'll be wanting to talk to later when you get the chance.

[Terraoblivion]

Is the Lesbian Implications Count going to keep appearing? Because sooner or later the counter will just break from being overloaded. Especially when Yukari and Mitsuru really get going. It would also be joined by a gay implications counter for Akihikiko later.

Also, the format looks good and Yuki is quite an entertaining protagonist.

[Deme]

Heh. This is a pretty good chapter, and I'm glad you've managed to justify the screenshots into the narrative a little.

[Cieyrin]

Just found this and, as I was directed by a friend of mine that I should look more into Persona, this definitely gets me a good look at it. I'll have to see about if I can find some for PS2 sometime soon. Enjoying the LP so far. :smallsmile:

[Vauron]

Out of curiosity, will you note the various portrait-less npc storylines? While I don't recall if it was kept for this version, quite a few of them have their own small plots that progress over the course of the game. Sure, they are not important, but I quite liked them in both FES and P4.

[Terraoblivion]

Hopefully. Many of them are amusing. Especially the girl with an enormous crush on Mitsuru and her crazy ideas about how to act on it and the pair of stalkers. Many of the others aren't too interesting, though.

[Terry576]

Hopefully. Many of them are amusing. Especially the girl with an enormous crush on Mitsuru and her crazy ideas about how to act on it and the pair of stalkers. Many of the others aren't too interesting, though.

There was a dude like that in my playthrough.

He thought because she was standing near him she was TOTALLY INTO HIM.

I love this let's play already, mostly because of the Lesbian Implication Count. Considering that Yukari is pretty much designed to be the Male MC's love interest through plot (implications and such), and I doubt they're going to change all that much, it should be hilarious.

Also, Junpei is also Edward friggin Elric.

I freaking love Junpei.

Now excuse me, I have guns to shoot in my face and a Legion to level up.

[Vespe Ratavo]

Well, I just beat my Male Protag playthrough, and...no spoilers, obviously, but it was pretty cool. In retrospect, maybe I should have beaten that before starting this one, but hindsight is 20/20, and it really wouldn't have gone that much faster. :smalltongue:

As for the LIC (pronounced Ell-Eye-See)...I'd like it to be a recurring thing, especially since I'm planning to snark a lot on what didn't get changed from Minato's route. That's the reason. Really. I'll try and keep track of the most amusing NPCs, as well. The girl with a crush on Mitsuru might break the LIC, though.

Coming next update: Maybe we'll even get to fight a battle! But probably not.

[Terraoblivion]

Everything about Mitsuru will break it. There is a reason why Yukari/Mitsuru is one of the most common ships in the game and that is that they surprisingly closely mirror a lot of archetypes of yuri anime in how they act around each other. Also, Yukari has a tendency to sound pretty tsundere for Mitsuru.

[tonberrian]

Also, Junpei is also Edward friggin Elric.

I freaking love Junpei.

On the other hand, Yukari is Yoko Littner, Yuki from Haruhi, and Etna from Disgaea.

[Nerd-o-rama]

Also, Yukari has a tendency to sound pretty tsundere for Mitsuru.

Yukari is tsundere for the entire planet.

Anyway, looks good so far. I've never minded P3's friggin' four hours of setup before the plot starts. And is it just me or did they give portraits to people who didn't have them before, like.......everyone not involved with the main plot? Or am I just forgetting? I haven't played any version of P3 since I was in college...

[Terraoblivion]

Every plot important character and every s. link used to have portraits. Except for The Hermit of course, she was online and you never saw her after all. However, all the teachers who weren't Toriumi didn't use to have portraits, but they do now to replace the fact that they no longer have 3D models.

And you're right, Yukari is tsundere for everything. She's just extra special tsundere for Mitsuru.

[Tono]

Except for The Hermit of course, she was online and you never saw her after all.


Really? I thought it was the teacher who was the Hermit?

Or am I just completely misremembering?

[Nerd-o-rama]

Really? I thought it was the teacher who was the Hermit?

Or am I just completely misremembering?

To be more specific, you never see Maya. That better?

[Tono]

To be more specific, you never see Maya. That better?

Oh, I was just making sure I was remembering things right, I really wasn't trying to nitpick.

[Nerd-o-rama]

Well, you did remember correctly, I just wanted to answer you without needing to use a spoilerbox.

[Ogremindes]

Oh, BTW Vespe Ratavo, I think you should change the title around, to Let's Play: Persona 3 Portable. It's Pokemon For Amateur Psychiatrists!. It's easy to overlook this thread scanning through the topics even when looking for it, as there's always at least one Pokemon thread around. Well, that's what I found, anyway.

Thank you.

[Vespe Ratavo]

Chapter 3: We Can't Stop Here, This Is Plot Country
Mount Brolympus
April 8, 2009
Current Mood: Pretty psyched! :smallsmile:
Current Music: Mass Destruction (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_Hx8GPR8OM) (This is the male character's battle music. I'd like to imagine that in his absence, Junpei hears this in every battle.)

'Sup guys? Not too much is goin' on right now, but I just felt like flexing the old blogging muscles, you know? Doesn't feel right to leave all my bros hanging.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6091168551_2034886938.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6192/6091168695_f8713ae671.jpg

I heard this really freaky rumor on the way into school today, some poor kid went nuts or something. Too much stress, you know what I mean? It's all homework this and clubs that. Not me, though, the Junpei knows how to stay cool under pressure. :smallcool:


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6061/6091711670_50a8a0dac9.jpg

Ms. Toriumi: "Ugh...why him? I'd rather teach Utsubo Kubota. He became famous as a singer, but he's also produced fine literature. I wonder why it's not in the textbook. Well, I'll just bring Kubota's book next time. ...Hey, Junpei! Were you listening? Who did I say was my favorite author?"


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6201/6091170891_7563b5ae3b.jpg

Speaking of cool, that new student, Yuki? Poor girl's been drooling all over me in class. She can't hardly focus 'cause she can't look away! I had to bail her out when the teacher called her out on it. I mean, I'd do it for anyone, but especially her, am I right? You guys think she likes ramen?


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6091171455_9bac80c887.jpg
((Charm is one of our three non-combat stats, the other two being Academics and Courage. They're mainly used to initiate Social Links, like being more suave than a sandwich. No, really.))

Anyways, I think everyone else got the idea at that point. If I say someone's cool, they're cool, know what I mean?

She insisted I walk her home again. Did I mention she's living in that really ritzy dorm, the one with Mitsuru-senpai and like, two other students? What's the deal with that? I've got to share my room with five other sweaty dudes, while they're probably having underwear pillow fights every night. I mean, that's what I would do.

I think Akihiko-senpai's the only guy there. You guys know him, he's the captain of the boxing team. Lucky jerk. Come to think of it, Mitsuru-senpai is pretty much the best fencer on the team, Yuka-tan is always doing something for the archery club, and Yuki-san...I dunno, she just looks really athletic. Maybe it's some kind of super-elite-sports-champ-only dorm? I oughta join the baseball team or something.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6210/6091171805_c199ed6808.jpg

Shuji Ikutski: "My name is Shuji Ikutsuki. I'm the Chairman of the Board for your school. "Ikutsuki" ...Hard to say, isn't it? That's why I don't like introducing myself. Even I get tongue-tied sometimes...I apologize for the confusion regarding your accommodations. However, it may take a while longer before you receive the proper room assignment. Is there anything you'd like to ask?"

I mean, that must be it, 'cause I don't know why else the school chairman would just drop in and visit like Yuka-tan says he does. He must be groomin' them to represent the school at nationals.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6200/6091171907_8bc8be8e80.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6077/6091714750_172825d29e.jpg

Ikutsuki: "Then, I hope you have a successful school year. Now, if you'll excuse me...You must be tired from all the excitement. You should go to bed early. As they say, "The early bird catches the bookwork"! ... Please forgive the bad pun. *chuckle*"

Yukari: "......You'll get used to his lame jokes."

Anyways, I don't really feel like going back to the dorm quite yet, so maybe I'll swing by the batting cage and practice my swing a little. Who knows, maybe I'll score a transfer, huh? I bet Sanada-senpai needs a hand with all those ladies. Later, bros!

S.E.E.S. Mission Log of Mitsuru Kirijo

22:16: Hatsune turned in for the night, despite repeated queries as to why she could not remain in this dorm. Assured her that her queries would be answered in the morning. Seems to be very audible sleeper. Checked inventory for ear plugs, none found.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6091715018_1a03504af9.jpg

23:41: Ikutski arrived to check on Hatsune.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6091715192_a69e55d5b1.jpg

Ikutsuki: So, how's she doing?

Mitsuru: She went to bed a little while ago. She's asleep now. Mr. Chairman, do you think she's...?

Ikutsuki: Well, let's wait and see for now. ... The Dark Hour is approaching.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6200/6091172499_5030382db5.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6205/6091172621_04f5512c12.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6074/6091715534_d12bfb15c2.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6091172751_aac9bda55d.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6077/6091172903_40bc78f7c4.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6090/6091173097_bbafac4745.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6075/6091715982_840d7695b8.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6091173845_433cb13c25.jpg

Dark Hour: Have decided to forgo timestamps during Dark Hour, due to lack of operable clock, strange chronological behavior, and ease of telling beginning and end. Ikutski gave a refresher briefing on basic terminology, elected to continue mission log instead of listen.

Ikutski: "Hmm, she's still sleeping."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6070/6091716228_fe5ef85cb7.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6091173509_1d20e5c63b.jpg

Yukari: "Then, she must be..."

Ikutsuki: "As you can see, she's retained her human form. She's asleep, but she's definitely experiencing the Dark Hour."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6091716516_d1282f1561.jpg

Ikutski: "Although, she must. ...If she didn't, they would've preyed on her
by now."

Yukari: "Scary..."

Ikutsuki: "In any case, we should continue to monitor her for a few more days."

Mitsuru: "Yes, Sir."

Yukari: "I feel kinda bad, though, spying on her like this..."

Daughter of Songs
April 9, 2009
Current Mood: Sleepy :smallsigh:
Current Music: The Poem for Everyone's Souls (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMOHB5AUygI) ((The background to the Velvet Room.))

I had...this really weird dream last night.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6091173845_433cb13c25.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6089/6091173915_24b7b71434.jpg

I heard a voice calling me Master...

And then a door opened.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6184/6091173969_040ca7090c.jpg

I was in an elevator...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6091174161_2e6704dbd2.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6189/6091174305_35e22476d1.jpg

With a man named Igor.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6189/6091174421_3b3ff083d9.jpg

Igor: "My name is Igor, I am delighted to make your acquaintance. This place exists between dream and reality, mind and matter..."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6081/6091174551_ea700d7149.jpg

He was holding the contract that little boy made me sign...

Igor: "Henceforth, you shall be welcome here in the Velvet Room. You are destined to hone your unique ability, and you will require my help to do so. I only ask one thing in return...

... that you abide by the contract, and assume responsibility for the choices you make. Hold on to this."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6081/6091174787_ece5f5f983.jpg

He gave me a key...

Igor: "There is still one more resident of this room, who unfortunately could not be present for your arrival. But I'll make sure you two are properly introduced. Another time, perhaps. 'Til we meet again..."

...and...the key...is still in my pocket.You know what's really sad? All this is maybe fifteen, twenty minutes of gameplay, less if you just hammer X. And this portrayal takes away the splendid voice acting and replaces it with nothing but occasional snarky narration. The first battle would be here, just to actually get something done, but the post would simply be too long if it was included. Bleh. You can tell this wasn't planned out very well. I hope my own contributions are at least entertaining to read, even though there isn't much to riff on yet.

[Mr. Moon]

:smalleek:
The Dark Hour scene got a lot darker than I had expected it to.

Your narration of Junpei's blog just made me love him even more, though. We are romancing him, and that's final.

[Ogremindes]

We are romancing him, and that's final.

*bites tongue*

[tyckspoon]

Mass Destruction

I love Persona. Almost everything about the game is at least good and often hits excellence. However.. I loathe the opening of this song. Fighting through the entire game and hearing BABYBABYBABYBABYBABYBABYBABY every enemy encounter will do that.

[Ogremindes]

I love Persona. Almost everything about the game is at least good and often hits excellence. However.. I loathe the opening of this song. Fighting through the entire game and hearing BABYBABYBABYBABYBABYBABYBABY every enemy encounter will do that.

I dislike the opening for a different reason. There's a couple of beeping noises in the opening that sound like making selections in the menu. That confused me so much.

[Terry576]

:smalleek:
The Dark Hour scene got a lot darker than I had expected it to.

Your narration of Junpei's blog just made me love him even more, though. We are romancing him, and that's final.

But then Dude Who Is Too Cool For School will die!

DO YOU WANT THAT TO HAPPEN TO DUDE WHO IS TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL?

(even though he replaces the fat kid as a Social Link I still like the fat kid)

[Terraoblivion]

Just a warning, the spoilers I'm writing here are absolutely massive. Don't read them if you haven't played the game yet.

Seriously, I meant that.I turned down the romance on that last event once you finish his S. link and he survived just fine.

Anyway, as awesome as Junpei is, we aren't going to date him. Actually, I vote we don't date any of the guys. We can finish their s. links anyway.

[Terry576]

Well we never mentioned his name.

So nobody knows who The Dude Who Is Too Cool For School is. Unless they've already played P3.

[Vespe Ratavo]

Chapter 4: Bad Moon Rising (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BmEGm-mraE)
Daughter of Songs
April 9, 2009
Current Mood: Bored :smallannoyed:
Current Music: Wiping All Out (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4IyaSb8uVis) ((Is that FeMC's battle music? Why, yes it is. How interesting.))

Ugh. I don't even know why I'm bothering to blog today. I guess it's just to keep my brain from going on auto-pilot.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6202/6091174973_5124c65713.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6091175135_d284ff75a8.jpg
((Junpei loves to slyly inform us about game mechanics like this.))

Frickin' Junpei was reminding me how great sleeping in class feels, and I had Classic Lit that day, with Mr. Ekoda and his droning monotone. I could hardly keep my eyes open.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6069/6091718034_9685f4db76.jpg

Mr. Ekoda: "I'll be teaching you about good old Japan all year. Some people say Classic Lit isn't relevant to everyday life, but oh, how they're wrong! The students, the other teachers...Wrong wrong wrong! Nobody really understands Classic Lit...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6091175831_c5a09fb185.jpg
((This choice comes up a lot, if a school scene isn't a trivia question, it's usually this. Staying awake improves Academics, dozing off makes you feel Great, which improves accuracy and critical hit rates. This is a very good thing. We don't need it quite yet, though.))

That's how it starts, you know. You fall asleep once, and you miss the one essential thing, and it all starts snowballing until you fail the class. Not this time. No sir.

Mr. Ekoda: "Hey...are you all listening to me? Wake up, children! Now open your textbooks. First on our syllabus is 'Ise Monogatari,' the origin of Japanese literature. It's a very interesting story. You youngsters might call it, 'da bomb.' *sigh* I can tell you people are 'zoning out...'"


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6072/6091176557_d0d90c4c3e.jpg

As a matter of fact, it was, 'da bomb.' Yukari dragged me to Paulownia Mall after school.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6182/6091176759_23c4160794.jpg

Yukari: "A lot of Gekkoukan students come here after school. There is a karaoke box and a CDshop. Oh, and a really great cafe, too! There's also a nightclub, but that's kinda not for us yet."

It looked kind of neat, but I don't have any money, so we just walked around a while and went home.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6085/6091719652_906b5ea1e5.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6064/6091177059_f65075865a.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6069/6091720086_6cbc4dbf83.jpg

Yukari: "It'd be great to have somebody like that doing stuff for us, don't you think? I mean, I'm not a good cook, and Mitsuru-senpai just doesn't do things like that...You know, if you're handy around the kitchen, I bet you could really do something with this place!"

I guess Mitsuru and Yukari are finally getting used to me being around, because they gave me permission to stay up a little later and asked me to cook for them respectively. So I guess that's good. Kind of. I've been living off the instant ramen I packed in my suitcase for the last few days, so I guess I'm going to have to be the chef by default.

Bleh. I'm gonna go read for a while, I guess. Night, everyone.

- Love, Eurydice

Daughter of Songs
April 19, 2009
Current Mood: ...
Current Music: ...

...um. I don't even know where the hell to start. I've set this entry to Private until I can figure out who I can even tell about this. For starters, I've been in a coma for ten days.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6112984419_e390edcaec.jpg

Mitsuru: "...The same as last night."

Ikutsuki: "Hmm.. Very interesting. Even those who have the potential tend to be unstable at first......Memory loss...disorientation...But, this subject is rather unique. She hasn't exhibited any of the common symptoms."

Yukari: "But... we're treating her like a guinea pig."

Ikutsuki: "I understand your concern, but it's imperative that we recruit new members. I heard she's in your class... Wouldn't you be more comfortable working with someone from the same grade? A female classmate, at that."

Yukari: "Yeah, I guess. But, still..."

From what I've pieced together...Akihiko was out last night...and something followed him back.

Akihiko: "You're not gonna believe this...! This thing is huge! Unfortunately, I don't have time to talk... It's chasing me... I wanted to let you guys know. I'm almost there."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6088/6113528356_7f2e50bfe2.jpg

Mitsuru: "Mr. Chairman! Let's suspend our observation for now, We'll prepare for battle!"

Ikutsuki: "...R-Right! Be careful!"

He stumbled in injured...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6067/6113528652_a30a40e23c.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6187/6112985041_34311209d6.jpg

Ikutsuki: "It's one of them, Akihiko?"

Akihiko: "Yes, but not an ordinary one--"

And it slammed against the door, shaking the entire wall. That's about when I woke up.

Yukari: "Ahh! What the...!? ...You've gotta be kidding me!"

Mitsuru: "Mr. Chairman, please head for the command room! Takeba, go upstairs and wake her up! Then, escape out the back."

Yukari: "But, what about you two?"

Mitsuru: "We'll stop it here. You led it to us, Akihiko, so I'm afraid you'll have to fight."

Akihiko: "Like I had a choice! What are you waiting for, Yukari? Go!"

Yukari: "I-I'm going!"


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6204/6112985801_683e816848.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6183/6112985911_8d598bb5d6.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6078/6113529810_c5c7d0aac7.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6068/6113529942_8fbdc6531a.jpg

I started to suspect something was up after Yukari handed me a gorram spear.

Mitsuru's Voice: "Takeba, do you read me!?"

Yukari: "Y-Yes! I hear you!"

Mitsuru's Voice: "Be careful! There's more than one enemy! The one we're fighting isn't the one Akihiko saw!"

Yukari: "What!?"


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6090/6112986283_b9804ed8fe.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6083/6112986453_857d00882e.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6113530402_a789d73e76.jpg

She sprinted up the stairs, almost dragging me along. We made it to the rooftop and she slammed the door behind us.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6081/6112986827_f8084782ce.jpg

And that's about all I can actually explain.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6204/6113530812_3cfef127fb.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6113530956_962e31482f.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6112987239_620843ebd1.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6187/6112987349_d0605ecb83.jpg

Mitsuru: "That gigantic Shadow... Just what is it we're dealing with!?"

Akihiko: "...Let's go, Mitsuru!"

Ikutsuki: "Wait!"


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6084/6113531428_c11c593112.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6075/6113531570_83bd836c60.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6083/6112987755_f6beac8239.jpg

Yukari: "Oh yeah...I have to fight...I can summon mine...no problem..."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6196/6113531814_0dfda772bd.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6082/6112988021_5540e123c8.jpg

I guess the best way to say it...I'm sorry if this sounds melodramatic, but...whoever's reading this...let me ask you a question.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6073/6112988097_6a450596e7.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6185/6113532058_d3e6c65097.jpg

If you were staring death in the face...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6206/6113532302_bbf7005cda.jpg

And your only way out...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6067/6113532512_a9980f2ee6.jpg

Was to do something completely suicidal...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6112988707_0299190822.jpg

Yuki: "Per...so...na..."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6186/6112988863_b222be2b5e.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6205/6112989017_b0ce156964.jpg

Could you do it?


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6204/6113533126_00dd54ccc0.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6113533298_c77b0ac7e8.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6206/6112989553_417cb878bc.jpg

Orpheus: "Thou art I... and I art thou..."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6198/6113533716_f0bd45bc67.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6194/6112990007_eba6941e66.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6089/6113534340_a3a52edfc0.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6112990665_bf01e8a860.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6192/6112991273_d51edd27bd.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6196/6113535516_6691e2236c.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6112991773_4ec78e4def.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6196/6113536054_ddd12b4581.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6085/6112992159_62b5629dd3.jpg

...and then you did it again.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6112992295_af74ab1fa4.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6194/6113536548_95dbaf56de.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6072/6113536750_6fb62016b0.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6181/6112992807_61c6015db1.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6087/6112993135_baf550e447.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6185/6112993217_ab7dacf678.jpg


...and you discovered...it felt really, really good.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6187/6113537538_ce48e98ae0.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6075/6112993721_6919300111.jpg

And that was about when I blacked out.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6210/6112994527_62382099f0.jpg

Igor: "You became unconscious after awakening to your "power." I see that it was Orpheus that heeded your calling. That power is called a Persona... It is a manifestation of your psyche."

Yuki: "Persona?"

Igor: "A Persona is a facet of your personality that surfaces as you react to external stimuli...You can think of it as a mask that protects you as you brave many hardships."

Yuki: "A mask?"

Igor: "When you use your Persona ability, you must channel your inner strength. The ability evolves as you develop your Social Links -- your emotional ties with others. The stronger your Social Links, the more powerful your Persona Ability. Please remember that. Now, then... Time marches on in your world. I shouldn't keep you here any longer. Next time we meet, you will come here of your own accord. Until then...Farewell."

And then I woke up. Ten days later. I'll...explain the rest later. I need a moment.

- Love, Eurydice

[Dusk Eclipse]

...:smalleek: holy Carp.... I need to get a PSP and Persona ASAP

[Cieyrin]

Hmm, nice touch that FemMC gets a naginata to start with, as the traditional weapon of female Japanese warriors.

[Terraoblivion]

She doesn't get to choose. She will always use a naginata or a hockey stick. Only weapon class she can use.

And you're right, Dusk. Persona is quite awesome indeed. Though the narration here helps make it awesome in written form too.

[Ogremindes]

If you haven't seen the persona awakening cut-scene from the ps2 versions, watch it on youtube now (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YN5gMe3tqbM). It's the wrong main character, but still awesome.

[Nerd-o-rama]

She doesn't get to choose. She will always use a naginata or a hockey stick. Only weapon class she can use.

For those of you who played the first two versions and are crying sexism at this, note that in this version even the male character is restricted to one weapon class (one-handed swords, which are now distinct from rapiers). I assume this is to save space and make things closer to Persona 4's vastly simpler mechanics.

[Vespe Ratavo]

Chapter 5: Clever Chapter Name
Daughter of Songs
April 22, 2009
Current Mood Excited :smallbiggrin:
Current Music: The Voice Someone Calls (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLWd9KVWENs) ((This is the Tartarus lobby music. What's Tartarus? You'll see.))

Ooh boy, big update today. Let's see, where was I?


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6192/6112996057_6d1fd99c60.jpg

Right, waking up from a Persona-induced coma.

Yukari: "Um, how do you feel?"

Yuki: "Where am I...?"

Yukari: "Thank goodness. You finally came to...Oh, this is Tatsumi Memorial Hospital. It's just a short walk from the station. The doctor couldn't find anything wrong with you. He said you were just exhausted...Um...I'm sorry I couldn't do anything...But, your power... It was amazing."

Apparently the medical diagnosis for Persona-users is "being really freaking tired." I figured sleeping for more than 24 hours straight was a medical problem, but hey, I'm not a doctor. It's kind of like Green Lantern, what with shooting a little arrow feeling like losing a week of sleep. I mean, that's the best metaphor I can find.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6061/6112996861_f44d3a2870.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6194/6112997023_8bcd23a578.jpg

Oh yeah, I guess I should explain what a Persona is. It turns out I can summon magical people who live in my head by pretending to shoot myself. Or...um...hang on, Ikutski-san explains it better than me. Just pretend you understand what I'm talking about until I get to his explanation.

Yukari: "We'll explain everything later. I'm sorry I didn't tell you before...I, uh...I wanted to tell you that..."

And you'll never guess what she brought up next.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6087/6112997319_e742059d3f.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6062/6113541610_c645546306.jpg

The accident. At least she knows what it's like. That helps.

Yukari: "And my mom and I aren't exactly on good terms...You're all alone too, right? To be honest, I already know about your past...But, it didn't seem fair, so I wanted you to know about mine...It was back in '99...There was a big explosion in the area. Supposedly, my dad died in the blast, but nobody really knows what happened...He was working in a lab run by the Kirijo Group."

I knew I'd heard Kirijo somewhere before. The Kirijo Group is only Japan's Microsoft or Apple or whatever megacorp you want to substitute. I must have been derping pretty hard to forget that. For that matter, Yukari and Mitsuru seem awfully cordial, considering Mitsuru's company might be responsible for her dad's death.

Yukari: "So, I'm hoping that if I stick around long enough, I'll find out something. That's why I'm going to Gekkoukan High, and why I was there when this happened to you...Of course, I panicked and wasn't much help...It was my first time fighting them, too. I'm sorry... You wouldn't have to go through all this if I wasn't such a coward..."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6181/6112997771_1cb9b3f1f9.jpg

Yukari: "Really...? But still...And here I am telling you all this the minute you wake up. While I was waiting, I thought to myself, "I've been hiding so many things from her... As soon as she wakes up, I'll tell her the truth." So, thanks for listening. I've been wanting to share that story with someone for a long time...Alright, I'm gonna get going. I'll let the others know you woke up....Oh, and, uh... You don't have to be formal around me or anything."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6187/6112997893_0bf5b56a22.jpg

If saving someone's life from hideous beings from another dimension by means of magical psychic Greek hero powers is all it takes to make friends, I think I'm gonna be really popular here. :smallsmile:


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6112998361_5623aa8ab4.jpg
((There's more to this scene, but it's not that important, I forgot to grab screenshots, and I'm sure as hell not re-playing the entire game to this point to get a script for it.))

I was too pumped from a week of sleep, the revelation that I have frikking magic powers and the pending explanation thereof to pay much attention to school the next day. Junpei was being a pervert or something...

Lesbian Implications Count: 4


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6089/6113542676_8722777f5d.jpg

Mr. Ono: "And that wraps it up for the Stone Age. *sigh* I'm tired of lessons about stones...I'd rather talk about the Sengoku era! Japanese history's not that exciting until then. Though I'm paid to do this, so I gotta...it's tough being an adult. I'll just ask a random question and call it a day. Hmm...hey, Junpei! What was the style of houses in the Jomon period called?"

Junpei: "Uuh...how am I supposed to know about something way back then? Quick, Yuki, what the heck is he talking about!?"


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6090/6113543890_81af792587.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6069/6113544948_f12879c494.jpg

Mr. Ono: "That's correct. Mud huts were built by digging a hole in the ground and supporting the roof....it's no use, I can't get interested. Ugh, I want to get to the age of katanas...everything else is so dull."

And then Junpei didn't know anything about history...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6113545262_46dfb2573f.jpg

And then I got home and the school chairman explained about me being a super hero.

Ikutsuki: "Ah, there you are. I'm glad that you're okay. I wasn't sure what I'd do if anything had happened to you. The reason I asked you here is because I needed to talk to you. Please, have a seat. Oh, before that. I believe I mentioned him earlier, but this is Akihiko."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6080/6113001311_ea796a85f2.jpg

I don't think I'm going to have any problems with living in the same dorm as him.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6080/6113001433_8f390e411c.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6088/6113001569_fe9b6970b4.jpg

Mitsuru: "Do you remember the night you came here? You had to have noticed the signs...The streetlights went out... Nothing was working... There were coffins everywhere...Didn't it feel like you were in a different time...? That's the Dark Hour -- a time period hidden between one day and the next."

Ikutski: "I guess it's more like something people aren't aware of. But, the Dark Hour does exist. It occurs each night at midnight. I'll happen tonight, and every night to come."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6084/6113002457_5e33daeca9.jpg

Akihiko: "But, that's not what makes the Dark Hour so interesting...You saw those creatures. We call them "Shadows." They only appear during the Dark Hour, and attack anyone not in a coffin. It's our job to defeat them...Sounds exciting, huh?"

Mitsuru: "Akihiko! Why are you always like that? You just got hurt the other day!"

Ikutsuki: "Now, now. He does his work well. Long story short..."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6113546822_1c56aeea8a.jpg

Ikutski: "On paper, we're classified as a school club. But in reality, this group is dedicated to defeating the Shadows. Mitsuru is the leader. I'm the club advisor."

Mitsuru: "A Shadow feeds on the mind of it's prey; the victim becomes a living corpse. They're responsible for most of the incidents on the news, if not all of them."

Yuki: "How do you fight them?"

Ikustuki: "Although rare, there are those who can function during the Dark
Hour. Some may even awaken to a power that enables them to fight the
Shadows. That's "Persona" -- the power you used the other night. The Shadows can only be defeated by Persona-users. Which means, it's all up to you guys."

Yuki: "I see."

Ikustuki: "I'm glad you're quick to understand."

Right about then, Mitsuru opened the suitcase on the table. Inside was an Evoker, just for me.

I know that was a big textdump, so let's recap. There's a 25th hour of the day inhabited by coffins and monsters called Shadows, who prey on anyone who isn't locked up in their coffin. I can summon a mythological hero who lives inside my head to beat these Shadows with a lute.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6068/6113004953_c401ef984f.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6069/6113005113_5f4537a463.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6081/6113005263_2723b9b131.jpg

And in case you haven't gathered it already, I'm really, really excited about it. How could I refuse?

Yukari: "*sigh* I was afraid you'd say no...Welcome aboard!"

Ikustuki: "Thank you so much. I'm really glad. Oh, I almost forgot... About your room assignment...Why don't you just stay here, in your current room? I don't know what the hold up is, but I guess it worked out in the end. *chuckles*"

Yukari: "Holdup? But, wasn't that--Oh, never mind..."

The lights suddenly seemed to dim, and the others stood still. I heard a voice in my head, like when Orpheus first awoke...and I saw a floating tarot card.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6191/6113006011_04b23186a0.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6194/6113006127_18d29af197.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6090/6113550044_c432ff9640.jpg

I like the sound of "creating." Maybe I'll get to have more than one Persona? That would be cool. I almost mentioned Igor and the Velvet Room, but I figured if the others knew about him, that would be the first thing they mentioned, same as the little boy and the contract.

...maybe I'm special. I think I'll just keep it to myself for now. :smallbiggrin:


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6080/6113551110_4fd469451d.jpg

Speaking of the little boy and the contract, he showed up again that night. I might have been more worried about him breaking in my room if I hadn't learned that magic is an actual thing that exists. It was the Dark Hour, to boot, so it didn't faze me too much.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6089/6113551348_e95a288e6a.jpg

Not even the ambiguous "I'm always with you." Maybe one of my Personas is a little boy in prisoner clothes. It's not that much weirder than a robotic bard.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6075/6113007617_a944c15b81.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6080/6113007735_e83f7aeb92.jpg

Him telling me about "the end" was a bit unnerving, though. Still, it was very nice of him, and I told him so. I'd rather know about the end of the world than not. I think.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6061/6113007949_b75c10f116.jpg

Mysterious Boy: "But you're welcome. That... is what I'm supposed to say, right? ...I don't really know what this "end" is about, either. Oh, looks like you've awakened to your power...and an unusual power it is. A power that takes many forms, yet is bound by none...It may prove to be your salvation, depending on where you end up. Do you remember when we first met? I expect you to honor your commitment. I'll be watching you, even if you forget about me... Okay then, see you later."

And then he vanished.



http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6067/6113553014_aed830cddc.jpg

Yukari always has to say the most suggestive things whenever we get to school in the morning. But apparently Akihiko's rib got hurt fighting that thing, and Yukari's glad she doesn't have to work alone with Mitsuru. Speaking of Mitsuru...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6202/6113010077_0f11a989ce.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6181/6113553936_92ae20a284.jpg

Mitsuru: "Come to the lounge when you get back to the dorm. I have something to tell everyone. I'll save the details for later. See you there."

And then she ran off. The whole thing took about five seconds, which I mentioned.

Yukari: "She's probably busy with things like Student Council, unlike us."

Junpei: "Whoa, Yuka-tan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yucatan)! Do I sense some hostility?"

Junpei was eavesdropping, of course.

Yukari: "Well, it's not that I don't like her... She's just...N-Never mind. Let's go."

"B-baka senpai, it's n-not like I l-like you or anything." :smalltongue:


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6206/6113554852_a3154dfd54.jpg

It's like I'm really living in a bad yuri manga.

Yukari: "Oh, I'm talking about Mitsuru-senpai...Why's Junpei always have to talk about stuff that isn't any of his business, huh!? Plus, he says it all in the creepiest, most perverted way. He's like the poster boy for sexual harassment. You know, last year he..."

And...well. The rest of our conversation wasn't really fit for reproduction. But Junpei? If you're reading this, I know about the wombat thing. And I'd really like to hear you explain it sometime.

[Vespe Ratavo]

Chapter 5.2: One More!

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6090/6132089416_324425d758.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6074/6132089490_6ce16622dc.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6201/6131536401_7ba9bf4d8f.jpg

And of course, who should show up but Junpei? Apparently, he'll even manifest magic powers just to butt in on something. But I mean that in the nicest possible way.

Yukari: "J-Junpei!? ...Why are YOU here!?

Akihiko: This is Junpei Iori from Class 2-F. He'll be staying here as of today.

Yukari: He's staying HERE!? You've gotta be kidding me!

Akihiko: I bumped into him the other night. He has the potential, but he just awakened to it recently...I told him about us, and he agreed to help.

Yukari: You have the potential!? For real!?


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6189/6132089556_7e77634ab3.jpg

Well...I didn't want to be too mean on his first day. And I guess it's better than a week-long coma. So I said yeah, that's normal. He seemed relieved.

Junpei: "...But man, I was shocked to find out about you guys. I had no idea. I'm glad I'm not the only one. It could get kinda lonely, ya know. I bet you're stoked too, right!? Havin' me join...It'd be nice to have a guy around too, wouldn't it?"

Yukari: "Huh? Uh, y-yeah..."

Junpei: "So anyway, glad to join the team. You can count on me!"

Akihiko: "Well, enough with the introductions. I think we're about ready..."

Sorry if seems like I'm skipping over really important stuff, but Junpei wasn't the important announcement.

Ikutsuki: "Okay, everybody's here. I'd like your undivided attention. For a long time, Mitsuru and Akihiko were the only Persona-users we had. But that number recently jumped to five. Therefore..."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6182/6132085028_37cb9bace2.jpg

Junpei: "Tartarus...? What's that? ...Sounds like toothpaste."

Yukari: "You haven't seen it, Junpei?"

Junpei: "Hm...?"

Ikutsuki: "It's no surprise...since it only appears during the Dark Hour."

Junpei: "The Dark Hour...?"

Akihiko: "Just like the Shadows... Interesting, huh? And it's the perfect place for us to train. You can think of it as a Shadow nest."

Junpei: "Whoa... Their nest, huh...?"

Yukari: "But, Senpai... what about your injury?"

Mitsuru: "Since Akihiko hasn't fully recovered yet, he'll only come as far as the entrance."

Akihiko: "...Yeah, I know."

Junpei: "Relax, I've got your backs."

Yukari: "I'm not so sure about this..."

Mitsuru: "What about you, Mr. Chairman?"

Ikutsuki: "I'll stay here. As you know, I can't summon a Persona..."

We all boarded the monorail, weapons and Evokers stuffed into bags and briefcases, and ended up...at school.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6200/6132085084_37f1ebd920.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6132085136_74f550fc90.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6088/6132085206_09d79fa353.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6204/6132085242_7626743a1f.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6190/6131536865_a414e32c52.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6071/6133432175_985e771d7b_b.jpg
((I are can't into Photoshop. :smallsigh:))
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6132085486_9ddbae6604.jpg

And right on cue, at the stroke of midnight, our school turned into a giant, eery green tower.

Junpei: "Labyrinth...? What are you talking about!? What happened to our school!?"

Mitsuru: "Once the Dark Hour passes, everything returns to normal."

Junpei: "This is the "nest" you were talking about!? But, why!? ...Why'd our school turn into a giant tower!?"

Mitsuru: "....."

Junpei: "You don't know, either?"

Mitsuru: "...No."

Yukari: "I'm sure it's complicated."

Akihiko: "Well, maybe now we'll find out. Mitsuru and I have only gone in to take a peek; this will be our first time exploring it. Exciting, isn't it? There has to be some sort of clue in here about the Dark Hour..."

Mitsuru: "Akihiko. I respect your enthusiasm, but you won't be accompanying us today."

Akihiko: "I know... You don't have to remind me."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6187/6132085524_f801052d31.jpg

Mitsuru: "This is only the entrance. The labyrinth lies beyond the doorway at the top of the stairs."

Akihiko: "First, we'll have you three get a feel for this place. Why don't you go have a look around?"

Yukari: "What!? By ourselves!?"

Mitsuru: "We're not asking you to go very far, and I'll be feeding you information from here."

Akihiko: "We're also going to appoint a leader to make any necessary decisions."

Junpei: "For real? ...One of us? Oh! Oh! Me me me! Pick me!"


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6087/6132085566_14ceb070f0.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6185/6132085616_68069ea08e.jpg

My first executive action, of course, was to punch Junpei in the gut. As dictatorial field leader of S.E.E.S., I will accept no dissension in the ranks. :smallcool:


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6071/6132085688_c031675912.jpg

Junpei: "Y-Yeah, of course I can!"

Yukari: "I think so."

Akihiko: "These are Shadows we're talking about here. Without your Persona, you're screwed."

Yukari: "I'm aware of that."

Akihiko: "All right, let's head inside. Are you ready?"


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6081/6131537173_a81c2f7243.jpg

I was so excited, I think I briefly channeled Sarah Palin as a Persona. Frankly, if it weren't for my nigh-obsessive determination to recount everything I see and hear verbatim, I would have skipped all this and gotten to the demon-slaying part. That's the fun part.

But first the sexy part.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6181/6131537211_8ff25cefd3.jpg

I noticed a door that no one else seemed to see, one that looked quite a lot like the one in my dreams. I reached in my pocket and pulled out the key, and my dear old friend Igor was waiting for me.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6077/6132085842_797a52c978.jpg

See?

Igor: "The time has come for you to wield your power. The tower that you are about to venture into...How did it come to be? For what purpose does it exist? Regrettably, you are not yet capable of answering these questions. That is why you must be made aware of the nature of your power."

Yuki: "The nature of my power?"

Igor: "Your power is unique. It's like the number zero...It's empty, but at the same time holds infinite possibilities. You are able to possess multiple Personas and summon them as needed. And when you have defeated your enemies, you will see the faces of possibility before you. There may be times when they are difficult to grasp... But, do not fear. Seize what you have earned. Your power will grow accordingly... Be sure to keep that in mind. My spare time will soon be scarce. But, please come again of your own accord. I'll tell you then about my true role... the manner in which I can best assist you. Ah, but before I forget...Do you recall when I mentioned another resident of this room....? Tell me... When you think of this person, what do you see?"

Yuki: "Is it a man?"

Well, let's be honest. Igor seems like a cool enough guy, but I doubt that many girls like to hang out in the Velvet Room. Besides me, I mean. The place is pretty classy, considering it's almost certainly some kind of hallucination on my part. My mind is awfully swanky, apparently.

But...considering what he said next, I think it was actually a choice. And...I think I chose wisely.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6073/6131537321_a16e64fe85.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6181/6132085982_b0514f95a4.jpg

His name is Theodore, but he said I can call him Theo. The nice part about Iwatodai is that nearly everyone is inexplicably attractive, even the people who live inside my mind.

Theo: "It's a pleasure to meet you..."

Igor: "My assistant will aid you as well. Until then... Farewell."

I actually have no idea how I got pictures of the Velvet Room. I'm going to chalk it up to "it's magic, I ain't gonna explain jack" and leave it at that.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6132086050_a1c7a29af4.jpg

Meanwhile, in the real world, I was apparently standing around drooling like an idiot.

Junpei: "Yeah, what's up? You look like a zombie."

Yuki: "Really? A zombie?"

Junpei: "That's what you pick to dwell on!? Ohh, I get it. You're trying to yank my chain here. Don't worry, though! I got you covered whenever you need it, man!"

All right, now for the cool part. :smallbiggrin:


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6132086338_4cc50eb9bc.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6072/6132086392_b192fcf418.jpg

Yukari, Junpei and I went in. Akihiko was injured, and Mitsuru stayed behind to give us audio backup with her Persona, since the structure of Tartarus changes from day to day.

First impressions...well, there's blood everywhere. And suitcases. With little bottles of medicine inside.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6132086514_3f20c5d9d5.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6061/6131538003_131ce01992.jpg

Just around the corner, I saw a Shadow. I ran up and smacked him with my nagi...naga...spear. That startled him long enough for the others to get in position.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6131538083_ae4be5b432.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6072/6131538153_d5bd64e6cf.jpghttp://farm7.static.flickr.com/6070/6132086748_495f473043.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6131538289_9128f39c5a.jpg
((See that "Weak" right there? Weaknesses are a very, very, very, very important part of this game. Most of the combat revolves around exploiting enemy weaknesses and protecting your own. Especially because once all enemies are knocked down, it sets you up for...))

I'm not really sure how to explain how we use different Persona skills. It's kind of like muscle memory, but with your mind, and for something you just "remembered." The point is, Orpheus learned how to use power chords to set things on fire, and these little "Maya" things, as Mitsuru called them, burn really nicely. Not quite enough to kill it...but enough to knock it down.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6066/6131538353_dd9d5209e3.jpg

As leader, I gave the order to continue the assault in an orderly fashion.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6190/6132086992_0eae721718.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6200/6131538495_0342efd26f.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6200/6131538551_29c6114664.jpg
((An All-Out Attack. These things never stop being satisfying.))

By which I mean we all rushed in at once and punched and kicked and beat it until it stopped moving. I think Yukari was stabbing it with her arrows. :smalleek:

Anyways, not bad for our first encounter, I think.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6131538607_f2a3de4b5d.jpg

Stairs were off limits, so that left us to face our next foe...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6191/6131538683_0f92b4810c.jpg

Two Mayas. Or, you could say there was...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6205/6131538779_70770c8665.jpg
((Hitting an enemy's weakness will knock them down and give you an additional turn.))

Sorry, no more puns. But that's when we faced our greatest challenge yet...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6085/6132087374_a3cbf03ebd.jpg

...three Mayas.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6208/6132087470_4feb2bf850.jpg
((Eye close-up = critical hit.))

It was starting to piss me off.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6189/6131539091_b3b5c21a97.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6131539199_88b575108a.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6088/6131539249_c409a5cb80.jpg

On the plus side, though, after that battle, I saw some of those "faces of possibility" Igor mentioned. I liked the look of the fairy, so I grabbed it, and I got a new Persona! Her name is Pixie. I haven't used her yet, though, because our final fight of the night was...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6195/6132087834_3062e650c9.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6065/6131539403_1b9cd29c0a.jpg

Yeah. Yukari and Junpei didn't even get to touch their Evokers, but honestly, I think they were a bit relieved about that. And I got another Persona! I'm just snatching these things up like candy.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6187/6131539445_dac1d9a7d1.jpg

Anyways, that was pretty much it for the first floor of Tartarus, and Yukari and Junpei were starting to get tired, so we headed back.

Mitsuru: "Welcome back. So, how was it?"

Yuki: "No problem."

Mitsuru: "I see. Well if you gained confidence, that's the best thing you
could have achieved."

Junpei: "Wow... I never knew I had that kinda power! But damn, I'm beat..."

Yukari: "That's cuz you were bouncin' around like a little kid."

Junpei: "You look pretty tired yourself, Yuka-tan."

Yukari: "I'm still trying to catch my breath, actually..."

Mitsuru: "That's the effect of the Dark Hour; you'll become fatigued more easily. Don't worry, though, you'll adapt. But, I'm surprised... You all did much better than I expected. At this rate, they'll catch up to you in no time, Akihiko."

Akihiko: "Heh, we'll see about that."


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6083/6131539615_85dd5a5218.jpg

I got that Social Link feeling again, and that voice told me our first journey into Tartarus made us all a little closer. Like I needed magic to tell me that. Still, from what I know about tarot, there's something like...twenty other Major Arcana? Looks like I'm going to be making a lot of friends.

Speaking of which, I slipped into my zombie mode again, and Igor and Theo confirmed my theory. They're going to help me "refine my power" by fusing my Personas together to make new ones. I was a little worried about what would happen to the individual Personas involved, but Theo reassured me they were all part of my mind, and they'd always be there. Which was a little vague, but reassuring.

I'm not strong enough to actually fuse any Personas yet, but Theo let me play around with the tarot cards anyways. From what I have, I can get...


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6201/6132088486_88c0411105.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6082/6131539869_549c5794eb.jpg
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6196/6131539825_65534a09c4.jpg

...a catgirl, an angel in bondage gear, and a unicorn. I'm not sure what to think of that second one, but holy crap I want that unicorn so much. Just look at its majesty. It's so coooooool.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6077/6131539997_04caff7ac9.jpg

Aaaand that's when we went home. And I stayed up until, like, two in the morning typing this all out. So I'm going to go crash now, and tomorrow I'll get back to talking about my social life or boys or whatever girls are supposed to blog about. Night!

- Love, Eurydice
Ohgodthattookforever. Sorry about the big delay, but I absolutely refused to post another update without at least the first Tartarus trip. I wanted to show the various daytime activities as well, since this is about when our schedule gets free, but...ah...my PSP screen is broken. I have A/V cables, but I haven't had the chance to sit down and play, either. That update is coming soon, promise.

For some reason, I decided to make a Formspring (http://www.formspring.me/yukihatsune)for Yuki. So, you know, if you want to ask any questions to my LP's version of a video game character, go right ahead.

[Terry576]

Somebody read the something awful Let's Play of Persona Threeeeee~

(i picked it up because you made the Yucatan joke.)

[Terraoblivion]

Awwww, Yuki chose Theo, but Elizabeth is so much cuter! Although, I guess this allows me to see what him and his scenes are like.

Also, that line about the unicorn made it impossible for me to not think "Hey mistah. I want a unicorn. It's so cooool. Sunovabitch."...I'm such a horrible person, though who doesn't want to quote Okabe (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYvhhMjW32k&feature=related)?

In any case, Yuki seems to take everything except Yukari's rampant gayness quite well.

[Deme]

I am pleased by her want of Unicorns. And by the rest of it, of course. But uuuunicorns.

[Terry576]

In the spirit of the Lesbian Indication Counter, I drew this.


http://i876.photobucket.com/albums/ab324/Terry576/Sketches/YouSaying.png

it is funny because she does not like chicks.

[lord_khaine]

If you are taking votes, then i think she should end up with the angel instead, by accident :smalltongue:

[Terraoblivion]

He'll most likely end up with both, though it'll be a while until he's high enough level to get the unicorn.

[Tono]

And, IIRC, he'll be able to shuffle the angel out here in a bit.

[Nerd-o-rama]

In the spirit of the Lesbian Indication Counter, I drew this.


http://i876.photobucket.com/albums/ab324/Terry576/Sketches/YouSaying.png

it is funny because she does not like chicks.

I miss hiimdaisy's P4 comic...

[Inigo Montoya]

If you are taking votes, then i think she should end up with the angel instead, by accident :smalltongue:

The angel isn't even the worst Persona you could end up with.
*coughMARAcough*

[lord_khaine]

The angel isn't even the worst Persona you could end up with.

I just think there is a untatted vein of humor in wanting a pretty unicorn, but getting a bondage angel instead :smalltongue:

[Rogue 7]

This is an awesome thread. Eagerly anticipating more.

[Altaria87]

I'd just like to say that this LP is awesome, and I hope the next update is soon. :smallsmile: