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Definitely not voting for any of those three. I mean, Arie isn't The Worst (tm), but she's not exactly exciting so far either, and I personally wouldn't go for the religious one. The other two, ugh.
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Nov 27, 2019 03:28
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Looking at the above I have to wonder if 'Classmating' is just a code word for a mind-meld, where the psyches of everyone involved get blended together, and afterward have to separate themselves before returning to their bodies.
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Nov 27, 2019 03:32
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malkav11 posted:Definitely not voting for any of those three. Arie is one of my favourites in terms of design (the other being Mirei), but I do agree that she's kind of boring based on this intro. She's the religious one, that's basically the only thing we learn about her in this event (and she told us that up front during the Maiden greeting scene). That said, I plan to put in a vote for her because I am convinced she is hiding something. Maybe it's a Narika-esque psycho possession thing, or maybe it's secret church assassinations. Whatever it is, there has to be something going on with her. AnAnonymousIdiot posted:Looking at the above I have to wonder if 'Classmating' is just a code word for a mind-meld, where the psyches of everyone involved get blended together, and afterward have to separate themselves before returning to their bodies. There has to be at least something to that effect happening. The weird sexy astral projection clips that play before Star Child selection seem to suggest it. It would also sort of explain why the Maidens get nervous and embarrassed all the time, since mind/soul melding has got to be a deeply personal experience. Psycho Knight fucked around with this message at 04:04 on Nov 27, 2019 |
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Nov 27, 2019 04:00
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It would be kinda dumb for them to do "secret church assassin" multiple games in a row, so I'm hoping for something different with Arie.
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Nov 27, 2019 04:04
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What does classmating entail in the anime?
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Nov 27, 2019 04:22
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SSNeoman posted:What does classmating entail in the anime? I plan to do an examination of the anime at some point, although that's a ways off because I don't want to accidentally spoil anything for myself. All I've seen of the anime are a few random clips from the first few episodes, but basically classmating in that is as close to actual sex as they can get without being relegated to adult only stores/sites. Itsuki is in nothing but his boxer briefs and the Maidens are buck naked, except there are floating Mana head censor circles covering the naughty bits. From what I've seen, the Maidens are there in a big curtained off bed and the camera shifts away as we see shadows and bed sheets flying around. The anime also has a line about Classmating not being sex, although Anime Reone doesn't tell Itsuki or Mahiru this until after a Star Child has randomly materialized, so Itsuki is like 10 seconds away from actually doing the deed with Mahiru before either of them learn this fact. Mana also implies WAY heavier in the anime that Itsuki and Mahiru are going to have to gently caress. I guess because Anime Mana and Anime Reone find it hilarious to make two childhood friends believe that they need to have sex in order to save the world. So based on this, Classmating in the anime is literally just foreplay or naked grab-rear end. There's nothing else it could be. The game doesn’t suggest any of this outright. There's even a sprite of Itsuki in just his underwear already in the game, but it isn't used for the Classmating scene. The game likes to tease it, don't get me wrong, but they keep it way more vague than the anime (which I guess makes sense because the anime is designed to titilate and it's existence is entirely a marketing tool for the game). As cheap and hollow as the anime most likely is, there was a clip from Episode 1 which I found geniunely funny for how awkward it was. I'll give it that. That’s probably the only actual laugh in the series though.
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Nov 27, 2019 10:42
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"If Jesus Christ came to Earth and God burst out of the clouds to go “Listen, I sent him here to save everyone. It’ll be fine.” Would there be people going “So you’re The Messiah? Pfff, big deal. Don’t go getting all high and mighty.” Very much yes Meanwhile we're deeply disappointed in the Lillim, We were HOPING to be surprised with some actual decent portrayal of plurality, but no we just got a nice side/mean side thing again with all the subtlety of a Tarua in Itsuki's general vicinity... Tarua seems like a possibly fun story, just with some creepy overtones with the Classmating adjacent scenes, and probably whatever romance scenes happen in the future, Arie, I see potential, I also see some kind of secret, but I don't think Assassin Cloudmonkey98 fucked around with this message at 01:06 on Nov 28, 2019 |
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Nov 28, 2019 00:35
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Psycho Knight posted:So based on this, Classmating in the anime is literally just foreplay or naked grab-rear end. There's nothing else it could be. The game doesn’t suggest any of this outright. There's even a sprite of Itsuki in just his underwear already in the game, but it isn't used for the Classmating scene. The game likes to tease it, don't get me wrong, but they keep it way more vague than the anime (which I guess makes sense because the anime is designed to titilate and it's existence is entirely a marketing tool for the game). so the sacred star god ritual is basically the equivalent of handjobs and dry-humping? lmao
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Nov 28, 2019 01:25
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Bonding Update II: Cancer, Leo, and Virgo Alright, let’s keep the pain train rolling. The last batch of Star Maidens delivered… mixed results. Turns out Lillie is kind of an rear end in a top hat and Tarua has an unsettling love of having her head patted, which leads to really uncomfortable Classmating scenes becoming even worse because she looks like, you know, a kid.  Anyway, this update we’ll be taking a look at Ruka, Femiruna, and Mahiru. Results may be equally disappointing, depending on your opinion on three major character archetypes.  ~Star God Academy Classroom~  Oh, it’s… umm, Ruka, right? The one that said not to remember her name?  If you’re here to deepen our so-called bond, it’s not necessary for me. I can tell the type of person you are instantly. Okay… how exactly do you do that by just looking at me? You haven’t heard? I am a “Tsukuyomi.”You mean that stupid edgelord bullshit from Naruto? Or do you mean the moon god? Should I know why that’s important? I suppose a God’s Gift wouldn’t know that.Question: Why does she know that word? We are in a completely different world. I can let the Miko outfit slide, sort of, because fashion is weird. Fine. I’ll explain from the beginning. You won’t suggest something as idiotic as deepening a bond with me after this.  And I’m one of them. So you can read minds. That’s what I just said. My kind may be rare, but we exist. Now stop talking to me. It’s all meaningless. I don’t think talking is meaningless. It’s how people get to know each other. I heard you were God’s Gift and wondered what type of person you were… But you’re no different from the others. Anyway, now you understand. If you don’t want me reading your mind, then don’t come near me. Got it? Near you? Is that how it works? Is there like a certain distance I need to be in order for you to do the mind reading thing? You’re full of questions, aren’t you? Uh, yes. You said you can read minds. It sounds cool, so I want to know how it works. I can tell right away by touching your forehead. That’s why you should stay out of arm’s reach. No one wants their mind read. Fair point, I suppose. Not going to lie, though. I still want you to try it. You don’t care about your mind being read? What are you, a saint? Probably closer to the opposite, actually. You’re so shady… I sympathize with your circumstances, but I have my own things to deal with. Are you done with the questions? If you have anymore, just spit them out. Fine. I was just curious is all. Anyway, if you can only read minds by touching people’s foreheads, then why don’t you just try not doing that and having a regular conversation? I can’t do that. As a Tsukuyomi, I can tell when the other person is lying. That can be detected without touching and merely through speech.Are you making this poo poo up as you go? So when you talk to me, you can only tell the truth. Do you know how draining that can be? I’m extremely unfit to be a Star Maiden. I mean, I could just speak honestly. We’re talking right now without any problems. Problems will arise eventually. And people will get sick of me and move away. Hm? What did you just mumble? N-Nothing… Anyway, I’ve warned you that I’m a Tsukuyomi. If you don’t mind getting your mind read, then I’ll do my job as a Star Maiden. Though I doubt our relationship will be healthy if I know your deepest thoughts. Well, you don’t know that until you try. Right? Guh… Why are you so prepared to do this? Because if I’m not then we all die? If you insist, then do what you want. I have something else to do, so I’m going. Mind telling me what that something is? I have to do my laundry. Why should I have to tell you that? I’m trying to learn stuff about you. That’s how this bonding thing is supposed to work. I think. Ugh… Hmph. It won’t be long until you can’t say that anymore. Just you watch. Goodbye.Okay, Ruka seems to be permanently stuck in her angsty teenager phase. Doesn’t seem like it’s all that hard to get her to open up though. We didn’t get a demonstration of her supposed mind reading ability, but we’ve got a way to make her show us. Classmating time! ~Church Spirit Chamber~ Ready to try Classmating? A-Are you insane?! I told you before, didn’t I? I’m a Tsukuyomi that can ready minds just by touch alone.  Think you can handle that? Don’t have a choice. Classmating is part of the bond deepening thing, so we need to do it if we’re going to make stronger Star Children. I have to give this everything I’ve got. Uh-huh… I guess you’re not lying… I can tell if you were even without touching you. Did I tell you that before? Yeah, you were pretty clear about it. I’ll just have to not lie to you. O-Oh… E-Even if you don’t lie, who knows what you’re thinking. So I’ll go ahead and read your mind right now. I-I mean… doing the ritual will let me see a bunch of stuff in your head…User AnAnonymousIdiot put forth the idea that Classmating actually involves mind melding or something to that effect. This seems to support that idea a little. It would explain why the Maidens get really shy/embarrassed afterward, since that has to be a super personal experience and also trippy as hell. If you think of anything lewd, I’ll never do the ritual with you again. Are you okay with that stipulation? Sure. I have way too much on my mind at the moment to be thinking things like that. Read as much as you want. You’re a brave one. I admit you’ve got guts. But all men are disgusting. I’m sure you’re thinking of something lewd right now at this moment.I’m personally thinking about what a garbage fire my term papers were and what kind of terrible grades I’ll probably get which will in turn stress me out about my final exams even more so than normal. Hurry up and move your forehead closer. It’s the quickest way to read your mind. Like this? Hurry up. Your bangs are in the way. They’ll reduce the accuracy of my Tsukuyomi powers.You are putting an awful lot of conditions on this power of yours, Ruka. It has the unmistakeable aroma of someone that is making poo poo up. Okay, okay. There. Go for it. Hm? You have a pretty wide forehead. Are you mind reading or fortune telling? Because I already know someone that can tell fortunes. Yeah, yeah, keep talking. I’ll rip off that façade of yours. Here goes. Remember that I got your permission to do this. Come on already. I want to know how this works. … … …Huh? What’s wrong? I’m pretty sure I’m not thinking about anything weird right now. Wait… You did something, didn’t you? What kind of thing could I possibly do? I-I don’t know. But really… what’s going on here? I don’t sense any sort of barrier. It’s like I’m touching air… Could it be… that your head is empty? Uh, no. Listen, I may not be an honor student like Mahiru, but I’m not an idiot. There’s no other explanation. Tsukuyomi react to the other person’s Star Energy to read their minds. Everyone in Granvania has some amount of Star Energy in them. That’s why there isn’t anyone in this world whose mind I can’t read. Granvania? You mean that world that I’m not from? Oh… R-Right… A God’s Gift’s Star Energy is different from those of this world. So that’s why I only sensed a power that felt like air. Hm… I guess that does make sense. You could try it on Mahiru if you wanted to make sure. She’s from the same place I am. You’re right. It feels weird for me, so I’ll test it out when I get the chance. If that’s the case… maybe I just can’t read the minds of God’s Gifts… Ugh… So then, you want me to do the ritual without being able to know what you’re thinking? What sort of punishment is this?! What’s the problem? Do you just not want to do it? I-It’s not that I don’t want to. It’s to save the world. I understand that as a Star Maiden. I was just caught off guard because I thought I’d be able to read your mind… Ah, so you got freaked out about it. Wh-Wh-What are you saying? H-Hmph… Let’s just get this over with. I was just a bit shaken up earlier. I-I’ll do it! So hurry up and get ready! I am ready. I’ve been ready this entire time. H-Hmph. The ritual is just that: a ritual. I don’t need to read your mind…*Classmating happens, loving FINALLY* Huff… Huff… Was that it? Yeah, that’s it. I think I’m starting to figure out how to work this. What about you? Are you feeling okay? You don’t need to worry about me. I’ll tell you right now: Don’t let it get to your head. I think nothing of doing this ritual with you. Sure thing. Even still, thanks for trying. I-I’m going home! Jerk!*And Ruka takes her leave* I do not understand that girl.She’s a Tsundere, it’s what they do. Moving on, let’s finish up with Ruka so I can grit my teeth in preparation for Femiruna. ~Star God Academy Field~ *sigh* …Nobody here either. This bond deepening thing is kind of difficult when I can’t actually find any of the Star Maidens. Where’s Ma—… No, wait. I’m not that desperate. Not yet.*Small child out of nowhere! And no, it isn’t Tarua this time* [Barefoot Girl]: Ow! Oh, sorry. I’m kind of spacing out a bit. You okay? Oh for… goddammit, give me a minute. Stupid database not including NPC portraits… making me clip them out of backgrounds. Why are you running around without any shoes on? You’re going to hurt your feet like that. Here, I’ll carry you. Come on..png) Oh… Is that okay?There, good enough. I swear to god, you better show up in more than just this one scene. I don’t mind. I’m trying to be more like the kind of guy that could reasonably live up to his title. Okay… Then maybe I’ll ask you to do that. Oh, here it is. Thanks for taking me home. An orphanage, huh?... Oh, Ruka… Wait, Ruka’s here? Hey, what happened to you? Why are you barefoot? Um… I took off my shoes to go play, and some crows stole them… You’re lying again… Why do you lie so much when you know I can see right through it.Kids are stupid, Ruka. I-I’m gonna go do my homework… Thanks, mister.*Barefoot girl books it* *sigh*… Why is she always like this… Well? What are you doing here? She ran into me while I was at the Academy. I carried her home when I saw that she was running around barefoot. Is she your friend? As you saw, it can be a bit awkward, but I make do. You live here too? Hmph. What about it? Nothing. Anyway, maybe you should talk it out with her. There must be some reason why she lied like that. Th-That’s got nothing to do with you. I don’t need your opinion on the matter. We have our own circumstances here… Anyway, it’s a bigger problem that you found out where my home is. Don’t bring any other God’s Gifts and Impurities or whatever into this place. Most of the kids here are nervous enough already. So stay away, basically. I can respect that. What should I do if I need you for something, though? That will never happen. But if you do have to come here, call yourself something different. Something different enough that the kids here won’t see through you. So your friend, then? Well, that sounds most convincing. It’s hardly a lie either. Really? That means we’re making progress on the bonding thing. We’re already friends. Th-That’s hardly a lie… You’re… barely a friend. If I had to rank you, you’d be on the bottom, you hear? Well, I guess it’s a start. You can just leave it at that. It’s never going to happen anyway. Now, are we done here? I have to go back and make dinner. I’m very busy. You cook everything yourself? Who else would? I’m the only adult here who helps out. You count as an adult here? Sh-Shut up. I’m at the age where I should have left the orphanage already. But I’ve been here since I was five. I work here because I still feel I need to. I see, so a similar situation to mine. My parents died years ago and I’ve been living with Mahiru’s family ever since. I see… I guess you went through a bunch of stuff too. Orphan bonding! Yay! I thought you were more shallow. I thought I could see right through you after reading your mind a few times.Once again, this next part is weirdly translated. Take it away, official translation! You’re really going all out on me… That’s how most people whose minds I read are.Maybe it’s because I’m really worn out at the moment, but… what? It’s people like that who get mad when I read their minds. Anyway, we’re done chitchatting here. It’s time for you to go home. Oh, sure. I won’t keep you any longer. This was fun though. Huh? Fun? Which part could be considered that? I don’t think we talked about anything except stupid and mundane stuff. We got to know each other better. We also bonded over our mutual lacking of parents. I guess that’s more of a dark humor, but still. I guess. You are just such an unrelenting bummer. Hmph… We sure talked a bunch. I think it’s been a while since I talked to anyone for this long. I can tell when people lie, so they all avoid talking to me. It would make everything so tiresome.Have you ever considered maybe getting a pen pal or something? Then I’m the perfect chatting buddy. You can’t do that stuff to me since I’m a God’s Gift. I-I don’t need a chatting buddy… I really need to go and prepare dinner, or I’ll be late. Right. I’ll see you again at the Academy then. A-Again…? *sigh*… Whatever. Just don’t come here anymore.And that’s it for Ruka’s intro. Fascinating stuff. Twenty bucks says that her “mind reading” thing is just something she made up to try and push people away. I’m going to have quite a bit of money riding on various bets by the time we’re done with these intro events.  Anyway, next up is Femiruna.  ~Granvania Shopping Center~ Femiruna’s house should be up ahead somewhere. At least she seems like the talkative type, unlike Ruka. Should be a little easier to get to know her. Wait, is that her voice? I am not in the mood for blue. Do you not even know my color preferences? Before I consider you a useless servant, go and buy another one!No. No, no, no. Don’t do this to me, game. Femiruna? …Oh? Itsuki. Good day. Are you having trouble with something? Something is quite wrong. I am the unluckiest person in the world. Servant? Are you super rich lady or something? A super rich lady…? I am surprised to hear of someone in Granvania who does not know who I am. Oh, come to think of it… you are not from this nation, correct? That is the case, yes.Wait, wait. Hold on a minute. Is Granvania a country or the name of the world? You keep using those two interchangeably, game. Are they both named Granvania? Very well. In that case, I shall educate you. My father is the richest man in all of Granvania. As his daughter, of course I would have servants. Oh, okay. That’s cool, I guess. That’s basically what rich people in my world have. So, what do you want with me? We have to do the Classmating ritual at some point, but I’ve been told that I need to greet you properly. So you are making your rounds to speak with the Star Maidens? How admirable. I thought you would be much more full of yourself being surrounded by them all. I wish people would stop saying that about me… Let me be blunt with you. My social standing is exactly as I just described. You must be honored to have the chance to do the Classmating ritual with me.I was about to comment that Femiruna should be the one honored to Classmate with Itsuki, since he’s God’s Gift and is the one regular person on this planet capable of battling the weird sex monsters… monsters made when people have sex… you know what I mean. Anyway, I was about to comment on that, but this supposedly happens every 10 years and all the God’s Gifts apparently decide to return home after saving the world, so I guess their social standing wouldn’t be that high. On the other hand, this is pretty much the same deal as with Yuna/the summoners in FFX and people seemed to have a lot of respect for them. I’m getting the feeling that patience is going to play a major role in this bond. That is correct. I will need to be patient with you. I will conduct the ritual with you just like how I eat those despicable carrots. In any case, it is a glorious thing to be chosen as a Star Maiden. Seriously though. You would think some aristocratic family like Femiruna’s would be all over this situation. There has been a major crisis, their daughter is chosen to be one of only 12 Star Maidens, and she’ll be working with a guy called “God’s Gift” in order to save the world. You would think that Femiruna’s dad would talk to his daughter and make sure she was doing everything she could to make a good impression in the hopes of scoring an arranged marriage or something. Oh, my servant is back. Well, I am quite busy, so I will excuse myself now.*And Femiruna wanders a few steps away* Why did you only purchase one?! I cannot believe you… I have had enough! I will purchase all the merchandise in this store!  Nooo! The noble laugh! My poor ears! Some of these girls are going to be really tiring to deal with…~Church Spirit Chamber~ *sigh*… Why must I come here myself? It would be more proper if you came to me… Unless somebody forgot to tell me something, then I’m pretty sure this is the only place where Classmating can happen. I understand that. It is a matter of mental preparation. Listen, I know you don’t really like this, but can we please focus on the Classmating ritual? I’m still short on mon-- I mean Star Children. I really need you to be on board with this. Together, we will be able to create the most powerful Star Children. (God, I hope so.) Sounds good to me. Let’s do it. Ah! H-How dare you approach a lady so suddenly? Have you no etiquette?! P-Please… I cannot believe you! Sorry, sorry. I thought you were good to go. If you’re nervous then— I-I would never be nervous over a mere ritual! Perhaps you are the one who is nervous? Well, I won’t argue with that. It’s always a little nerve-wracking doing this for the first time, even if I am used to the general process. Ohohoho! What a pitiful God’s Gift you are! (Please let this be the ritual where I wake up from this nightmare…) I think we’re both relaxed enough as it is. We can start now. Y-Yes… we shall.*♫Creepy Classmating sceeeennne! Unless you have the PS4 version!♫* Huff… Huff… Is everything okay? Not dizzy, are you? Well? Is our Star Child a powerful one? Too soon to tell, but thanks for your work anyway. It seems you have enough manners to thank me. If you express your gratitude and plead with teary eyes, I may just cooperate with you again. I’ll be sure to remember that the next time I come to ask you. Ugh… one more time. Please, please do not do the laugh. I beg of you. Let me rest my ears. ~Star God Academy Field~ Hm? Oh, Femiruna’s chatting with another student. Kind of figured she would consider that to be beneath her. Maybe I got the wrong impression. You there. Stop right there. You have dropped your handkerchief.[Female Student A]: Th-Thank you, Miss Femiruna!  [Female Student A]: I-I’m sorry! I made you pick up something so cheap! Don’t sully yourself like that. But thank you very much! *Female Student A hauls rear end out of there* W-Wait… I simply wanted to say that the floral pattern was beautiful… *sigh*… Something wrong? …You?! When did you get here?! Around the same time you picked up the handkerchief. That was from the very start then! I did not think you to entertain such despicable hobbies as stalking. …I don’t stalk people, Femiruna. I sort of have more important things to do than following people around. You know, like world saving. I suppose that would be true. That is quite convincing. Very well. I forgive you this time. Wait, what am I being forgiven for exactly? By the way, did you want something from me? I am a busy person, but I may grant you a little bit of my time. I am rarely able to speak with even the students of this academy. Why? There’s lots of them around. It is because I am of noble status. Will there be bugs who dare touch the elegant flower blooming on the mountain?Uhh, yes? That’s what blooming flowers do. It attracts insects for pollination. So they avoid you because you’re rich. They’re still your classmates though, aren’t they? They should know you at least a little bit. I was not originally a student of this academy. My father ensured I was tutored by teachers of various disciplines at our manor. Okay, now I get it. You just aren’t used to this yet. You need more time to adjust. Used to it? You mean me? Ohohoho! It is the other way around, I assure you, Itsuki.  It may take a little time, so I am waiting for that day to come. I think you’re in for a bit of a wait, then. I came to the academy not only at Father’s recommendation, but of my own desire. So it wasn’t just because you became a Star Maiden? Yes. There are many things I cannot learn within the walls of the manor. I would like to learn many things during my limited time at the academy. What do you mean limited? Oh, time is slipping away. I must bid you farewell now. You should be honored that I bestowed my precious time to you. Granted, you are the only one who would shamelessly come talk to me here. Should I not do that from now on? *Femiruna wanders off* She seemed kind of mad there at the end. Was it something I said? I thought I was doing pretty good with the “talking to girls” thing. One down, one more on the way. It’s finally time for us to catch up with Itsuki’s childhood friend about all the crazy stuff that’s happened since that fateful day on the rooftop. I wonder how that whole personality adjustment is working out for her.  ~Star God Academy Classroom~ Man, it’s kind of spooky in here when it’s quiet. Do you have all of your classes in here? Yeah, I do. Why? Hey, what are you doing here? I wanted to know what exactly you guys study in here. But class is already over. So why are you still here, then? I handle the daily tasks, so I’m finishing up the class report. Must be tough having to deal with classes in a different world. It must be tough for you going to the labyrinths, Itsuki. Besides, you should focus on your relationships with the other Star Maidens. Why are you wasting your time here? Well, I mean, you’re a Star Maiden too. I should also be working on a relationship with you. W-With me? Besides, I know you better than anyone else here. Seems like there’s already a solid foundation there. Well, we are childhood friends… Maybe it’s like a fate thing? You know? That’s new information. Either Itsuki omitted that in the opening or the translators hosed up. Either is possible. I bet you say that to all the other Star Maidens too… Did you say something just now? You’re kind of quiet. No… Come on, I need to write the class report. I’m busy here. Why are you being so cold? It’s like you’ve been dodging me since we got here. I-I’m not treating you any differently. It’s just your imagination.”I’m not crazy, you’re crazy!” Says the girl that had her personality adjusted by the developers for no adequately explained reason. Alright, fine. I’ll get out of your way. I’ll try and stop by earlier next time. Sure… O-Oh… And, thanks for coming… Hm? You were actually worried about me, weren’t you? Well, yeah. Why wouldn’t I be? Look at where we are and what we’ve been dragged into. I’ll be fine. I’ve gotten used to the academy here. Except for Lillie. Also, did you know? Mr. Narcisstes is really popular among the female students. Not really surprised about that. Is he a good teacher though? Yeah. The class is more interesting than I thought it’d be. He sometimes cracks these dumb jokes that no one laughs at though. You starting to get a bit of a crush on him? What makes you think that? Because he’s a good-looking dude that is interesting and cracks jokes and is also a teacher? Right. (Like you’re one to talk.) Now then… I need to finish up the class report and go home. I have to study for tomorrow’s class, and also do my Star Maiden duties. I’ll do my best so I don’t drag you down. You’re such a square, Mahiru. Itsuki, I know things are tough, but let’s keep working at it.I get the feeling that Mahiru’s personality change has been fumbled a bit. You can still see the original colder/stuck-up attitude towards Itsuki that she supposedly had in the PSP version, but then there’s this kinder “I have a secret crush on my childhood friend and am bad at hiding it” personality kind of lightly brushed on top of it. I wish I had the PSP version so I could try and compare the scenes animations as well. ~Church Spirit Chamber~ Anyway, we’re doing Classmating, even though Mahiru and Itsuki already did that. Mahiru, I need your help to make more Star Children. You know, in order to go into the labyrinths and kill the monsters and— *sigh*… It seems this was inevitable. I guess. You guess…? It was up to you in the first place. Listen, this is weird, okay? Give me a break. But are you okay with us doing… that?What is “that”?! Explain, dammit! Of course I’m not okay with it. You seem rather calm about it compared to me… It makes me nervous, but I agreed to fight and save this world… sort of. Okay, I was actually forced into it, but either way I’ve accepted the fact that this needs to be done in order for us to get back home.At this point the screen blacks out for a brief moment, but Classmating doesn’t happen.  It cuts back to this. I’m not entirely sure why it happens. It doesn’t seem like a brief time skip or anything. It’s the first time we’ve done this together, so you’ll take the lead, right?…No, it couldn’t possibly… Is it because they had to remove some kind of scene were Mahiru’s old personality was too blatant and they couldn’t/wouldn’t rewrite or reanimate it? So they cut out that part of the event and used a brief fade to black effect in order to cover up the cut? Come on, Spike Chunsoft, really? Please tell me there’s another slightly less stupid reason for that weird jump cut. Oh yeah, this is the first time since that practice round, isn’t it? Crap… now I’m getting more nervous about this. S-Stop it… if we’re both nervous, it’ll negatively affect the born Star Child. You’re right… We need to find a way to relax a little. Relax… I just remembered that you’re good at impersonating a monkey. It helped me relax at my piano recital that one time. Are you kidding? That was back in grade school, Mahiru. I was a kid. I really liked that monkey act of yours, Itsuki. Uh-uh, not happening. That’s way too embarrassing. But I’m the only one here. Whatever happens here, stays here, right? I can’t believe this… Fine, I’ll do it. Yes! It’s been so long since I’ve seen it. Can’t believe I have to do this to save the world… Well, here it goes. Eek! Eek! Eek! Ooh ooh ooh ooh ooh! U-Um, I think I’m good now… Thanks. I told you. I feel like such an idiot now. We both won’t be able to relax at this rate… Maybe we should try some other time. I’ll try and find one of the other Star Maidens. No… What? I said no. You said you’ll have trouble in the labyrinth if it isn’t a Star Child between us, right? I think you’re taking some liberties with what I said, but sure, that’s the general idea. You have to do it with me today. But you’re nervous. I don’t want to force you into it. I know it’s super weird for us. I appreciate your consideration, but don’t give your childhood friend special treatment. I have every intention… to fulfill and even surpass my duty as a Star Maiden. Just a little bit of tension shouldn’t interrupt the ritual too much… I feel ya, Itsuki. I’m getting the inkling that the developers really half-assed this personality change idea. Sh-Shut up! I feel more relaxed now after talking it out! Come on, Itsuki. Let’s make the best Star Child ever! A Star Child between two God’s Gifts will never lose to the Impurities*.*Gameplay will not necessarily reflect this. Right. If you’re determined, then let’s do this. Now or never.*And then Classmating finally happens. Not a weird fade cut* … … So… how was it? It would have been better if you didn’t ask me that… Right, sorry. But it’s so weird… I feel like I’m floating… Really? Is that what it feels like for everyone? According to Mr. Narcisstes… when a Star Child is born, they’re made from a part of the female. Ah, I get ya. Same feeling as taking a really satisfying dump. So they are a part of you? Does this mean I’m another step closer to fulfilling my duty? Seems like it. I’m glad we made a healthy and cute Star Child.Okay, that wasn’t quite as awkward as I thought it would be. I was expecting that to go about the same as when Reone basically forced the two of them together. Psycho Knight fucked around with this message at 18:50 on Feb 23, 2020 |
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Dec 1, 2019 04:15
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Son of a... ugh... This is part of Bonding Update 2, it just wouldn't fit because these three Maidens won't stop talking (the character count for the last Bonding Update was like 10-15k characters shorter). I will reorganize these into single posts once all the Bonding Updates are done. Here is Mahiru's second main bonding event. ~Star God Academy Classroom~ *The bell rings and Mahiru slowly wanders into the scene* Thanks for waiting, Itsuki. You came to build up our relationship, right? I got here earlier than last time so I could see everyone in class. He was giving a lecture on strengthening bonds, so maybe I should have come even earlier. Feels like I could benefit from that, too. I noticed you came in. Ha, my little sis sure is trying to make me proud. Hah, I can’t have my big brother feel ashamed of me, you know. …Okay, I know Narcisstes said in the lecture that treating each other like family was a good idea, but is this really the best way to build up a bond? Give me a break, big brother. You think doing this cheap act is really going to help? No, no I do not. I think this is just going to make things incredibly weird and uncomfortable for everyone involved. Except maybe Tarua… and Reone. What are we supposed to do then? I’m not sure… I honestly don’t know. Mr. Narcisstes was hazy on the details in the lecture. He said bonds are what bond God’s Gift and a Star Maiden together. I think there was a pun in there somewhere…Narc sounds like a lovely teacher that tries to sound profound by being purposely obtuse. So… what then? In other words, we should probably just try a whole bunch of things. Well don’t look at me for ideas, I’m fresh out. Yeah, yeah. I knew you’d just dump it all on me. How about this? Talking is one way people get to know each other, right? We’re childhood friends, and we share tons of memories. I think that’s something we should take advantage of. You want to just tell stories about each other? We can deepen our bond by opening up and understanding each other better. Was I an embarrassing kid? I don’t remember any moments in particular. According to Mr. Narcisstes, women are better at remembering those things.And what exactly are Narc’s credentials? Does he have any peer-reviewed research to back that up? That’s why I’ll help you remember. Alright, I’ll leave it to you then, I guess.*And then we get another fade to black cut, for some reason. Was Mahiru setting up a puppet theater for this or something?* A long, long time ago… That was 10 years ago, when I was still in grade school. Mahiru wasn’t particularly good at socializing with others.  At that time, Mahiru was timid, so she just quietly withstood everything. On a side note…  Uhhh…. O-Okay… not sure I needed that little bit of information. One day, on the way home from school… Mahiru was surrounded by some boys in her class. There were six of them! Not going to lie, I like Mahiru’s “lean back with hands on hips” animation. It’s hard to see in screenshot form. You were a master martial artist in grade school? Are you for real right now? I’m just embellishing the story. Is that what you want to call it? We’re almost at the climax, so don’t interrupt me. Alright, alright. I’ll be quiet. Now then… Oh no! The pitiable Mahiru was about to suffer at the hands of those beasts! But at that moment! “Don’t you dare touch Mahiru!” Crap, this is quickly coming back to me now. She heard a voice from behind her. When she turned around, she saw… Me, right? Do you remember now? Unfortunately. I got my rear end kicked trying to help you. And after the bullies left… With your nose bleeding, you said this to me while I cried: Thus ends the tale of the rescued Mahiru. Such a loser. This game had come out and I was feeling so inspired and heroic. Then I go and get the poo poo kicked out of me and top it all off by saying something like that. I kept mulling it over in my head for days after that and even lost my appetite for a while. Why did you do something so reckless? If you were going to end up that way, you should have left me alone. No, I couldn’t… Huh…? They were bullying you. I couldn’t let a bunch of jackasses get away with something like that.Remember back in Lillith/Lillie’s event where Lillie gleefully runs off to explicitly bully some poor guy until he breaks down? The angry dialog was written by me, Official Itsuki completely ignores all of that and says something along the lines of “Oh boy, what am I going to do with her. That scamp.” Oh… But you know what? I honestly did feel happy. Back then, you looked like my knight in shining armor. Hey, Mahiru…? Hm…? You are making this so weird right now. That line was more embarrassing than the story. Wh-What?! I-I can’t help that I really felt that way! Well, at least now we both shared an embarrassing moment. Either way, I did promise to protect you. So I guess I better make sure I’m a better knight than last time. Need to make sure that Black Belt Princess Mahiru gets back home safe and sound. Say… speaking of promises… Do you remember our promise in grade school during summer vacation? Which summer vacation was this, exactly? It was during the Autumn Festival 10 years ago. I promised something then? What was it? You don’t remember at all? Drawing a blank, sorry. I… I guess you wouldn’t remember after all. In one ear, out the other. Did someone gut your pumpkin head?Another twenty bucks on “Childhood Marriage Proposal.” I’ve got a good feeling about this one. Anyway! I had fun talking about our memories! I think our bond has deepened quite a bit, wouldn’t you say? So, that’s that!*Mahiru turns and walks off* …She is piiissed. Promise at the Autumn Festival… 10 years ago… The hell is she talking about?And that’s all for Mahiru! Another three Maidens down, only… 6 more to go… dammit. Next time on Intro Bonding: Libra, Scorpio, and Sagittarius. Psycho Knight fucked around with this message at 18:52 on Feb 23, 2020 |
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Dec 1, 2019 04:17
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Psycho Knight posted:
Psycho Knight posted:
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Dec 1, 2019 04:51
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Mahiru is still my favorite Star Maiden so far despite her personality see-saw, or maybe because of it. She isn't so meek and shy as to be a total childhood friend cliche. She isn't quite in tsundere territory. She has a complex personality, even if it's complex for weird reasons, and I'll take that over the laughing stuck-up cat lady. Ruka might be interesting. I'd like to find out more about her orphanage backstory, but her preoccupation with her magical mind powers could get old fast.
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Dec 1, 2019 06:08
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Why are all the women in this dimension terrible?
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Dec 1, 2019 07:30
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I was originally going to go with Mahiru until I saw the relatives line. But I guess that would explain why he is living in her house. It would make sense for him to live with relatives.
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Dec 1, 2019 07:33
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Ratoslov posted:Why are all the women in this dimension terrible? It's probably something in the water. Ruka might be interesting, and in either case as a tsundere she ought to be a good trainwreck. Ms. Ho Ho Ho has the laugh so I'm going to propose her just to make the LPer suffer  And Mahiru is actually somewhat 3-dimensional, even if it has come from butchering her rewrite. She comes out as a bit schizophrenic as a result but frankly I think it's a bonus in this game. Good writing we won't have, so let's settle for anything remotely entertaining.
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Dec 1, 2019 07:49
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I'm hoping that's a mistranslation because otherwise this is gonna be AWK-WARD...
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Dec 1, 2019 08:05
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Ratoslov posted:Why are all the women in this dimension terrible? Way too many characters and not enough time or budget. CII did the right thing by cutting the heroine count in half. The only thing I can suggest is that maybe they get better later in their arcs. We've only seen their introduction after all. Commander Keene posted:Probably should be "mad"? Also, about halfway through Ruka's stuff you start using "ready" instead of "read" for the whole touch telepathy thing. Yeah, I caught those. I appreciate the mention though. Now that my semester is over I'm going to quickly scan through and correct the little errors so far. I'm using Word for this LP instead of notepad, but auto-correct has it's own pitfalls as seen here. Commander Keene posted:I'm guessing this is supposed to be more of a "just like siblings" kind of thing rather than directly blood related. Also, jeez that personality change. It's like they only bothered for half her lines. It's enough to give you whiplash. SSNeoman posted:I'm hoping that's a mistranslation because otherwise this is gonna be AWK-WARD... BlazeEmblem posted:I was originally going to go with Mahiru until I saw the relatives line. This is the first time it has been mentioned (I think). The two of them have different family names, but I know that that doesn't really mean anything. A mistranslation wouldn't surprise me, but honestly I think we’re probably dealing with cousins here. As BlazeEmblem pointed out, it would make sense for Itsuki to go and live with relatives after losing both parents. It's possible that Mahiru’s family took him in because Itsuki and Mahiru were friends, or their families were, but it's pretty unlikely. Itsuki would have been anywhere between 10-15 years old when his parents died (they were still alive as of 10 years ago, as we just heard in that bonding event), and Japan's CPS have way more authority over where he would go as an orphan than in places like Canada, Europe or the US, so being placed with the family of some random school friend doesn't seem likely. If I spot a video of this bonding event in Japanese, then I'll watch through and see what word is used in the original. I would say there's a good 80% chance that the two of them are cousins, though. Anime and Japanese games are known for having an unhealthy attachment to blood ties in romance stuff, or at least to ties that get as close as possible to blood relations. Kaishai posted:Mahiru is still my favorite Star Maiden so far despite her personality see-saw, or maybe because of it. She isn't so meek and shy as to be a total childhood friend cliche. She isn't quite in tsundere territory. She has a complex personality, even if it's complex for weird reasons, and I'll take that over the laughing stuck-up cat lady. Regarding Mahiru, I suppose that is one way to look at it. SC's fumbling may have accidentally given her more depth (I refuse to believe it was intentional ). As for Ruka, she already knows that her mind powers don't work on Itsuki, so hopefully that does take a back seat from now on. They would have to keep bringing in NPCs to force it back into the conversation for no reason. It looks more like Ruka’s arc is the typical "person hates people and is alone, but the protag helps them get happier" thing. I have no problem with that in theory. How it is handled in practice is something else. Omobono posted:Ms. Ho Ho Ho has the laugh so I'm going to propose her just to make the LPer suffer Of course you'd do that. I get to vote too, though, since this is blind. So at least I can fight it.  That last part is honestly just what everyone should be looking at. I'm not saying that none of these girls can develop interesting stories. I argued that Narika's was good in CII, as was Ellie's (although not because of Ellie). But CII was the sequel where the writers/director were more experienced with this series. Despite being brand new, CP's core is still technically the 2012 PSP "first try at this series" script. I'm not overly hopeful of a surprising character arc from anyone except maybe the new girl, since all her stuff is freshly written. With that said, aiming for heroines that seem to provide the best chance at laughs, unintentional or otherwise, seems to be the way to go.
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Dec 1, 2019 14:57
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So far Ruka and Mahiru seem most tolerable. Ruka because there's at least a tiny glimmer of maybe something interesting going on, and Mahiru because she's less...one-note? Even if the writing is a bit schizophrenic. Of course, if they're actually related, ew.
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Dec 1, 2019 17:56
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So far, I'm not that against Ruka. She seems generically tsundere, sure, but we can hope they'll do something interesting. I wouldn't mind a pleasant surprise. I fully understand the dislike of the "noble laugh", so I'll second the decision to ignore wannabe fox-girl for now. I was hoping Mahiru would be more tame, but the Chunsoft induced schizophrenia plus this "sorta siblings" thing has me saying no for now- I've seen enough to know which direction that's probably heading. If everyone manages to be worse somehow, I might change my opinion, but for now I'm holding out for this to be hopefully not that terrible, though I know there's a trainwreck coming in down the line somewhere. Ratoslov posted:Why are all the women in this dimension terrible? As Psycho said, probably a result of over-doing it. Few studios and stories in general can pull off having many characters be interesting, and a new series with new-ish writers aren't likely to pull that off. Why they always seem to go for making unlikable characters over pleasant if boring is beyond me.
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Dec 1, 2019 18:12
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Mahiru's promise is definitely a childhood marriage proposal. Things like that always seem to be one of the childhood friend tropes.
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Dec 1, 2019 19:42
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Psycho Knight posted:
This is presumably just referring back to the 'shallow' line but it flows awkwardly. Psycho Knight posted:A mistranslation wouldn't surprise me, but honestly I think we’re probably dealing with cousins here. As BlazeEmblem pointed out, it would make sense for Itsuki to go and live with relatives after losing both parents. She just says 'relatives' (親戚同士) but the character page confirms cousins, yeah. Psycho Knight posted:I wish I had the PSP version so I could try and compare the scenes animations as well. Here, I cut a piece out of https://www.nicovideo.jp/watch/sm19618702 to spare you the lack of skip-to-time on the free interface. It's different enough from the Conception Plus scene that stuff probably won't match up, though, she does still mention they're relatives. There's no black screen or other unusual content in the classmating scene so I have no idea what's up with that.
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Dec 1, 2019 21:20
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Polsy posted:This is presumably just referring back to the 'shallow' line but it flows awkwardly. You're doing Star God's work, Polsy. I didn't bother checking the Japanese official website. I didn't realize they had little profile sections. The English official site is pretty barebones in that it just lists the features and allows you to choose a character theme for the page. Either way, that answers the relatives question. No mistranslation on SC's part, the two are indeed related by blood. Not overly surprising. I'll be able to match it based on context and dialog the next time I'm on my PC. But based on the video you gave me it does indeed look like SC just cut out some of Mahiru’s actions/speech and covered it up with a fade transition. The cutscene from the start of the game I can understand, but god drat SC, you had to reanimate the models anyway, could you really not find a way to take Old Mahiru out?
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Dec 1, 2019 22:13
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The motion sequences are lined up with when you advance the text anyway so surely you could just take any undesired ones out...surely...
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Dec 1, 2019 22:55
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Psycho Knight posted:I'll be able to match it based on context and dialog the next time I'm on my PC. But based on the video you gave me it does indeed look like SC just cut out some of Mahiru's actions/speech and covered it up with a fade transition. The cutscene from the start of the game I can understand, but god drat SC, you had to reanimate the models anyway, could you really not find a way to take Old Mahiru out? Polsy posted:The motion sequences are lined up with when you advance the text anyway so surely you could just take any undesired ones out...surely... This is Spike Chunsoft we're talking about. From what I've seen of them so far, I wouldn't put it out of question they could tangle their programming that badly to where it isn't so simple of a fix. Though if they already reanimated the models, then it really seems like a hamfisted solution. What I'd give to get some information on the inside workings of this mess of a company like what happened with Lunar: Dragon Song.
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Dec 1, 2019 23:15
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I don't know which is worse: them being cousins, them being foster siblings, or it not coming up until now.
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Dec 2, 2019 01:24
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Considering what Mahiru had to say at the end of the first update, do thoughts have a definite mass and weight in the world? EDIT: Thinking about it further, by lighter do they mean figuratively or literally? AnAnonymousIdiot fucked around with this message at 02:40 on Dec 2, 2019 |
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Dec 2, 2019 02:37
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Bonding Update III: Libra, Scorpio, and Sagittarius Third bonding update, here we go. This is the halfway mark, so by the end of the next update we’ll finally have an idea of what all 12 of the Maidens are like, at least on a surface level anyway. Then we can cut the roster down to make things more manageable.  Before that, we need to check up on the next three ladies. Mirei is up first.  ~Star God Academy Field~  … Finally, there she is. Man, it’s getting harder to track down the ones I haven’t met with… although I guess that kind of makes sense… I’m really tired.[Male Student]: It’s all a misunderstanding! Miyo! Please don’t break up with me! [Female Student]: Liar! You cheated on me! I’ll kill you! Before you ask it in the thread (or go back and check if you’re reading this on the Archive), no, these are not the same two students from Lillith/Lillie’s bonding event. Those two were named Mitchie and Tak. These two are apparently a different couple going through a break up because the dude allegedly cheated on the girl. High school was fun. …[Male Student]: Calm down, Miyo! Please don’t kill anyone! [Female Student]: I’ll kill you then myself! I’ll die and curse you! And that woman! Aaaahhh! Does this stuff just happen every day in this place? *sigh* Well, at least Mirei is right there. She’ll— —do nothing, apparently.*Itsuki heads over to figure out what the hell is so engaging that Mirei can tune out some girl screaming about a double murder suicide.* Uh, hey, Mirei? Oh, it’s you, Itsuki. I was just reading an interesting academic paper. Do you not hear what’s going on right in front of you? Shouldn’t you be doing something about it? Why should I mediate someone else’s fight? Well, she’s kind of yelling about killing herself… and also at least two other people. Then how about you stop them?She’s got you there, Itsuki. Isn’t that part of your duties or something? Don’t the Star Maidens help the people? Like say, by stopping them from killing themselves? If she really intends on killing herself, she wouldn’t say it, she’d just do it. Perhaps, but see the thing about psychology is that it isn’t an exact science. Isn’t that right? You there! The female student![Female Student]: Wh-What?! Leave me alone! If you really want to die, I have this magic potion I’ve been developing. Your head will fall right off without any pain or suffering. Would you like to try it?[Female Student]: N-No… I’m fine… Uh, let’s go. [Male Student]: S-Sure… Sorry about this…  …You win this time, psychology. Goodness… This love thing is so foolish. Because of those two, I’ve wasted some of my time. I think it’s foolish, but what do you think, Itsuki? Would you waste your precious time over useless things like love? I don’t think it’s useless or a waste of time. I think it’s important. Well, it’s like… Love is a sign of a strong bond between people that help and support each other. In order to build up a bond and maintain it, you need to invest time into it, right? That’s what God’s Gifts and Star Maidens have to do for example, and they are responsible for saving the world. I mean, let’s not even get started on what kind of anarchy ridden hell hole the human world would turn into without love. I see. It’s interesting to hear opinions other than my own. That’s not enough to change my mind… But I thank you for stating your opinion. No problem. Not sure what I said made complete sense, but if you got something out of it anyway then that’s great. Well, never mind this. My own research takes priority above all else. I’ve finally found the subject… that I want to research the most, and they’re right in front of me. …Wait, what? Heheheh… You’re an unknown. There’s no subject of research more interesting than you. Uhh, hold on a second. I’m not that interesting of a guy. I’m kind of plain, actually. I will find out everything there is to know about you as God’s Gift. That is the research I want to do most right now. That’s why I will be proactive with you in the Classmating ritual. The other Star Maidens seem to be embarrassed about it, but not me. In exchange, I hope you’ll cooperate with my research. I’m getting sort of unsettled by the way you’re looking at me. Don’t worry. I may call it research, but I won’t be doing anything scary to you. So please, rest assured. Heheheh… (Why me? What the hell did I do to deserve all of this? Well… I said I was going to give this my all and I need the support of Star Maidens, so…) I guess I don’t really have a choice. Alright, we’ll help each other. Heheheh. Now I have your permission. H-Hey! You said no scary stuff! Itsuki. That was a joke. If you’re going to joke, then could you at least make an appropriate face? Otherwise I’m going to think you’re completely serious. Heheh. Very well. I’ll work on that. I must go to class now, so I will excuse myself. I hope we will get along. I’m looking forward to many things from you. Heheh… I’m going to regret this…Well, at least she’s not Ruby. That’s all I personally wanted from this character. Any other positives are just icing. ~Church Spirit Chamber~ Hm… The Classmating ritual, I see. Hm? … Something wrong? Why are you staring at me like that? Whoa! Hey! Wh-Why are you touching my face like that?! Don’t move. Yes… You are incredibly tense. Your cheek muscles have hardened, and your temperature is high. Your pulse is fast as well. Are you nervous? Uh, yes? Obviously. Why is that? Because, it’s uhh… I mean, I’m Classmating with you. With me…? What an interesting opinion. Why would you be nervous Classmating with me? Th-That’s… Okay, I’m going to be blunt. You’re kind of hot. Plus you’re getting up in my face and touching me and I’m getting super uncomfortable. Hm. I don’t know about my own appearance…Yeah, you sure look like someone that doesn’t care.  Kind of. Well, how about it? How am I compared to other Star Maidens? Does it make you nervous thinking of what we are about to do? Hm? Yes. That’s why I try and focus on other stuff during these rituals. But you are making that really hard right now because you are getting way too close! Oh, really? You’re so strange. All right. Then should I wait until you’ve calmed down? Let’s just… Let’s just get it done before I lose whatever nerve I have left. I see… Then shall we, Itsuki? Let’s begin.*And then completely dry, scientific, passionless Classmating happens. I presume*  Does this help your research? Yes, of course. It was an extremely exciting experience. If you weren’t here, I never would have been able to experience it. I thank you for that. Now then, I need to make progress on my research with this interesting experience. Let us meet again. *sigh* Glad I could be of use.~Star God Academy Classroom~ Itsuki, can I ask you to do some physical labor for me? Oh, Mirei. Yeah, I guess so. What kind of physical labor? Oh, that’s all? Yeah, I can do that. Let me see. I knew I could count on you. I’m glad I asked you. I would appreciate if you could open it for me. I think you’re going a little overboard with this. It’s just a lid on a jam jar. I was going to be in trouble if you refused. Now hurry and open it. Right away. Okay, okay. Relax. Let’s see, just—Hrgh! drat, that’s really on there. I wish you luck. Try to open it no matter what. I really want some jam with my bread. God, who the hell screwed this on? Let me get a better grip… Hrrrggghhh! There! Got—*The screen shakes a little and goes white for a second* Well done. You have my thanks. *cough* Ugh. Mirei? What the hell was in that jar? I tried to make it instantaneous, but you’re still conscious, I see. I should up the concentration for it. Hmm, but that may make it fatal. Wh-Why the… hell… I prefer margarine on my bread. please… let me land… on something soft…*And our hero once again drops like a stone. This is becoming a concerning trend with him* ~???~ Ugghhh… I didn’t land on something soft, did I? Good morning, Itsuki. How do you feel? I’d like your opinion as your monitor. I may be able to use this sleeping medicine for insomniacs after all.I’ve got a feeling that near instant sleeping gas isn’t a good long term solution for minor ailments. Where… where did you take me? Wait… did you strap me to this table?! Yes, I tied you down. It’s no ordinary restraint. I used Star Energy with it. You can’t tear it off by force, so it’s futile to fight it. Hold on, what are you planning on doing to me…? Heheheheh… You said you would let me research you as God’s Gift. And you said no scary stuff! Heheh… There’s no need to be afraid. I just want to know more about you…  Whoa! Wait just a second! I’m not okay with that! Yes… An interview. What type of place is Sora? What living environment did you inhabit? There are many things I need to ask you. You’re quite an interesting subject. Oh thank god, that’s what you meant. Mirei, if you just wanted to ask me questions then all you had to do was just ask. You also don’t need to tie me down to do it. That’s not true. Research materials are always restrained. Let me rephrase that. I don’t want to be strapped to a table. It’s all right. You’ll get used to it soon. First, what is your favorite…*And then the screen fades to black for a moment as Mirei bombards Itsuki with questions* …I see. So that is how you spent your childhood. Next question. How much longer is this going to take? I have plenty of other questions. Do you want to quit? …Well, if you take these straps off then I’ll be more comfortable and-- I refuse. That would ruin the mood of the experiment. The restraints won’t kill you, so be patient with me. Now then… Itsuki, I hear boys your age have an overactive libido.  Books? Mirei, you’re talking to a guy from 2019. That poo poo is all digital, baby. I-Is that really something that you need to know?! Hm…? You’re nervous. C-Could you please back off a little? You’re face is way too close. Hm. This is interesting. Your reaction changed again. Is it because my face is closer to yours? Hm? You’re turning red. Are you getting a fever? I see. This is interesting. When you move your face closer to God’s Gift, changes occur in his body. Being God’s Gift has absolutely nothing to do with that. All right. I’ve found out many things about God’s Gift today. Let’s call it a day. That’s a great idea. Let’s do that.*And Mirei proceeds to wander off* I’ll have to organize all the data I’ve obtained… Hey! I’m still tied down! Mirei!Funny stuff. Oh well, at least she isn’t doing actual experimentation on him. He’s going to be getting enough physical punishment from the dungeons as it is.  Speaking of, we should have Itsuki check in with the palace medic.  ~Star God Academy Clinic~  Oh, what’s wrong? It’s been a tough week trying to get used to all of this stuff. But that’s not why I’m here. At least not this time. I just wanted to learn a bit more about you. Are you busy? A doctor is always busy in this world. Thought, as the Scorpio Star Maiden, I do have some freedom. Would you like some coffee. No thanks. I don’t want to interrupt you if you’ve got stuff to do. Haha… You’re so considerate in such strange ways. How about we chat a little? Is there something you want to talk about? I’ll answer anything. Well, if you’re sure. How about telling me about this place? Haha… Are you that interested in my office? Sure, I’ll tell you about it.  I’m relieved to hear you understand such a principle. You sound more like a teacher than a doctor. Is that a compliment…? Well, I suppose I should take it as such. We have to deepen our bond together after all… Should I tell you more about myself considering the question you asked? That’s the idea. Haha… You’re an honest one. I’m a palace physician, but I’m also the public health doctor of this academy. Managing the health of the Star Maidens and God’s Gift is my main job.  As well, as the Scorpio Star Maiden, I will do the Classmating ritual with you. Well? How about it? Does that satisfy your request? Right. So you’re the doctor. Yes. That is the most important detail for you to know. My duty is to monitor your health. If you ever feel ill, even just a little, come to me. I won’t consider it trouble no matter the case. Just assume I’m your personal physician. Is there anything else you want to ask me? Um, th-that’s way too much information. I’m good. Oh, that’s too bad. I’m actually quite proud of my body. No matter. Come back next time so we can chat over some coffee. I’m usually here. Right. I’ll be sure to come by again. Yes. I hope to build a fantastic relationship with you.  Goodbye now. Please look after yourself.So despite Reone being the Star Maiden we’ve spent the most time with (outside of maybe Mahiru), the only thing we really know about her is still that she’s a doctor. She is surprisingly tight-lipped when it comes to herself. Maybe Classmating will change that. ~Church Spirit Chamber~ Are you ready to do the ritual today? Haha… So you’ve finally picked me. It took you long enough. I thought you might be teasing me. Focus, Reone. No, it’s more like I needed time to… prepare. So, how do you want to do it today? Should I take the lead? This is our first time doing the ritual. You aren’t the least bit nervous? The others seemed kind of hesitant about it. Why would I hesitate at the chance to create Star Children that will help save lives? Don’t say such uncouth things right before the ritual. You should just focus on making our hearts entwine. Huh, you have a point there. I don’t feel as nervous when I think of it like that. Still, this Is our first time, I’m not sure if I know you well enough to do this very well. Oh, don’t overcomplicate things. All you have to do is react in the heat of the moment. It’ll make the Star Children we create even stronger. Many other factors are at play, sure, but this is the foundation. I’ll pretend I know what you are talking about. …I know. How about we do a test run? Once again, not my typo. I should make an icon or something that I can pop in every time a Spike Chunsoft grammar error happens. We’ve quickly reached a point where it’s impossible to tell their fuckups from mine. I’ll accept it no matter what it may be. Here, try it out. I don’t think that’s a great idea. I only manage to get through these things by not imagining. Thinking about us kissing or something wou— Oh, you’re a bold one. Of course. Come here. Here, pull your chin back… and don’t close your eyes. H-Hey! That wasn’t a suggestion, that was— Mm… Haha… Well? It’s our first time, so I hope you’re satisfied with it being on the forehead. (My heart feels like it’s going to explode…) I-Is stuff like that really going to help make stronger Star Children? If your desire to kiss was true, then yes. But that all depends on your emotions. This should go well, at least with me. That’s really all it takes? What do you mean? Just thinking out loud. Is that your gut instinct as a God’s Gift with first-hand experience? I don’t have any experience with it all. But that ends today. I hope we both can learn so much from today’s ritual. I’ll take the lead at the start, then we’ll just go with the flow. What do you think? I may not have the experience, but I do have some knowledge. A-Are you sure? Haha… I’m confident of it. I’m sure I can satisfy you. Now shall we begin? …Please be gentle.*Classmating, you know the drill* Phew… Did it go okay? It was fine. I think it went better than expected considering this is our first ritual. But I was expecting more. Haha… In other words, I wasn’t good enough for you? Don’t say it like that. I would’ve liked it if you lasted a little longer.It’s not sex, game. You established that. Piss off with this “Haha, premature!” crap. But, you’re still young, so we can’t help that.Also piss off with this “Reo is a cougar/maneater” crap. She’s like 23, at best. Also she’s a virgin, which the story took great and unwelcome pains to explain to us. Right, right. I’ll remember that for next time. Haha… I hope so. I’ll go on ahead. I still have some work to do. I’ll see you around.~Star Academy Clinic~ Reone, are you there? Oh, you’re here again. What’s the matter today? You don’t look ill. Looks can be deceiving. The other Maidens have been… I don’t want to say dangerous, but there’s no better word coming to mind right now. Anyway, I figured I should see you. Haha… I suppose there isn’t anything fun about visiting a doctor’s office.  I do have to perform regular examination on your body… That’s fine with me. Between the headbutt to the chest I took from Tarua and the sleeping gas from Mirei… and also that time I passed out in front of the church; I could use a once over. What do I need to do? Take off your clothes and stand in front of me. I pour Star Energy into my stethoscope… and by touching your body, I’ll know if each part is functioning correctly.Wow, we’ve got a true medical professional here, folks. Wonder how many years of medical school it took for that PhD.? You’re still young, so I’m sure the examination will be over rather quickly. Does my age really have anything to do with that? Of course it does. Boys your age are the easiest to examine. Even if I’m a little aggressive, your body will react appropriately. Don’t tell me you feel embarrassed in front of a doctor.I have serious questions about the quality of Granvania’s healthcare services. Okay, calm down. Just give me a minute. I’m glad to see how obedient you are. I was curious what I’d have to do if you resisted like the first time we met. That incident is exactly the reason why I’m not resisting this time. …There, done. Well, I do recommend you take everything off for the test. Not happening. Oh, that’s too bad… Well, if that’s what the patient requests. I’ll start with your back. You can stay standing for this.*Reo wanders around to the back of Itsuki* I’m going to start the palpation now. … Wh-Whoa! What the hell are you doing?! Why are you crying out? Why the hell does my back feel wet?! That’s just how it is. I’m inserting Star Energy into your body.Reminds me of the time I went in for an MRI of the head a few years back. The contrasting agent you are given causes this really weird wet/water sensation that rolls through your body when the scan actually happens. However, unlike Reone, actual doctors tell you about that poo poo before you feel it so you don’t get freaked out. Hm… Your back seems fine. I’ll check your front now.*Reone comes back into frame* I’ll begin with your stomach. If you feel any heat in your body, tell me where it’s coming from. Well? Do you feel any heat around your stomach?  Well, my face feels like it’s on fire. Oh, you’re right. Your face is bright red. But that’s definitely not from an illness. Haha… You’re so cute. Look at you getting all bashful.*The screen fades to black as the examination takes place* Whew… Your body is as healthy as they come. That’s a bit of a surprise, although it’s a good surprise. You can put your clothes back on now… Finally. Don’t need to tell me twice. I love people with such defined clavicles. Uh, thanks? I don’t think I’ve ever had someone compliment me on them.Everyone has a fetish for some body part, I suppose. Gonna be honest, first time I’ve heard of this one though. You’re only the second person I’ve ever complimented, you know. Second? Yes, the second. …You see that photo? The person next to me was the first. Now he had some solid clavicles. You look different. How long ago was that taken? That was before I became a physician, so it’s been about five years since then.Right, so when you were between 17 and 19? Meaning you’re between 22-24 or something now? Or did you take a few years off after high school. No way in hell that you spent 10 years in medical school. Not with that magic “this will tell me anything that’s wrong with you” stethoscope. …I think you resemble the boy in the picture, if only a little. Ever since I met you, that’s been on my mind. There’s something about you two that’s just so similar… Oh, I’m sorry… I suppose you don’t like being compared to others. Kind of depends on who I’m being compared to. I suppose you can rest assured then. In my book, he’s one of the best I know. So who is he, anyway? You look pretty close. Well… I’ll leave our relationship to your imagination. A woman always has her secrets.Hm… This is a tough one. I originally thought “mentor”, but she calls him “boy”, so that can’t be it. Itsuki didn’t say anything about him looking similar to her, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not her brother. I tried zooming in on that picture, but I can only make out one person, not two, so I’m not sure if that’s the photo she’s referring to or if there is another one offscreen that we don’t see. It’s between “first love” and “little brother.” …Screw it, give me twenty on little brother. That “A woman always has her secrets thing” sounds like a red herring/teasing. I’m guessing “little brother that got sick and died which motivated Reone to become a doctor.” Fair enough. If you don’t want to talk about it then I won’t try and pry it out of you. Oh, come now, don’t pull away there. You’re no fun. But… I guess you’re similar in that way too. Well when you say it like that, I do kind of want to know more. Haha… We can save that for next time. Until then, just be careful you don’t injure your handsome clavicles. If you promise me that, I’ll tell you who that boy is. That’s a tougher promise to keep than you would think, but sure. I’ll be careful with them. Good. You may go now. There are many things you must attend to. I’m sure you’ll put your all into it, but good luck. The future of this nation depends on you. Okay, one more to go for this update.   I heard Sue was supposed to hang out here, but I don’t see her. Maybe people were making fun or her or something?[Horse]: Brr… [Pig]: Oink oink! [Chicken]: Cock-a-doodle-doo! (Didn’t expect to see normal animals like this in a magic fantasy world. This place is just constant disappointment.) What’s wrong everyone…? Don’t get so excited.*Sue wanders into the frame* Oh, there you are. I’ve been looking for you. I wanted to say hi. …Oh. Hi. Well, I have to go and take care of them.[Horse]: *neigh* [Pig]: Oink oink! [Chicken]: Cock-a-doodle-doo!  You take care of all the animals here? Is this your farm? Yes. They’re all my friends. I take care of them every day. …They don’t belong to the academy. I brought them from home. Oh, that’s cool. I’ve worked with animals before. They’re pretty cute. …Yes, very cute. No one really praises them. They make loud noises all the time. That’s why… Hm, thank you. Do you want to know their names? Yeah, sure. What are they? …Let me introduce you. [Horse]: *neigh*! That is a badass horse name. This one is Kere-Kere…[Chicken]: Cock-a-doodle-doo! Eh, not quite as awesome. This one… is Algernon.[Sheep]: Baaaah! Those are… interesting names. …Yeah. They’re all very well-behaved. Itsuki, can I ask you for something?Whoa, whoa. Hold up. What about the cow that is clearly there in the background? Does she not have a name? Of course. What is it? I’ll fulfill my mission… as a Star Maiden. But to me, taking care of them is most important. Part of it is because I love them, but… I do want to become a zoologist.At least someone around here has some aspirations. Really? My duty as a Star Maiden is secondary. My animals take priority… Is that okay? Yeah, I don’t see a problem with that. …Really? Of course. We can work the Classmating rituals around your schedule. I have plenty of things to keep me busy when you aren’t available. So whatever is most convenient for you. Thanks… You’re very kind. I’ll try to help out as much as I can. Are you done saying hi? Yeah, that’s enough for today. I won’t keep you any longer. I’ll drop by again some other time. Yes. If we talk some more, can we make stronger Star Children? I think that’s generally how it works. Alright. I’ll see you later, Sue. Yeah. Bye…Okay, a little quiet maybe, but at least that was just a completely normal conversation. No weird head patting or split personalities or sexual harassment or kidnapping or random denials of arson. Let’s see if we can keep that up, okay Sue? ~Church Spirit Chamber~ Thanks for coming, Sue. Could I ask you to try the Classmating ritual today? Okay… I’ll do it. Well yeah, but don’t you need to mentally prepare or something first? …Why would I need to do that? I’ll be fine. Do you need to mentally prepare? Normally I would, but you’re being oddly normal about this. Are you not nervous or anything? …No. This is like caring for my animals. I will take care of you and make Star Children. …It’s the same. We’re all animals anyway. …Well, you got me on that one. I’ll do the ritual with you and make tons of kids. Okay, just so we’re clear: Classmating and animal mating are not the same thing. It’s very important that you understand that. If you want to wait to Classmate… then I’ll wait too. But if you’re ready, let’s hurry up. H-Hey! Slow down!*Classmating happens. There’s only so many ways I can say that* … *sigh* There, all done. At least it feels like it’s getting easier. I’m not as tired as I used to be. Hm? What’s wrong, Sue? …This is strange. It feels strange… deep in my heart. Maybe you’re getting sick? It feels ticklish and… warm. It’s just weird. Are you sure you’re not having heart flutters or something? You’re the only Star Maiden so far to say something like this. I don’t… dislike this feeling. Well, as long as you’re okay with it then I guess it’s fine. Still think you should have Reone check you over though. Yeah, I’m all right… So, do you want to do it again? Take it easy. This is fine for now. I’ll ask you again some other time. I need to go back to my animals… Bye.I feel like Sue is taking the “mating” part of “Classmating” too literally. Oh well, now that she knows how it works it should make things a little less awkward. ~Sue’s Ranch House~ …Rottweiler. I know it’s cold, but I need to trim your wool a bit. What are you up to, Sue? If you get puffier, you can’t move.  Oh, Itsuki… Is something wrong? Nothing wrong. I just stopped by to see you. You seemed pretty focused on whatever you’re doing there. My sheep, Rottweiler, won’t let me trim his wool. He’s resisting so much, so I’m just going to do it tomorrow. You trim the sheep, too? Yeah. There’s more to taking care of my animals besides just feeding them. What they produce is really popular. I can deliver it to stores around town. It’s also used in the cafeteria. That meat line would be funny, but also super mean. Let’s not be mean to Sue. She’s been all right so far. You mean like eggs and milk and stuff? Yeah. Have you tried them at the cafeteria? The flan and white sauce pasta are both really good. Can’t say I have, but thanks for the recommendations. You sure seem happy when you’re talking about your animals. Yeah. I’m happy that everyone acknowledges them. The stuff they make is really popular. So I’m happy too. Sounds like a tough job, though. Not a people person, huh? I guess you don’t like to talk. Really? Am I not talking normally to you? No, that’s not what I meant. I’m okay with talking. Especially to animals. Talking to people… not so much.  That’s why I don’t like talking to people. Or with you… Oh… Should I stop then? No… This is just my own preference. I have my duty as a Star Maiden. Don’t mind what I just said. Just do what you want. I see…And then the scene just kind of ends. Official Itsuki just says “Sue…” and the event is over. Kind of a bummer, but whatever, we can’t stop to mull it over right now.  We’ve still got three more Maidens to go, after all. The last three in fact. Next update we’ll wrap up the Maiden Bonding with Farun, Collette, and Yuzuha. Then we’ll finally, mercifully, be ready to start building Star Child teams so we can get started on this world saving business. Psycho Knight fucked around with this message at 18:53 on Feb 23, 2020 |
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Dec 3, 2019 23:43
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This is like Database Culture: The Game, none of these people seem like people. CII has this problem but it was way better than this, here they barely feel like people, just bundles of cliches. I guess at least Reone is cool with being in a relationship so we don't have to explain the birds and bees to at least one of our choices. Though I use the word relationship hella loosely.
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Dec 4, 2019 00:06
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Is horrible and emotionally repulsive people just a 'thing' now? It may be confirmation bias, but it feels like here and other anime games that awful people are just... popular.
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Dec 4, 2019 00:11
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It's what happens when you cobble together a bunch of cliches into a character mad libs style, because those are what makes popular marketable characters dontchaknow, and then try to write the story around them. The end result is a cast which is even more socially inept than your main character, who end up being absolutely insufferable to be around. Because what made similar characters likeable compared to them were flaws, likeable traits, tragic backstories that were carefully developed instead of dumped and a proper reaction from the rest of the cast. But that poo poo takes time and effort and you have 12 of these loving people to write a story around so you get this kind of crap. You also need them to be nerd bait so you'll never have the MC actually reply to the promiscuous character "oh hell yeah I'm dtf as all hell because I'm a teenager with more hormones than sense" because that's actual sex, intimacy and relationship quandaries that your average anime audience will lose their poo poo over it.
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Dec 4, 2019 00:22
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Three more to go. And no I'm not counting whoever's the Serpent Bearer. Ooh, odd question; do all the characters' birthdates match up with their zodiac signs? If so, wouldn't the inclusion of a 13th sign throw off what signs everyone corresponds to? EDIT: Okay, I've done some digging around and for whatever reason, there doesn't appear to be a corresponding birthdate for all characters involved... That's... kinda a letdown. AnAnonymousIdiot fucked around with this message at 02:41 on Dec 4, 2019 |
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Dec 4, 2019 00:59
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I won't lie, I like Mirei--she reminds me of Yuina in vibratingsheep's Tokimeki Memorial LP. If there's even a chance we'll be attacked by koalas somewhere on Mirei's route, then I am all for it.
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Dec 4, 2019 02:41
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To recap, we have: -A church lady -A clumsy, squirely, tomboy-ish..I'm not sure what? -A split personality -A "Tsundere" -A rich, popular, and spoiled Cat-girl -Your childhood sister/cousin/friend who had a lobotomy -The curious doctor -The "experienced" doctor -The animal Doctor What's left: -A clinically depressed person or "ugly girl" (with a tragic backstory, though that might've already been covered). Usually has glasses -A super cheerful person who's also kinda naive -A clinical Strategist who takes everything super seriously and has no time for fun. You show her how to have fun. -A chronically lazy person who only does things if you yell at her -A "special" person or alien who has no idea how life and society works (may also be kinda shy). You end up taking her out for ice cream and she's fascinated by it. -A muscle-bound boastful jock-type who wrestles bears for fun and could snap you like a twig. You two go out for a few beers -A dark, brooding, cursed, evil-type who may be plot relevant (i.e. Magus from Chrono Trigger, but a girl) -A mutant/hybrid/monster/elf who's last of her tribe and constantly bullied because she looks different/can do magic -A groupie who won't leave you alone because you're her idol -An opportunist who's mainly in it for profit and movie rights.. Did I miss any?
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Dec 4, 2019 03:00
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mastersord posted:Did I miss any? I think Yuzuha fits the first one a little, but the other two don't really match up with what you have. Farun is peppy and teasing, but she mainly just wants to do this whole Star Maiden thing and get back to her traveler life. Collette is hard to pin down. I wouldn't say she's in it for profit though, at least no more so than any other person whose life depends on their business paying the bills. AnAnonymousIdiot posted:Three more to go. And no I'm not counting whoever's the Serpent Bearer. The art book might have it, but that only came with the Special Edition, which I did not get. NiS America apparently cut a deal with Spike Chunsoft and so the SE is only sold on NiS's online store which always sells everything ridiculously overpriced and is prohibitively expensive for anyone outside of the US. But yes, the addition of the 13th Maiden does push around the usual Star Sign dates. I'll post the revised whenever she is introduced. I know I shift from being a Taurus to an Aries under the alternative astrology calendar. As for the Maidens, although there are no specific dates that we can find, it's safe to say that they were born in the related month. There has to be some reasoning to Star God's madness. On the other hand, the 13th Maiden’s addition implies that humans have control over the actual arrangement of dates, at least a little. For example, what happens if the Serpent is introduced and someone that was a Scorpio shifts to Serpent while the Scorpio Star Offering is out of order? Can that person go back to loving? Does the monster making sex energy know that it needs to go to the Serpent Star Offering now? In terms of the cliche storm characters, you kind of need to accept that when getting in to these kinds of games. As Neoman said, the idea is to lay out everything about a character up front so that the player can latch on to whatever type tickles their particular fancy without dumping time into actually getting to know someone they might not like. Generally the cliches tend to fade away as a character's arc progresses. Key word is generally. One of the main reasons I hate Tsunderes is that it's one of the types that rarely shifts to the background. The trait is always front and center and taking attention away from characterization. It's not just a "dating sim for guys" thing either. I play some Otome games as well and they like to do the same thing, although they prefer to have a lot of the guys be very similar in the sense that many of them are gentle or soft spoken. Then they'll have the one bad boy in there because of contractual obligations. Otome games tend to have less extreme variety in characters. Anyway, as I keep saying, characters in these types of games tend to get more interesting and likeable as their arcs progress. I'm not saying these 12 will follow that, but there's still hope. Now that their  personalities have been established, my hope is that the bonding will move on to establishing some actual character or backstory.
Psycho Knight fucked around with this message at 04:15 on Dec 4, 2019 |
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Dec 4, 2019 04:06
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These didn't seem that bad at all. Mirei is a tad bit on the freaky side, but it's nothing compared to the unfortunate mess that is Lillie. Reone and Sue are both mostly normal, though the latter seems a bit young. It's relieving to know that not everyone is terrible. The only person I'm leaning towards the most is Arie, mostly because she's rather simple and non-alarming so far.
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Dec 4, 2019 04:44
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Well, gently caress me I'm genuinely, unironically liking Miriel's general creepiness and demeanor. Now I have to check my temperature to make sure I'm not catching clichéitis or something similar. The nurse I don't particularly like or dislike and Sue feels too normal for a game like this.
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Dec 4, 2019 21:53
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I definitely want our friendly local kidnapper as one of the focus characters (no, really, I do). Sex pest, not so much. Sue I could take or leave but so far she'd be my second choice just because almost everyone else has been awful.
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Dec 5, 2019 01:26
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Bonding Update IV: Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces Finally, we’re down to the last three Star Maidens. At the end of the this update we’ll finally be able to get down to benching some of them, which will probably be an easier process than I initially expected because the thread so far has been apathetic at best about the 9 ladies we’ve been introduced to so far.  Maybe we can turn the mood around with Farun.  ~Tavern~ (Sure is busy in here… Then again, Narcisstes said that there’s a sex ban in place for the time being, so I guess hitting the bar is the only way to take the edge off.) Here! An’ for you, mister! I got your booze right here! Huh? The order’s wrong? You didn’t order any booze? Oh, who cares! You’re a man, ain’t ya? Drink up!One of our heroines, ladies and gentlemen. Encouraging drunkenness among the sex deprived populace. Oh. Wait… Hey. Sorry, I’m not here as a customer this time. Oh, is that so? Then… it’s ‘bout that thing, huh? Oh, I see… So it’s finally come… I… what? I’m Itsuki, remember? The whole God’s Gift thing. The world ending danger. That stuff? Oh, yeah, God’s Gift. Hehe. Just kiddin’. I do remember ya. Just have a seat. You’ll be getting’ somethin’ to drink, right? Uh, no. I’m not here to drink. I believe I just said that. I’m here to see you, Farun.I want to point out that Official Itsuki says something along the lines of “I’m not old enough to drink, yet.” Why is every JRPG protagonist such a loving square? I know the out-of-universe explanation, which is that the drinking age in Japan is 20 (kind of like how legal age in media is always 18+ because of SoCalization – Side Note: Don’t TV Tropes that right now. I know it’s tempting, but at least finish this update first). It just weirds me out for fantasy settings like these. Farun looks like an elf or something for God’s sake. Does her lifespan directly correlate? Oh? So ya came to see me, huh. Tryin’ to sound all handsome an’ everythin’. I’ll have ya know I’ve heard that a million times already. If you’re tryin’ to hit on me, ya should think of somethin’ more unique. Not really why I’m here. Ahaha. Gotcha. Have a seat for now, Itsuki. Let’s have a chat. Ya know? For the future. Hehe. Um, let’s see. Should I introduce myself again? That would be a start. We can keep going from there. I’m Farun. I’m a dancer, but I’ll do my best as a Star Maiden too. Didn’t you say you were a traveler? Hmm. I guess I’m both. I travel from place to place often.  That’s me, Farun. Ahaha. An’ yet, when I came here, they suddenly told me I’m a Star Maiden an’ stuff. They even put me in an academy to boot. Gimme a break, ya know? That’s why I have high hopes for ya. Uh, for me? Why? I mean, other than the obvious. Just go an’ save the world in a jiffy! Then I can go back to travelin’. Correct me if I’m wrong, but don’t Star Maidens have to perform duties and protect the Star Offerings or something for the next 120 years? What? Really? I didn’t hear ‘bout that… Hold up! Gimme a break! Well, not for a while anyway. I think. Not really sure what happens to you when the 120 years have passed. I still have so many places I wanna go to! I can’t just stay in one place forever! Not really sure what to tell you. I’m just repeating the stuff that Narcisstes, Reone, and Mana said. Hmm… This is bad. I better go an’ talk to the big wigs at the castle. Anyway, Itsuki! I’ll need your help! Go beat up the bad guys an’ save the world or whatever! I’m countin’ on ya! I’m going to do my best. Hmm. Ya don’t sound very dependable. I’m not exactly the kind of person that hypes himself up like that. Yeah, I can tell as much. Anyway, I hope we can get along. I’ll try cooperatin’ as much as I can. It’ll end up helpin’ me too. M’kay, well… That’s that. See ya later!I don’t know Japanese well enough to tell if Farun’s lines are written with a “Kansai Accent” in mind, or if they are just generally informal. The localization seems to treat it as such though, with the way that Farun’s lines have been translated. Farun’s English VA is also Tia Ballard, who is from Texas (although I’m playing this in Japanese, so I don’t know if she actually uses the Texan accent). On the other hand, the Japanese VA for Farun is Kazusa Aranami, who is from Chiba (near Tokyo). ~Church Spirit Chamber~ Oh well, not that it matters. I just point it out because Farun is really the only one with an “accent”, at least in terms of what comes across in text. It also pisses me off because I constantly have to correct myself while transcribing her dialogue due to the incorrect spellings. I see. So you’re here for the Classmatin’ ritual. I see, I see. So we do it here. Uh-huh. I see… I see… Hmm… Are you doing okay? Hm? What do ya mean? Huh… or maybe they were going for a Cockney accent? Is “cheeky” something that Southern Americans typically use? Don’t ya worry ‘bout me! Big Sis Farun will take care of everythin’! (I really wish Narcisstes hadn’t put that “family” thing in their heads. It’s making this so umcomfortable.) Okay, well if you’re sure then I guess we should start. Oh… S-Sure. I guess so… … What is it? I thought you were okay? Y-Yeah, I am. I did say that… It’s ‘kay… It’s ‘kay… Then should we start? … Farun? …S-Sorry! H-Hold on just a sec! Really! Just a sec! *inhale*… Whew… *inhale*… Whew… I think I saw you doing that breathing technique just outside as well. Are you sure it’s okay? Th-That was before we came to the church! An’ this is… just… preparation. U-Ugh… I think we should try this some other time. You seem like you’re freaking out a bit. O-Okay! I’m okay! I’m okay now! Alright, let’s try this again then. …’kay. Let’s do this! Bring it on! Let’s get on with the Classmatin’ ritual! I’m trying! Try and relax a little.*Classmatin’* Huff… Huff… Huff… Do you feel okay? Y-Yeah… But I was… surprised with a ton of stuff there. Phew… But that should do it! Yeah! So, how was it, Itsuki? How’d I do? (…That means she doesn’t actually want the truth, right? I think that’s how it works when talking to girls. Just, say something nice. Be positive.) I think you did great. Hehehe… Dummy, don’t say that with such a straight face. No, I mean it. Uh-huh… I see, I see. Well, I guess it doesn’t feel too bad to hear that. All right! Well, that’s it for today! Phew. It’s finally done. Thanks a lot, Farun. Hm? For what? I’m doing this cuz I was chosen. Since I’m cooperatin’, I hope ya try harder. That’s the plan. Well, I gotta go to class now. See ya later!That didn’t go too badly. Probably a good idea to bring along some liquid courage next time though. She does work in a bar after all. ~Tavern~ M’kay! Here’re your drinks an’ appetizers! Hm? Yesterday’s dance? Oh, ya liked it? Thanks! I’m a professional dancer. Ya know I have the skills to show for it.*Farun then runs into frame* Oh. Hey, Itsuki! Welcome! Why does it feel like I’m invisible while I’m in here? Well, business is boomin’ here. Oh yeah, you said that you were a dancer. Yup. I go from place to place to learn an’ master all sorts of dance techniques. I really am pretty good, ya know? It doesn’t hurt ya to pay a li’l respect. Well it’s kind of hard when I haven’t actually seen your dancing. What types do you know? Tons an’ tons. There’s one for ceremonies, an’ one for banquets. I know stuff to perform at taverns like this, as well as the palace dance. Oh, that’s cool. An’… I also have a special dance. A really… really, special one. I rarely show it, if ever. Hehe. What sorta dance do ya think it is? Is it like a dance for your lover or something? Hahaha… I ain’t tellin’! This is top secret from Big Sis Farun. Well you did ask me to guess. Ahaha, sorry ‘bout that. But I didn’t think that’d be your first guess. You kind of narrowed it down quite a bit, so I just answered with what popped into my head. Hehe… Anyway, there’s this extremely special dance. I know of it, but I’ve never actually danced it.Is it the Safety Dance? The Hustle? Time Warp? Technically Itsuki could teach you a ton of dances that this world has probably never witnessed before. Can’t say that all of them are worth passing on though. Hmm… I don’t know… I don’t think I’ll ever have the opportunity. But that’s just a guess… Hehe. I wouldn’t know, but I would kind of like to see it some day. Itsuki, ya wanna see it? Hmm… I doubt it. Ahaha…  I do hope ya come to see me sometime. What do ya think?This is sounding like a marketing ploy to me. Sure. I’ll definitely try and get in. Oh, definitely, ya say? I see. Please don’t threaten me. I’ve had enough of that this week. Ahaha… But seriously, ya should come see me. I really want ya to see me dance. I’ll look forward to it. Yeah, well, that’s that then. Uh-oh. Looks like we spent too long talkin’. I need to get back to work! See ya later!And that does it for Farun. Next is…  …dammit. Quite possibly the most child looking character we’ve seen so far. That includes that little barefoot orphan girl from Ruka’s route.    Welcome! We strive to bake you joy in every loaf! Welcome to Collette’s Sweet Wheats! …Oh, its [sic] you, Itsuki.I’m just going to fall back on the tried and true sic method for every time Spike Chunsoft fucks up spelling or grammar. Or at least for every time I notice it. You’ve come all the way to my shop. Is something going on? Or were you lured in by the delicious smell of the bread wafting in the air? No, everything is fine. I just wanted to properly introduce myself. Although food does sound nice right about now. My now! I’m happy to hear you say that. Indeed, delicious bread can have that power over people. And you being lead [sic] here today isn’t just coincidence. It’s a natural phenomenon. Just like how a stone cannot resist gravity. I’m pretty sure it’s just because I missed lunch. Good sales pitch, though. Neeheehee. Of course, any and all are welcome in my bakery. Now then, please choose whichever bread you’d like. So, will you have some of my bread? My recommendation is… Hold on, bread is good, but the reason I came here was to hear more about you. We don’t really know anything about each other, which isn’t doing us any favors in the bonding department. Lunch can wait a little longer. Well, now that you mention it, that is true. Please forgive me for earlier. Well then, ahem. I’m Collette, the Aquarius Star Maiden. I run this bakery day in and day out. I’m the charismatic proprietor as well as the cute girl who works at a shop. I guess you know by now that I’m God’s Gift. I hope we can work together to solve this end of the world thing. Yes, likewise. Is it all right if I keep calling you Itsuki? That’s fine with me. Not sure I really live up to the name “God’s Gift” just yet, anyway. All right. Now then, Itsuki, let me ask you a question. What do you think of my bakery? No funny/rear end in a top hat choices here, unfortunately. You can call it “cute”, “clean”, or “nice”. (Why do they keep saying that? Uhh… quick, think of something…) It’s very… nice? Hmm, that isn’t a very satisfying answer. I want to know what you think in more refined detail. For example, the decorations are nice or the place is clean… Things like that. After all, it stands to reason that this bakery is nice. That’s because I’m the proprietor.You know Pride is one of the Deadly Sins, right? It’s also where everything went completely to poo poo in Conception II. You asked me that out of the blue. I can’t really give you a detailed answer when I’ve only been standing in here for a few minutes. I see… I’m sorry for coming at you like that after your compliment. However, when you compliment me in the future, do give me precise feedback. (Great, that’s a minefield I’ll have to wade into eventually…) I’m sorry, I got wrapped up in idle conversation. I need to start baking the next batch, so I will excuse myself. You bake and sell everything in here by yourself? Yes. I mentioned it briefly in passing before, but I run this bakery solo. I also have my duties as a Star Maiden, so I will be much busier than before. Sounds like a tough job that’s going to get tougher. Not at all. I can manage. …I know. If you’d like, please take that unsold bread home with you. It was baked this morning, but I’m sure it’s still nice and soft. Oh, well, thanks. Are you sure it’s okay for me to take it? Of course. I will receive payment for it however.Gonna bill the poo poo out of the palace for it, huh? You sure do have all your bases covered. You have to be like this if you expect to run a business well.You could also try taking some introductory economics courses. Judging by that screen shot and the fact that you mentioned unsold bread from this morning, I have a feeling you don’t quite grasp supply and demand theory.  ~Church Spirit Chamber~ Okay, Collette. It’s your turn for the ritual. So the time has come… I didn’t think for a minute that I would be selected. Please for the love of God, stop drawing attention to that. And to think I’d be made to do the ritual… You certainly are a lusty fellow. (I’m so glad that nobody from my world can see this.) Could you not say stuff like that? You’re a Star Maiden, of course you’d be selected to do this ritual. My my. I see you’re getting defensive but not denying it. So I was right. You are lusty. I’m not. At least not in regards to this ritual stuff. You may be right. Instead of lusty, you’re probably more… cocky. I suppose my cuteness has that effect on your and you can’t help yourself. What the hell are you going on about? Neehee. That was a joke. I was just joking around to lighten the tension before the ritual. I feel a bit better now. I, mean, [sic] I am at that sensitive age. I suppose I’m as nervous as anyone would be. Now then, what are we supposed to do? Wait, you mean you don’t know how this works? I just wanted to see what you were into first, then I’d come up with a plan of action. I think you’re really exaggerating what this involves. Trust me, that isn’t going to happen. I’ll make sure of it. All right. I’ll trust you. For now. It’s better to just come out with it than sit here worrying about it, right? Well, I guess in the case of this ritual, something really will come out! Please don’t phrase it like that. I beg you. Ah, right. After this ritual, you need to treat me to something. I want to have something nice to eat.Man, you are just riding this for all it’s worth, aren’t you? Normally I’d be defensive about cash, but the little bit that we do have left technically came from Mana. I have no reservations at all about blowing Mana’s money. Think of it as a treat for doing the ritual. Why do I have to treat you? This is for the sake of the world. Oh, come now. It’s just an act of kindness to me. I’m not all that hungry, so something light and simply is fine. I’ll leave you to decide. So… what? Something like bread? Is that what you’re driving at? But really? Getting bread for the girl who runs a bakery? Oh, maybe you thought I’d be happy if you suggested bread? Are you not? You’re surprisingly rude.Pot calling the kettle black, Collette. It’s not like I live solely on bread. “Man does not f-yeast on bread alone.” That’s what dieticians say as well. It’s a wonderful teaching that states that nutritional balance is important for growing girls. I’m fairly sure that you are misunderstanding that. Rather than worrying about that, I thought I said I’d like something light and simple. Pita is the only type of bread that fits that requirement. Listen, can we just focus on the ritual? Are you ready? Yes, I’ve been prepared from the start. Well then, shall we begin?*Classmating which includes a very inappropriate cutscene* Phew… Is that it? I’m really tired… That actually went a bit easier than the past few times. Th-That was easy…? I was pretty embarrassed… You’ll get used to it. I have. Mostly. Hmm, I wonder if it’s something that’s good to get used to… It’s supposed to be a sacred ritual that helps prevent danger. Oh, I know that already. Anyway, what do you want? Ah! You remembered… I think that’s a wonderful characteristic you have. Well, nice job on the ritual today.Thank god that’s over with. For now. Whatever, I’ll let future me deal with that. ~Collette’s Sweet Wheats~ Welcome! We knead happiness into your heart! Welcome to Collette’s Sweet Wheats! That’s pretty rude of you. I’m here to buy bread today. Oh, so you’re here as a customer. My apologies. Please, take your time… is what I’d like to say, but I’m going to close the shop in ten minutes. Are you going somewhere? No, but I do need to bake more bread in the back. After all, I do everything from the baking to the selling all by myself.There are a lot of bakeries like that. They still manage to actually sell poo poo while doing it though. I have a personal rule for people to only eat freshly baked bread. Must be nice to have that kind of freedom. Yes, it certainly is. Some famous person once said, “Freedom has its price.” But no matter how busy I get, thinking about that freedom energizes me. So no complaints then I guess, huh? Then everyone will be full and happy. Now then, shall I wrap up your bread? How about a bitter chocolate croissant that carrier an air of mischief with it? I’m sure if you munch on this alone in the park, you’ll get all the girls.Oh yeah, girls love a guy that sadly sits alone on a bench in the park eating chocolate croissants. Why didn’t I think of doing that? Could I just get some normal bread? In that case, the girls will be able to leave you alone.Yeah, nothing says poverty like eating chocolate covered croissants. Does all of your bread have to be eaten alone in the park? I’ve got it. In that case, I’ll throw in a heel of bread too. Just like there was the high heel boom, we’ll make a bread heel boom too. Please make a movement out of this, Itsuki. (Oh, it’s going to be a movement alright.) I guess I can do that, the talking about bread part anyway, not the “moe” part. As long as I keep getting free bread like this. Oh?! You will? If this somehow works, then the bakery’s sales will be set. I asked expecting you to say no. But you know, Itsuki… That yes-man response of yours has really moved me. That’s not a compliment, you know. That’s not true. I highly evaluate that challenging spirit of yours. Well, I’ll give you the heel for free anyway, so eat it wherever you’d like. Okay. Sorry to get in your way. Not at all. I’m sorry I wasn’t able to talk more. Please eat the heel, crumbs and all. I promise it’s very delicious.I’m going to be honest, I’m not entirely sure what the hell Collette’s character is.  Oh well. Not the time to think about that. We’ve got the  ~Star God Academy Field~ Okay, I only need to meet with one more Maiden and then I can get to work on putting together a proper team for the Labyrinths. I doubt I’m going to find that Yuzuha girl here at the academy though. She mentioned something about working at home. I should ask Reone or Narcisstes about where she lives.~Yuzuha’s Workshop~  …*sigh* Why did I have to become a Star Maiden… *There’s a sound from somewhere* …Hm? …Wh-Who’s there?*Yuzuha moves to check it out* Sorry, wasn’t trying to scare you. I was knocking at the door but you weren’t responding.…Is that a coffin bed? Um… You don’t have to say sorry… It was my fault for daydreaming… Hi, Big Brother… Did you, uh, want something from me…? I wanted to drop by and properly introduce myself. I thought you already did that the last time… Oh, you said “properly.” Okay. I guess proper salutations are needed… Um… I’m Yuzuha. I think I’m the Pisces Star Maiden… N-Nice to meet you… Nice to meet you too. Oh, yes… Nice to meet you… *sigh*… Looks like he’s not someone scary… What was that? You kind of drifted off there. O-Oh, it’s nothing… Don’t mind me. Please, continue… Okay. Well, umm… you have a lot of paintings in here. Do you do that as a hobby? It’s my job, not so much a hobby.  …But now I also have to work as a Star Maiden… *sigh*… Do you not want that? Well, I can’t help it now that I’ve been chosen… I don’t really want to, but I’ve given up on resisting. I’m really good at giving up… So please… don’t mind me, Big Brother. I’ll do my job as a Star Maiden properly. …Oh. I’m calling you “Big Brother”… Does that sound too pushy to you? Well, I know Narcisstes gave a lecture to you guys about thinking of us like a family, but I’ll be honest, the Big Brother thing is kind of weirding me out. I don’t know what else to call you… Maybe something like, “Mr. Itsuki”? Or just “Itsuki”? Mister…? Hmm… I guess I could call you that… But… that’s supposed to show seniority, right? That means I’ll have to call the other Star Maidens “Miss.” It’s an honorific, Yuzuha. You are supposed to follow it with a name when you know it, like Miss Arie or Miss Reone. I mean, Big Brother is kind of the same. A lot of guys could react to that. That’s okay. You’re the only man I know. What about Narcisstes? Hmm… He’s more like “Teacher,” or “Uncle” maybe? So I prefer to call you “Big Brother.” But, if you insist, I guess I can call you “Mister”… Honestly, ”Big Brother” just feels weird, but I guess just call me whatever you feel comfortable with. Thanks, Narc. Real good job on that stupid creepy “think of each other as family” lecture. …Um, is there something else we have to talk about? I don’t really notice these things, so please tell me. No, I just came by to say hi to you. I don’t really have any other stuff to talk about right now. Oh, okay. Sorry… I’m sure you found out today, but I’m bad at talking… So, I’m sorry… You don’t have to apologize for that. Just keep in mind that we’re going to have to talk in order to strengthen our bond. S-Sure… But it still won’t be fun talking to me. Big Brother… you have to use your time wisely… Spending time like this is wise. But I… Just don’t worry about it, okay? I decide how I spend my own time. … I’ll stop by again some other time. See you later. Okay. See you…*And Itsuki takes his leave* … “I decide how I spend my own time.”… I don’t know…Good stuff. I’m sure the Classmating ritual will go just swimmingly. ~Church Spirit Chamber~ What? W-With me…? Ugh… Big Brother… Do we really have to? Kind of, yeah. It’s part of saving the world. I won’t force you into it, though. O-Okay… Let me think… I know I shouldn’t refuse, but… You aren’t the only one. …You too? As much as me? Probably. O-Oh, really… So it’s the same for you… I’m a bit relieved to know I’m not the only one. But the other Star Maidens feel the same way, right? We all get scared and nervous… (Well, except for Mirei… and Reone I guess, but that’s beside the point.) It wouldn’t be fair if I’m the only one who doesn’t do it… Okay, I-I have to gather my courage. No problem. Are you feeling a little more ready? U-Um… I am now, but… I don’t really know how to Classmate… You too?! Is this not part of your classes or something? It seems like a major part of the Star Maiden thing. Ugh… I’m sorry.And Narcisstes just let that slide? He didn’t even try and get you to pay attention? The class only has 12 students in it, don’t try and tell me that he just didn’t notice. I had 16 in my ESL tutoring classes and I knew drat well whenever someone was passed out or not paying attention. Big Brother, this may not be your first time… But… it is for me… so… um… I understand. Just leave it all to me, okay? I’m sure I can make this work. Oh… Yes, please. I’ll do as you say… So please teach me… Please… Calm down, you can count on me. I think. Okay… Then, um… *Final introductory Classmating! …Sort of!* *sigh*… It’s finally over… I’m so sorry… I don’t think I did it well… Don’t worry about it. You get better with practice. All right, thanks… I feel so tired right now. Sure thing. Thanks for everything. Okay… Bye, Big Brother.Okay, let’s waste no time in finishing this up. ~Yuzuha’s Workshop~ O-Oh, Big Brother…? What are you doing here? I’m off from class today, so… Do you have an emergency? No, nothing like that. I just wanted to check out some of your paintings. I didn’t get the chance last time. Of course. Why wouldn’t I be? Oh, so that’s it… That’s the first time I’ve heard anyone say that. …Oh, but none of them are finished. Can I show them to you when I’m done?What about that clearly finished one above the window? The one that’s already framed? It’s a bit embarrassing, but if you want to see, I’ll let you… Oh, is saying “I’ll let you” a bit too rude? Not really. They’re yours, so it’s your call. I’ll look forward to it. I-It’s nothing to look forward to… Great. Anyway, do you live here by yourself? Oh… y-yes. Yes, I do. Going to and from here to the academy is my daily routine. I really don’t like going outside though… Why? Do you not like being around people or something? Yeah, I’m terrible with them… Before I was a Star Maiden, I never left home… so I never got used to people. That’s why if someone talks to me, I don’t know how to respond…  I don’t understand how we’re able to… Well, the fact is that you are talking with me just fine. So maybe if we keep that up then you can get used to talking to other people. I think I’ll be fine… Time passes quickly when I’m painting, and it’s fun too. I’m okay with the way things are… I think I was just born like this… That seems a bit sad, doesn’t it? Why not just keeping talking with me and the Star Maidens, then? I think that’s just a waste of your time… I told you before. The time I’m spending with you isn’t a waste. Just go for it. Oh… you’re so forceful, Big Brother. You’re the complete opposite of how passive I am…  I’ve told you already, but I’m really good at that… Whatever helps. Anyway, I’m going to head back for today. I’ll check in again later. Y-Yeah… U-Um… See you later…And that’s it, at least until Maiden 13 decides to show up. Now comes the good part (for me). Psycho Knight fucked around with this message at 18:54 on Feb 23, 2020 |
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Dec 5, 2019 23:59
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Collette.  And somebody voted for her!?
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Dec 6, 2019 02:49
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Wow, not a lot of stand-out choices. Everyone's either a walking stereotype, insufferable, or a literal child. Still, there are some that could be interesting. Holding out hope that whoever the Ophiuchus maiden is really stands out.
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Dec 6, 2019 02:57
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