[ close my eyes to hear you breathe ]
Following the useless Persona data made up for the AU with Shinjiro/Shinjibro as his sworn/adoptive brother thing, this one is the equally useless... Social Link script thing which I made up because I am lame like that.
THE HANGED MAN SOCIAL LINK
[ one | two | three | four | five | six | seven | eight | nine | ten | lovers | epilogue ]
LEVEL ONE
Just one notice before I start - in gameplay terms, Hijikata's Social Link can only be done if Shinjiro's Social Link was at least initiated.
Iwatodai Station, Hakagure...
Toshirou brought you out here after convincing him to take you with him to dinner.
HIJIKATA: ...well, I don't really know anywhere else to go, so here we are. CHOICES
> Senpai brought me here before...
> You like this place as well?
> Do you like ramen?
> Senpai brought me here before...
HIJIKATA: ...oh, did he?
> Toshirou lowers his head and falls silent for a while.
> You like this place as well?
HIJIKATA: I guess that's one way of putting it...
> A small smile can be seen on Toshirou's face. (+2)
> Do you like ramen?
HIJIKATA: ...not exactly.
> The faintest hint of a smile is seen on Toshirou's face. (+1)
HIJIKATA: Shinji brought me here all the time whenever I went to see him... he kept saying about how I shouldn't hang around that area behind Port Island Station.
> Toshirou pauses for a moment, and then smiles nostalgically.
HIJIKATA: He's always been like that as long as I can remember - even back when we were kids. Anytime I did something stupid, he'd just whip me back onto the straight and narrow. ...yeah, he's one heck of a brother. I owe him a lot, to be honest. CHOICES
> You two must be very close.
> ...brother?
> How long have you two been together?
> You two must be very close.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, we are.
> Toshirou smiles. (+1)
> ...brother?
HIJIKATA: Not blood-related. We've just been through a lot together...
> A pained look crosses Toshirou's face.
> How long have you two been together?
HIJIKATA: ...a long time. Even before we met Aki.
> Toshirou smiles slightly.
HIJIKATA: I've known Shinji for as long as I could remember. Even if we aren't blood-related, I consider him as my brother... that's why I'll make sure to do my best and fight for his sake as well.
> Toshirou looks towards you with a smile.
HIJIKATA: Having said that, I hope that I can be useful to the group, leader. CHOICES
> I'm sure you will.
> Just don't slack.
> I'm sure you will.
HIJIKATA: Hah, I hope so too.
> Toshirou chuckles softly.
> Just don't slack.
HIJIKATA: I know better than to do that, of course.
> A mildly amused look crosses Toshirou's face.
HIJIKATA: Let's just work for the best eh, leader?
> Behind Toshirou's words and actions you can sense his determination to help SEES in place of Shinjiro who is now lost... you feel that you understand him a little better now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> You have established a new Social Link!
> Toshirou finishes up the last of his ramen before looking at you.
HIJIKATA: ...well, hurry up and finish, it'll be bad if we return to the dorm late.
> You finished up your ramen and then returned to the dorm with Toshirou.
level one → level two | top
LEVEL TWO Iwatodai Station, Hakagure...
Toshirou brought you here once again for dinner.
HIJIKATA: Sorry that we're eating here again, but I need to make up for last time. CHOICES
> ...make up?
> Last time? >...make up?
HIJIKATA: Yeah, making up for what I missed.
> Toshirou has a rather serious expression on his face...
> Last time?
HIJIKATA: The last time we came here to eat, of course.
HIJIKATA: I forgot to do something when we ate here last time... so today I'm going to make up for it.
> Toshirou pulls out a large bottle from his pocket. The contents seem to look a bit like mayonnaise.
> ...you have a bad feeling about this.
HIJIKATA: Time to give this ramen some actual taste.
> ...Toshirou is now dumping the mayonnaise right into the ramen... CHOICES
> What are you...?
> What is that...?
> ...... > What are you...?
HIJIKATA: What I just said; I'm giving the ramen some taste.
> What is that...?
HIJIKATA: Hm? Mayonnaise, of course. What else could it be?
> ......
(No response)
> You watch as Toshirou dumps an inhuman amount of mayonnaise onto his ramen...
> ...for some reason, you don't feel like eating anymore.
HIJIKATA: There we go.
> You can only stare at the grotesque pile of mayonnaise that is on the bowl... CHOICES
> Can you even...
> ...... > Can you even...
HIJIKATA: Huh?
> ......
(No response)
HIJIKATA: Mayonnaise is the best thing ever created, if I have to say anything about it. There's really nothing in the world that can beat its great texture and flavour. Shinji's home-made mayonnaise is the best - he'd always make mayonnaise for me whenever I asked...
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
HIJIKATA: He'd always smack me in the head though when I did cos' he said I always ate so much. I could finish a whole bottle if I wanted to. Shinji always said I should stop because all that cholesterol would give me a heart attack... not that he could see now if I would have one or not.
> A sad look is on Toshirou's face and a sigh comes out from him.
HIJIKATA: He's done so much for me... and yet I've never done anything back in return at all... CHOICES
> But you're here now, aren't you?
> I don't think its like that. > But you're here now, aren't you?
HIJIKATA: ...well, yeah, but...
> Toshirou looks pained.
> I don't think its like that.
HIJIKATA: ...haha, how would you know? It's not like you even know what happened...
> Toshirou laughs quietly. (+1)
HIJIKATA: I owe Shinji a lot, so now that he's not here... I'll have to do my best in order to make up for him and repay for everything he did for me.
> Toshirou smiles lightly.
HIJIKATA: It's the least I should do.
> You can feel Toshirou's quiet determination to fight his battles against the Shadows for the sake of Shinjiro... you feel that you understand him a little better now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 2!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...well, I guess I should stop talking. The ramen's getting cold. Time to tuck in.
> You managed to eat your ramen despite difficulties and then returned to the dorm with Toshirou.
level one ← level two → level three | top
LEVEL THREE Iwatodai Station, Wild-Duck Burger...
You brought Toshirou here for dinner today.
HIJIKATA: Fast food, huh...? Can't say I eat it all that often. Well, a little won't hurt me much, I guess.
> Toshirou is looking at his burger rather intently...
HIJIKATA: Still, they could do with more mayonnaise around...
> Toshirou begins to eat his burger.
> ...you quickly eat your own meal as well.
[Cut-in goes here]
> Both of you have finished your respective meals.
HIJIKATA: Hah... I guess that meal wasn't that all bad. CHOICES
> You don't eat here often?
> Not a fan of fast food? > You don't eat here often?
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, not too often.
> Toshirou smiles lightly. (+1)
> Not a fan of fast food?
HIJIKATA: Well, not exactly...
> A somewhat sheepish look crosses Toshirou's face. (+1)
HIJIKATA: Shinji usually cooks for me... so I don't really come to eat at these sort of places. Besides, its unhealthy and I need to keep myself in shape for the team.
> Toshirou laughs quietly.
HIJIKATA: I know I seem intimidating to them because of how I always hang around Shinji... I can't really blame them for it - that area behind Port Island Station can get quite dangerous if you're not careful. I was okay only because Shinji was alongside me... nobody really dares to mess with him there, haha...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou looks down and heaves a sigh.
HIJIKATA: Sorry... you must be annoyed about how much I talk about Shinji... CHOICES
> It's alright, I don't mind.
> It's natural for you to talk about him.
> ...I know the feeling. > It's alright, I don't mind.
HIJIKATA: ...hah, you're nicer than I give you credit for.
> Toshirou smiles. (+2)
> It's natural for you to talk about him.
HIJIKATA: Natural, huh...
> A wry smile appears on Toshirou's face.
> ...I know the feeling.
HIJIKATA: ...oh yeah, you lost your parents. ...Sorry.
> Toshirou looks apologetic. (+1)
HIJIKATA: Shinji and I... we grew up in an orphanage together. Neither of us really know who our parents are, to be honest. Our names were given by the caretakers in there too... that's why our first names sound alike. Kind of dumb, huh? But in that way... that's how we're brothers. We've went through thick and thin together, especially when Aki came around as well...
> Toshirou has a glum expression on his face...
HIJIKATA: It's good that you still had relatives to take care of you at least... I don't even know who I am, or where I'm from. Though it doesn't really matter to me as much these days... if they abandoned me, that meant that they didn't want me anymore in the first place. So I don't really care.
HIJIKATA: Thinking about it... its kinda weird, huh? Everyone in SEES seem to have problems with their parents, or lack them at all. I suppose the only exception would be Koromaru and Aigis, since he's a dog and she's a robot... maybe only trouble people like us can get a Persona, since we go through so many hardships...
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
HIJIKATA: I guess that's just my thoughts though. Kinda negative, huh? CHOICES
> You should be more positive.
> Senpai wouldn't want you to be like this. > You should be more positive.
HIJIKATA: ...heh, I know.
> Toshirou smiles lightly. (Lovers flag number one)
> Senpai wouldn't want you to be like this.
HIJIKATA: He'd just headsmack me the moment he saw me acting like this. And maybe say something like 'Stop being an idiot'.
> Toshirou laughs quietly.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks, I feel better now talking to you like this. Its been a while since I could...
> You can feel Toshirou's gratitude for being his listening ear. As he opens up to you, you feel like you understand him a bit better.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 3!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...we should get back to the dorm before it gets too late.
> You left the place with Toshirou and headed back to the dorm.
level two ← level three → level four | top
LEVEL FOUR Port Island Station, Screen Shot Cinema...
You came here with Toshirou after deciding to go to the movies with him.
HIJIKATA: Can't say I'm really a fan of movies... but let's go in and see what's on, shall we?
> You went into the cinema with Toshirou.
[Cut-in goes here!]
> The action-packed Phoenix Ranger Featherman R movie shows the might and determination that the heroes possessed as they overcome all odds in order to fight for what they believed in so much... you can feel the immense amount of dedication and courage that the team had throughout the whole movie.
> Your Courage has increased!
HIJIKATA: ...that was a good movie.
> ...you can see Toshirou attempting to stifle the tears that are attempting to fall from the corners of his eyes... CHOICES
> ...are you okay?
> You really liked that movie, didn't you? > ...are you okay?
HIJIKATA: Huh? Oh... yes, I'm fine. Something just got caught in my eye...
> Toshirou glances away and wipes off his tears.
> You really liked that movie, didn't you?
HIJIKATA: W-What? Don't be silly, this series is just for kids. I just had something in my eye, that's all.
> Toshirou hastily looks away and wipes away his tears. (+2)
HIJIKATA: ...anyway, the movie's over. What do you say we go and get some food before heading back to the dorm?
TEENAGER'S VOICE: --hey, Hijikata!
HIJIKATA: ...damnit, why now...
> A rather threatening-looking bunch of teenagers are approaching both you and Toshirou...
GANG LEADER: It's been a while since you last dropped by here, Hijikata.
HIJIKATA: I don't have time for your bullshit. Just what do you want?
GANG LEADER: We need to settle a few scores with you, since we can't do it with that brother of yours--hrm?
> The gang leader spots you.
GANG LEADER: Well well... look who do we have here? I remember you quite well, little missy... Shinjiro stepped up to protect you and your little Gekko High classmates during that night!
HIJIKATA: ...
GANG LEADER: So, what's up now? Trying to get close to Hijikata so you can get him to protect you this time?
HIJIKATA: Enough! She's just a friend of mine, nothing more. Besides, she doesn't need to be 'close' to me just so I will protect her. As long as its anybody who's suffering from the likes of you, I will protect them no matter what.
GANG LEADER: Hah! Playin' hero now, eh? Trying to make up for all the shit that your brother did? He deserved it, if I have anything to say about--
HIJIKATA: Don't you dare talk shit about Shinji!
> Toshirou rushes forth and deals a painful punch onto the gang leader's face.
HIJIKATA: People like you will never understand the things he had to go through! CHOICES
> Calm down!
> You're going to attract attention!
> Stop it! >Calm down!
HIJIKATA: You're asking me to calm down after hearing something like that about Shinji?!
> Toshirou is still fuming.
You're going to attract attention!
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou stills.
Stop it!
HIJIKATA: After hearing this asshole speak shit about Shinji?! Not a chance!
> Toshirou doesn't seem to listen...
OFFICER'S VOICE: What's up with that commotion down there?!
GANG LEADER: Crap, its the cops... let's get out of here before they arrest us!
> The gang of teenagers fled the scene.
OFFICER KUROSAWA: ...well, its good to see that the both of you are alright. Especially you, Hijikata...
HIJIKATA: ...I'm fine, don't worry so much about me.
OFFICER KUROSAWA: Make sure to take care of yourself. I know Shinjiro's thing had a profound effect on you and all...
HIJIKATA: I can handle myself, alright?
OFFICER KUROSAWA: ...
OTHER OFFICER: Excuse me, but... when you say Hijikata, do you mean Hijikata Toshirou?
HIJIKATA: ...that would be me, yes.
OTHER OFFICER: Would you mind coming to the police station with me? I need to talk to you about something...
OFFICER KUROSAWA: Did he do something wrong?
OTHER OFFICER: No, its nothing like that. Its just concerning something that's been recently assigned to us...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou turns to look at you.
HIJIKATA: You get back to the dorm. I'll catch up once this business is done.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: Thanks for earlier.
> You feel the weight of Toshirou's gratitude for helping him out earlier just now. Through this whole event, you think you can understand him a little better than before.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 4!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: Don't worry about me; I'll be fine. [Turns towards the officers.] Let's go.
> Toshirou leaves for the police station with the two officers.
> ...you decide to return to the dorm.
level three ← level four → level five | top
LEVEL FIVE Paulownia Mall, Chagall Cafe...
Toshirou brought you here from school.
HIJIKATA: I guess this is a weird location to have a talk... hope you don't mind. CHOICES
> What's so strange about this place?
> I think its perfectly fine.
> Don't worry about it. > What's so strange about this place?
HIJIKATA: W-Well, it's just... I don't really think this place is very suitable, that's all...
> Toshirou seems to feel rather embarrassed. (+1)
> I think its perfectly fine.
HIJIKATA: Oh... well, if you say so.
> Toshirou glances away. (+1)
> Don't worry about it.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks.
> Toshirou nods. (+2)
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou keeps quiet and looks at his own cup of coffee... CHOICES
> Penny for your thoughts?
> Is there something wrong? > Penny for your thoughts?
HIJIKATA: ...you never miss a thing, do you.
> Toshirou smiles weakly.
> Is there something wrong?
HIJIKATA: ...no, not really.
> Toshirou sighs.
HIJIKATA: ...remember what happened the other day? ...the one with the gang and all that?
HIJIKATA: The officer who was asking for me the other day, well...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou hesitates... CHOICES
> What happened?
> Don't say anything. > What happened?
HIJIKATA: ...it's kind of complicated.
> Don't say anything.
[No response]
HIJIKATA: ... *sigh*
> Toshirou lets out a long sigh.
HIJIKATA: So the officer who wanted to speak to me... turns out he's been trying to find me for a while already. He said it was some favour or assignment or something like that, that part isn't important.
HIJIKATA: ...what's more important is the fact that he's been asked to find me by my birth parents.
[An '!' appears above the MC's head.]
HIJIKATA: Funny, huh? To think that my real parents would find me at a time like this... to be honest, I don't really know what to do. I mean, I do want to know them and all, but what with everything that's happened...
HIJIKATA: ...I'm not quite sure how to face them.
> Toshirou hangs his head low.
HIJIKATA: The officer said they'll be coming to see me pretty soon... I'll have to see them then. Who knows what will happen... CHOICES
> Stay positive!
> I'm sure it'll work out. > Stay positive!
HIJIKATA: ...ha, easy for you to say.
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
> I'm sure it'll work out.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, I hope so too.
> Toshirou nods. (+1)
HIJIKATA: I'll just have to see then when the day comes.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: I mostly just brought you out here so you can hear about this, since you saw everything and all. But you still helped me in the end... thanks for that, and for listening as well.
> After hearing his worries and concerns, Toshirou thanks you for helping him. Listening to his words, you feel that you can understand him a little better.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 5!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...alright, let's go elsewhere to eat something decent before going back to the dorm.
> You went to eat dinner with Toshirou elsewhere before returning to the dorm with him.
level four ← level five → level six | top
LEVEL SIX Iwatodai Station, Iwatodai Strip Mall...
You decided to come out here with Toshirou.
HIJIKATA: I'm not really the kind to go shopping, but then again its not like there's much to do for me today...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou suddenly falls silent... CHOICES
> What's wrong?
> Is something up? > What's wrong?
HIJIKATA: Huh? Oh... nothing really.
>Is something up?
HIJIKATA: ...oh. No, no its nothing.
> Despite the words however, it seems that there is still something on Toshirou's mind...
HIJIKATA: ...sorry, my mind wandered off for a bit there. [Scratches the back of his head for a moment, and then drops it.] Shall we go and have a bite at Wuck?
UNKNOWN VOICE: There you are!
HIJIKATA: ...crap.
> An unknown woman walks up towards Toshirou. She seems to have looked quite worried...
WOMAN: Why didn't you contact us? We've been trying to find you for the past half hour!
HIJIKATA: [Has an annoyed face] ...I don't need to contact you over every single thing.
WOMAN: I was just worried--
HIJIKATA: I can take care of myself, alright? Stop butting into my own business.
WOMAN: I know its hard for you to get used to this, but we're trying our best to help you with all of this--
HIJIKATA: I don't need your help.
WOMAN: ...
> ...you sense an uncomfortable atmosphere forming in the ares... CHOICES
> ...who is that?
> Should I leave...?
> ... >...who is that?
HIJIKATA: Oh, um...
WOMAN: Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't introduce myself; I'm Toshirou's mother.
HIJIKATA: ...
> You see an annoyed look crossing Toshirou's face.
> Should I leave...?
HIJIKATA: Ah... no, you don't have to leave. I'll be done with her soon.
> Toshirou tries to make a smile. (+2, Lovers flag number two)
> ...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou continues to look annoyed.
HIJIKATA: Look, I already said I can handle myself. You don't need to follow me everywhere and get into everything I'm involved in.
WOMAN: We were just worried! What with you having been involved with that recently deceased-thug... it's good that he's gone, since that means we don't need to worry about you getting more bad influence--
HIJIKATA: Don't you dare talk shit about Shinji!
WOMAN: ...well I never! This is just for your own good, you need to understand!
HIJIKATA: I know very well how to take care of myself without the help from the likes of you! Just leave me alone, damnit!
WOMAN: ...your father is going to hear about this!
> The woman leaves...
HIJIKATA: ...let's go somewhere else, I don't want to stay here.
> You decided to leave the strip mall with Toshirou.
[Scene cut]
Naganaki Shrine...
You came here with Toshirou after leaving the Iwatodai Strip Mall.
HIJIKATA: [sighs] ...
> Both of you are sitting on a bench, and Toshirou is staring down on the ground. CHOICES
> Are you okay?
> Do you need to talk about it?
> Cheer up. > Are you okay?
HIJIKATA: Huh? ...yeah, I'm okay. Just...
> Toshirou trails off and continues to look sullenly at the ground.
> Do you need to talk about it?
HIJIKATA: ...no, its okay.
> Toshirou smiles weakly. (+1)
> Cheer up.
HIJIKATA: ...hah, nothing ever gets you, huh?
> Toshirou attempts a small chuckle. (+2)
HIJIKATA: ...I know I wasn't that all fair to her back there, but everything's been hard to accept for me. Knowing that my parents are still around, being taken back... do you know how much they've been watching me? I'm glad I'm staying in the dorm now, to be honest.
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
HIJIKATA: They've been asking me to move into the house, but I've been refusing... after all, there's still Tartarus and the Dark Hour to deal with. If I move away, I won't be able to help at all. And that won't be respecting and honouring all that Shinji has done...
> Toshirou sighs.
HIJIKATA: Shinji... he's done so much for me, and I need to repay it all while I still can. Taking out Tartartus, the Shadows and the Dark Hour... that's what I need to do for that. So until that's done, I can't let myself return to a normal life just yet.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: Sorry you had to see that whole thing earlier. CHOICES
> Don't worry about it.
> Its understandable.
> Just take care of yourself. > Don't worry about it.
HIJIKATA: ...you really are a good leader.
> Toshirou smiles.
> Its understandable.
HIJIKATA: ...you're too nice at times, you know.
> Toshirou smiles quietly despite the words.
> Just take care of yourself.
HIJIKATA: ...ha, I will.
> Toshirou let out a small laugh. (+1)
HIJIKATA: ...thanks.
> Through this incident, you feel that you seem to be able to understand Toshirou better than before.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 6!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...well, since we didn't get to eat, how about we return to the dorm and cook something instead? CHOICES
> Sounds great!
> Let's make something for the rest too!
> It'll be fun! > Sounds great!
HIJIKATA: It'll be a nice change for once.
> Toshirou smiles.
> Let's make something for the rest too!
HIJIKATA: ...ha, that sounds like a good idea.
> Toshirou laughs quietly.
> It'll be fun!
HIJIKATA: ...fun, huh?
> Toshirou looks amused.
HIJIKATA: ...alright, if we're going to cook then we should head back. Its going to be pretty late soon.
> You returned to the dorm with Toshirou.
level five ← level six → level seven | top
LEVEL SEVEN Iawtodai Station, Wakatsu Restaurant...
You came here with Toshirou today to hang out after school.
HIJIKATA: A meal before hitting the manga café would be a good idea... who knows how long we'll be in there, after all. ...though, at least Iori isn't with us, or who knows how long we'll REALLY be there.
> Toshirou looks amused as he says those words.
HIJIKATA: So, how you've been? Doing well these days, I hope? CHOICES
> Just great!
> I could ask you the same back in return.
> Good enough, thanks. > Just great!
HIJIKATA: ...that so? Well, that's certainly good to hear.
> Toshirou smiles. (+1)
> I could ask you the same back in return.
HIJIKATA: ...you don't have to concern yourself with me.
> A wry look crosses Toshirou's face. (+2)
> Good enough, thanks.
HIJIKATA: ...I see.
> Toshirou nods.
HIJIKATA: A whole lot of things have happened since you came here, huh? Truthfully, if I had been in your shoes I wouldn't even know what to do... at least its nice to see that our leader is so dependable.
> Toshirou smiles.
HIJIKATA: Alright, I suppose that's enough of talking; let's eat before our food gets cold.
> Both you and Toshirou began to dig into your respective meals...
> ...as you eat, you actively try to avoid the pile of mayonnaise that is on Toshirou's food.
[Scene cut]
> Both of you have finished your food.
HIJIKATA: [With the '♪' mark] Well, that certainly hit the spot. Nothing like some mayonnaise to make everything take a whole lot better.
> ...you decide not to comment.
HIJIKATA: ...well now that we're done, I suppose we should head for the manga café now.
> Both of you leave the restaurant and head towards the manga café.
[Scene cut]
> Both of you have arrived at the manga café.
HIJIKATA: ...I guess its time to head in. After you, I suppose.
MAN'S VOICE: Oh, so there you are.
HIJIKATA: [Annoyed face] ...not again...
> The woman from last time has come again, this time with a stern-looking man.
MAN: We came to school in order to pick you up, and instead you've run off with your friend without even bothering to contact us! Do you know how worried we were?
HIJIKATA: I told you before already, I can take care of myself!
WOMAN: Don't you use that tone on us, young man!
HIJIKATA: I'll use this tone if you're pissing me off, like now!
MAN: Show some manners to your own parents!
HIJIKATA: How the hell can I respect the people who dumped me?!
MAN: .........
WOMAN: That thug must have really influenced you badly...
HIJIKATA: Stop talking about Shinji like that! He's not a thug at all!
WOMAN: He certainly looked like one.
HIJIKATA: You don't know anything about him!
WOMAN: I know that he was at least a bad influence on you, just as your father said.
HIJIKATA: You--!
> Toshirou looks like he's ready to get violent...
> What will you do? CHOICES
> Speak out
> Intervene
> Do nothing > Speak out
> You spoke out in order to try and calm Toshirou down.
HIJIKATA: .........
> Toshirou scowls even more. It seems as if he isn't going to listen to reason now...
> Intervene
> You stepped out and attempted to stop Toshirou from doing anything rash.
HIJIKATA: ...! What are you doing?!
> Toshirou calms down a little. It seems you've gotten through to him a little.
> Do nothing
> You quietly stood by and watched Toshirou.
HIJIKATA: .........
> Toshirou doesn't seem to be relenting anytime soon...
> There is a tense pause in the air...
HIJIKATA: ...I'm not going to waste my time on idiots like you.
> Toshirou seems to have relented.
HIJIKATA: Let's get away from here, Minako. I've had enough of this.
MAN: Don't you dare walk away from me like that--
> Toshirou walks away before the man even finishes...
WOMAN: He's getting more and more uncontrollable...
> Both the woman and the man leave as well.
> ...
> ...you decide to go after Toshirou.
[Scene cut]
Outside the dorm...
You found Toshirou sitting on the steps of the entrance.
HIJIKATA: ...oh, its you.
> Toshirou glances down back onto the ground and sighs. CHOICES
> Mind if I join you?
> Can I sit here? > Mind if I join you?
HIJIKATA: ...sure.
> Can I sit here?
HIJIKATA: ...okay.
> You moved and sat down beside Toshirou.
HIJIKATA: ...
> A strange silence falls upon Toshirou...
> ...it continues for the next few minutes... CHOICES
> Still thinking about what happened?
> ...you okay?
> Sorry. > Still thinking about what happened?
HIJIKATA: ...yeah.
> Toshirou sighs again.
> ...you okay?
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, I'm fine.
> Toshirou attempts a smile. (+1)
> Sorry.
HIJIKATA: What are you apologizing for? Idiot.
> Despite the words, Toshirou smiles slightly. (+2)
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: I really blew my top this time, huh...
HIJIKATA: But they keep talking crap about Shinji, thinking he's one of those thugs... he's nothing like that at all. Why can't they just understand that?
HIJIKATA: ...then again, I guess it isn't their fault. Shinji's always been like that, even back when we were younger...
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: To be honest... I've never liked fighting a whole lot. People get hurt from it so easily, and they can even die if things go bad. That's why I never was keen in joining SEES... because fighting isn't my style. Even against the Shadows... humans are part of them, after all.
HIJIKATA: But then Shinji joined... so I joined as well, back then. It was weird, being the youngest back then... but I managed somehow, I suppose. And then that incident happened...
HIJIKATA: Personas were all still relatively new for us back then, so we had no real means to control it... Shinji lost control of his, and because of that Ken's mother was killed. After that incident, Shinji quit SEES and stopped using his Persona. I did the same as well.
HIJIKATA: And now after all this time... to think that things ended up this way...
> Toshirou looks back down onto the ground as he sighs.
HIJIKATA: I know I shouldn't be like this... but I just can't stand them when they talk about Shinji like that. It's like an insult to his memory... CHOICES
> It's understandable.
> Shinjiro-senpai was important to you.
> I'm sure they'll understand in time. > It's understandable.
HIJIKATA: ...I guess you know the feeling, huh?
> Toshirou smiles wryly. (+2)
> Shinjiro-senpai was important to you.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, he was.
> Toshirou closes his eyes. (+1)
> I'm sure they'll understand in time.
HIJIKATA: ...you think so? That's pretty optimistic.
> Toshirou smiles slightly. (+1)
HIJIKATA: ...you're really good at this listening thing, aren't you? No wonder you're the leader.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: Thanks for listening again.
> You feel Toshirou's feelings through this incident, along with the thanks he gives you. You feel as if you can understand him a little better now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 7!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: I guess since we're at the dorm, might as well head in. It's getting late anyway.
HIJIKATA: ...let's do our best for Tartarus this evening, if we're going tonight. I'll be trusting you as always, leader.
> You head back into the dorm with Toshirou.
level six ← level seven → level eight | top
LEVEL EIGHT Gekkoukan High School, at the school gates...
You and Toshirou decided to meet here before figuring out where else to go.
> ...
> ...
> ...
> You have already waited for a while, but it seems that he's still not here.
> What will you do? CHOICES
> Head back into school to look for him
> Stay at the gates and continue waiting > Head back into school to look for him
> You wonder if you should head back into school to look for Toshirou...
> There is a possibility that he might still come out at any time...
> ...you decide to wait for a while longer instead.
> Stay at the gates and continue waiting
[No response]
> ......
> ......
> ......
> Toshirou still hasn't come yet...
> What will you do? CHOICES
> Continue to wait at the gates
> Go back to class to try and find him > Continue to wait at the gates
[No response]
> Go back to class to try and find him
> Perhaps going back to class would be a good idea... but homehoom has already ended for a while...
> It's more likely that he isn't in class at all, and you have no idea where else to look...
> ...you decide to wait for a bit more.
> .........
> .........
> .........
> Toshirou still hasn't turned up...
> What will you do? CHOICES
> Contiune to wait
> Leave
> Go back to school and search for him > Contiune to wait
[No response]
> Leave
[No response]
> Go back to school and search for him
[No response]
[Phone suddenly rings after choice selection, and MC picks it up.]
HIJIKATA: ...hey, you there?
HIJIKATA: Sorry about the suddenness of this... but I don't think I can meet up with you today. CHOICES
> Did something happen?
> Its okay. > Did something happen?
HIJIKATA: ...uh, well...
> Toshirou sounds distinctly uncomfortable.
> Its okay.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks.
> Toshirou sounds relieved. (+1)
HIJIKATA: ...you see, earlier on my old man had a health scare. Apparently a minor heart attack, or something. I'm actually at the hospital now.
HIJIKATA: ...apparently its not the first time too, and there's a possibility that his health is already pretty bad, since he's pretty old and all...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou falls silent on the other end... CHOICES
> How are you doing there?
> Is he better now? > How are you doing there?
HIJIKATA: ...I'm fine. I was just really surprised when I got the call about this, but now that the scare's over I'm better now.
> You can hear Toshirou's relief through his words.
> Is he better now?
HIJIKATA: ...ah, yeah. He is. Though he'll need to stay in the hospital for the day to observe him and make sure that nothing else crops up... but he's fine for the most part, at least.
> Toshirou sounds a bit happier over the line.
HIJIKATA: *sighs*
HIJIKATA: I didn't even know that his health was this bad... I should have known better...
HIJIKATA: And all this time I've been a jerk to them due to Shinji...
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: ...I guess all they wanted to do was to see me before anything happened...
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: ...at least he's still alright... CHOICES
> Don't worry so much.
> I'm sure he'll be okay. > Don't worry so much.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, I guess that won't really help.
> Toshirou seems to be laughing quietly. (+1)
> I'm sure he'll be okay.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, me too.
> Toshirou sounds a bit more relieved after hearing those words. (+1)
HIJIKATA: ...thanks for picking up the call. I think talking to you helped, just a little.
> Though something serious has happened to Toshirou's father, you can now feel the genuine concern he has for his parents.
> You feel as if you understand Toshirou a little better now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 8!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...I should probably hang up now. I'll talk to you back at the dorm later.
HIJIKATA: Sorry again for holding you up like this. CHOICES
> No problem.
> Its okay.
> Take care of yourself first. > No problem.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks again.
> Its okay.
HIJIKATA: I'll make it up next time.
> Take care of yourself first.
HIJIKATA: ...ah, sure.
> Toshirou hangs up the phone.
> It's getting dark out, so you decided to return to the dorm.
level seven ← level eight → level nine | top
LEVEL NINE Naganaki Shrine...
Toshirou brought you here after you agreed to go out with him.
HIJIKATA: Sorry for dragging you all the way out here... but I figure that this would be the best place to talk and stuff.
> Toshirou glances down onto the ground after saying that.
HIJIKATA: My old man... he's fine now, if you're wondering. Just got discharged the other day. The doc told him to remain at home to rest, but he's still working even in bed... CHOICES
> You should tell him to rest.
> Why is he doing that? > You should tell him to rest.
HIJIKATA: I did, but...
> Toshirou sighs loudly.
> Why is he doing that?
HIJIKATA: Well...
> Toshirou scratches the back of his head awkwardly.
HIJIKATA: You see, I sort of found out... the reason why my old man even collapsed in the first place was because he had been overworking... trying to earn more money so that he could support me. They both aren't very rich, y'see...
HIJIKATA: ...part of the reason why they gave me up in the first place was coz' they couldn't afford it back then. A kid put too much strain on their budget, and they didn't have much.
HIJIKATA: Apparently they've been regretting that ever since they did it, and they want to make it up to me in any way they can now that they've found me... CHOICES
> Isn't that a good thing?
> You should make the most out of it.
> Is there something wrong? > Isn't that a good thing?
HIJIKATA: ...I guess it is, but...
> Toshirou seems hesitant for some reason. (+1)
> You should make the most out of it.
HIJIKATA: ...you think so?
> Toshirou seems surprised by your answer. (+1)
> Is there something wrong?
HIJIKATA: Hah, it seems that nothing ever escapes you.
> Toshirou smiles wryly for a moment, before sighing. (+2)
HIJIKATA: You see... I'm not quite sure what to do. Now that I know their intentions, its hard to just discard them especially since they're all about me. But then a part of me doesn't really care... because it doesn't matter since Shinjiro isn't here...
> Toshirou keeps his gaze down to the ground again.
HIJIKATA: Shinjiro... I don't want to let him go, not when he's so important to me. Right from young he's always been with me, and now... I'm just not sure if I can let the memories of him go just like that. I know I'll have to if I want to properly accept my folks, but yet...
HIJIKATA: [sighs] ...I don't know what I should do. CHOICES
> Do what you think is right.
> Give yourself sometime to think about it.
> I know you'll make the right decision eventually. > Do what you think is right.
HIJIKATA: What I think is right, huh...
> Toshirou makes a wistful face at that.
> Give yourself sometime to think about it.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, I guess that works.
> Toshirou nods.
> I know you'll make the right decision eventually.
HIJIKATA: Hah, I didn't know you had that much confidence in me.
> Toshirou laughs softly. (+1, Lovers flag number three)
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: ...and here you just stayed and listened to me rambling on again like always. I don't know if anybody else can do what you do... no wonder you're the leader.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: Thanks again. I owe you.
> You can feel Toshirou's sincere gratitude in his words. You feel as if the both of you are closer now...
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 9!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...well, there's that. We should grab a bite before heading back to the dorm. How does ice-cream sound?
> You went to the convenience store with Toshirou to get some ice-cream before returning to the dorm with him.
level eight ← level nine → level ten | top
LEVEL TEN Gekkoukan High School, Rooftop...
After agreeing to meet with Toshirou, he brought you up here.
> The view from the roof is as wonderful as always...
HIJIKATA: [laughs] You like the view as well, don't you? CHOICES
> I do!
> Loads of other people do as well.
> Do you? > I do!
HIJIKATA: That so? ...that's good to know.
> Toshirou looks amused.
> Loads of other people do as well.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, this place does give a great view.
> Toshirou shrugs.
> Do you?
HIJIKATA: ...well...
> Toshirou seems to be embarrassed.
HIJIKATA: ...I used to come up here a lot, back when Shinji was here. He'd skip out on class a lot and stuff... I would to, sometimes, just so that I could hang out with him.
HIJIKATA: [laughs] He was never happy about that. Everytime when I did that, he'd hit me on the head and say something like 'you should be studying'. He would have this really annoyed face as well when he did it.
HIJIKATA: ...he was rough from the start, but he's always protected me all this time.
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou looks downwards.
HIJIKATA: ...I called you up here because I wanted to tell you that I made a decision. CHOICES
> Decision?
> So what did you decide? > Decision?
HIJIKATA: The one with my folks. You forgot about it already? ...well, its alright.
> Toshirou smiles.
> So what did you decide?
[No response]
HIJIKATA: After thinking about it, and everything... I've decided to live with my folks. Well, not immediately of course; I'll only move in during spring break, after graduation.
HIJIKATA: I think... I mean, I guess that I need to move on with my life. Shinjiro's important, but I can't hang onto him for the rest of my life... he wouldn't be pleased if I did anyway. He'd most likely smack me for it like always. And then say something along the lines of 'grow up already, seesh, I can't take care of you forever'.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: I know... I know that he's watching over me even now, making sure that I do what is right. Perhaps joining SEES might not be the best decision... but now that I have, I'll see through it until the end still no matter what. Not just because for Shinji like before... but for myself as well. I don't want anybody else to suffer because of Shadows and the Dark Hour.
HIJIKATA: Once the Dark Hour is gone... then tragedies like the one with Shinjiro won't ever happen again. And I think... that'll be a good thing for everyone... and for all of us. CHOICES
> That's the spirit!
> I'm glad you made your decision.
> I'll be rooting for you all the way. > That's the spirit!
HIJIKATA: [laughs] You never seem to be down at all, don't you?
> Toshirou is amused.
> I'm glad you made your decision.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, and I've got you to thank for that.
> Toshirou nods.
> I'll be rooting for you all the way.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks.
> Toshirou smiles.
HIJIKATA: ...oh, right. Here, have this.
> Toshirou fishes out something from his pocket.
HIJIKATA: Hold out your hand.
> You brought out your hand.
> Toshirou pressed something into your palm.
HIJIKATA: I hope you like it.
> Toshirou pulls his hand back, and you see what it is that he has given you...
> Obtained Handmade Keychain.
HIJIKATA: ...I made it myself. Not too good with stuff like these, to be honest... but I guess something handmade would be more meaningful that something I would buy. CHOICES
> I'll be sure to treasure it.
> That's really nice of you.
> You didn't have to. > I'll be sure to treasure it.
HIJIKATA: Ah... thanks, I guess.
> Toshirou looks embarrassed.
> That's really nice of you.
HIJIKATA: ...I just wanted to do something meaningful, that's all.
> Toshirou seems to be rather embarrassed.
> You didn't have to.
HIJIKATA: I did it anyway, so you're going to have to keep it.
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
HIJIKATA: If it wasn't for you talking to me all this time, listening to me and helping me every step of the way... I don't think I'd have been able to reach where I am now.
HIJIKATA: So... thanks. I appreciate it a lot. You were a great help.
> With his words and actions, you can sense Toshirou's complete and utter sincerity towards you.
> After everything that you two have been through, you think you can understand his intentions and well-meaning towards you and the rest of SEES.
> You can feel the amount of trust and gratitude that Toshirou has for you now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou are I... and I am thou... the bond thou hast nurtured hath finally matured. The innermost power of the Hanged Man Arcana hath been set free. We bestow upon thee the ability to create Attis, the ultimate form of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached its maximum level!
> You have mastered the Hijikata Toshirou Social Link!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has reached its maximum!
> You have forged a bond that cannot be broken!
> The Hanged Man Social Link is at its maximum level; you can now create Attis, the god of rebirth!
HIJIKATA: So now that all of that is over, how about we celebrate with some ramen at Hagakure? It'll be my treat this time round. CHOICES
> You're on!
> It had better be the special! > You're on!
HIJIKATA: Ha! You'd better make sure to eat up everything, or there'll be no next time.
> Toshirou grins.
> It had better be the special!
HIJIKATA: Of course it'll be, who do you think you're talking to?
> Toshirou laughs.
HIJIKATA: Alright alright, let's head over to Hagakure then. If we're going to Tartarus again tonight, we'd better make sure to have all our energy, yeah?
> You spent an enjoyable afternoon with Toshirou.
level nine ← level ten → lovers | top
EXTRA SCENE (LOVERS) The dorm...
You brought Toshirou here after much insistence.
HIJIKATA: ...so, what did you bring me here for? I mean, we don't really have much else to talk about now. Don't you have the other guys to hang around with? CHOICES
> I want to hang out with you more.
> I want to tell you something. > I want to hang out with you more.
HIJIKATA: ...well, you could have just said that instead of dragging me out here. I guess we could go to Hagakure again if you want... how about that?
> You went out with Toshirou and spent the rest of the day with him. [Skip to Evening]
> I want to tell you something.
[Scene continues]
HIJIKATA: Tell me something? Tell me what? CHOICES
> I love you.
> Will you go to my room? > I love you.
HIJIKATA: Wha-what? Don't just say something like that out of the blue! [Scene continues]
> Will you go to my room?
HIJIKATA: Wha... of course not! Why would I even do that?! ...are you trying to be funny, coz' I'm not at all. If you're done, then I'm leaving.
> Toshirou brushes you aside and leaves the dorm. [Skip to Evening]
HIJIKATA: Do you even know what you're saying here? Saying stuff like 'love' out of nowhere... CHOICES
> But I do love you.
> I'm being serious here! > But I do love you!
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou stares quietly at you. [Scene continues]
> I'm being serious here!
HIJIKATA: I don't really see any meaning in this... I'm just going to leave now.
> Toshirou hurriedly exits the dorm... [Skip to Evening]
HIJIKATA: You... I'm hardly the best kind of guy, you know. Do you even understand what you're going to get yourself in? Once you're in... you ain't gonna come out of it like before. CHOICES
> Don't you trust me?
> I've made my decision. > Don't you trust me?
HIJIKATA: Of course I do, but this is... no, this isn't going to be right. I can't do this... I'm sorry.
> Toshirou walks past you quickly and heads out of the dorm. [Skip to Evening]
> I've made my decision.
HIJIKATA: ...look like you're really set, huh.
> Toshirou sighs. [Scene continues]
HIJIKATA: But even if you are... I'm really not a guy you should get attached to. I mean... there's really nothing good about me at all. CHOICES
> I know you're good inside.
> Even so, I still love you. > I know you're good inside.
HIJIKATA: ...don't say something like that with so much confidence.
> Toshirou looks down, embarrassed. [Scene continues]
> Even so, I still love you.
HIJIKATA: No, I won't accept that. You're just... better off with other people. Stop thinking about me... I can't do this.
> Toshirou looks away and goes out before you can say anything else. [Skip to Evening]
> Toshirou stays silent for a long while...
HIJIKATA: ... are you sure you won't regret this? CHOICES
> Positive.
> Definitely. > Positive.
HIJIKATA: ...
> Definitely.
HIJIKATA: Idiot...
[Scene cut]
Toshirou's room...
Toshirou brought you up here after you persuaded him to do so.
Apart from the usual things, there doesn't seem to be a lot in the room...
HIJIKATA: ...so, you happy? Saying all of those weird things out of the blue and making me bring you up here... luckily there isn't anybody else in the dorm now.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: At least that means I can do this.
> ...
> Toshirou suddenly reaches out for you and embraces you close against him.
HIJIKATA: Why did you even have to say all of those things...? Damnit, I already told myself I would never, and still now... like this... its all your fault, you know. For saying something like that so suddenly...
> ...Toshirou lets you go.
HIJIKATA: You still staying here? I'm not going to blame you if you want to leave, you know. I mean... you should, really. CHOICES
> I'm staying no matter what.
> Leave the room. > I'm staying no matter what.
HIJIKATA: ... [Scene continues]
> Leave the room.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, you'd better.
> You left Toshirou's room. [Skip to Evening]
HIJIKATA: Why do you have to be so troublesome...?
> Despite the words, there is a small smile on Toshirou's face.
HIJIKATA: ...if you're going to stay here, then I'd better tell you this...
HIJIKATA: You can't turn back now, once I start. There ain't any going back from here. I'm not going to stop.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: I can't stop, anyway.
> ...
> You spent a long time with Toshirou.
level ten ← lovers → epilogue | top
THE HANGED MAN SOCIAL LINK
[ one | two | three | four | five | six | seven | eight | nine | ten | lovers | epilogue ]
LEVEL ONE
Just one notice before I start - in gameplay terms, Hijikata's Social Link can only be done if Shinjiro's Social Link was at least initiated.
Iwatodai Station, Hakagure...
Toshirou brought you out here after convincing him to take you with him to dinner.
HIJIKATA: ...well, I don't really know anywhere else to go, so here we are. CHOICES
> Senpai brought me here before...
> You like this place as well?
> Do you like ramen?
> Senpai brought me here before...
HIJIKATA: ...oh, did he?
> Toshirou lowers his head and falls silent for a while.
> You like this place as well?
HIJIKATA: I guess that's one way of putting it...
> A small smile can be seen on Toshirou's face. (+2)
> Do you like ramen?
HIJIKATA: ...not exactly.
> The faintest hint of a smile is seen on Toshirou's face. (+1)
HIJIKATA: Shinji brought me here all the time whenever I went to see him... he kept saying about how I shouldn't hang around that area behind Port Island Station.
> Toshirou pauses for a moment, and then smiles nostalgically.
HIJIKATA: He's always been like that as long as I can remember - even back when we were kids. Anytime I did something stupid, he'd just whip me back onto the straight and narrow. ...yeah, he's one heck of a brother. I owe him a lot, to be honest. CHOICES
> You two must be very close.
> ...brother?
> How long have you two been together?
> You two must be very close.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, we are.
> Toshirou smiles. (+1)
> ...brother?
HIJIKATA: Not blood-related. We've just been through a lot together...
> A pained look crosses Toshirou's face.
> How long have you two been together?
HIJIKATA: ...a long time. Even before we met Aki.
> Toshirou smiles slightly.
HIJIKATA: I've known Shinji for as long as I could remember. Even if we aren't blood-related, I consider him as my brother... that's why I'll make sure to do my best and fight for his sake as well.
> Toshirou looks towards you with a smile.
HIJIKATA: Having said that, I hope that I can be useful to the group, leader. CHOICES
> I'm sure you will.
> Just don't slack.
> I'm sure you will.
HIJIKATA: Hah, I hope so too.
> Toshirou chuckles softly.
> Just don't slack.
HIJIKATA: I know better than to do that, of course.
> A mildly amused look crosses Toshirou's face.
HIJIKATA: Let's just work for the best eh, leader?
> Behind Toshirou's words and actions you can sense his determination to help SEES in place of Shinjiro who is now lost... you feel that you understand him a little better now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> You have established a new Social Link!
> Toshirou finishes up the last of his ramen before looking at you.
HIJIKATA: ...well, hurry up and finish, it'll be bad if we return to the dorm late.
> You finished up your ramen and then returned to the dorm with Toshirou.
level one → level two | top
LEVEL TWO Iwatodai Station, Hakagure...
Toshirou brought you here once again for dinner.
HIJIKATA: Sorry that we're eating here again, but I need to make up for last time. CHOICES
> ...make up?
> Last time? >...make up?
HIJIKATA: Yeah, making up for what I missed.
> Toshirou has a rather serious expression on his face...
> Last time?
HIJIKATA: The last time we came here to eat, of course.
HIJIKATA: I forgot to do something when we ate here last time... so today I'm going to make up for it.
> Toshirou pulls out a large bottle from his pocket. The contents seem to look a bit like mayonnaise.
> ...you have a bad feeling about this.
HIJIKATA: Time to give this ramen some actual taste.
> ...Toshirou is now dumping the mayonnaise right into the ramen... CHOICES
> What are you...?
> What is that...?
> ...... > What are you...?
HIJIKATA: What I just said; I'm giving the ramen some taste.
> What is that...?
HIJIKATA: Hm? Mayonnaise, of course. What else could it be?
> ......
(No response)
> You watch as Toshirou dumps an inhuman amount of mayonnaise onto his ramen...
> ...for some reason, you don't feel like eating anymore.
HIJIKATA: There we go.
> You can only stare at the grotesque pile of mayonnaise that is on the bowl... CHOICES
> Can you even...
> ...... > Can you even...
HIJIKATA: Huh?
> ......
(No response)
HIJIKATA: Mayonnaise is the best thing ever created, if I have to say anything about it. There's really nothing in the world that can beat its great texture and flavour. Shinji's home-made mayonnaise is the best - he'd always make mayonnaise for me whenever I asked...
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
HIJIKATA: He'd always smack me in the head though when I did cos' he said I always ate so much. I could finish a whole bottle if I wanted to. Shinji always said I should stop because all that cholesterol would give me a heart attack... not that he could see now if I would have one or not.
> A sad look is on Toshirou's face and a sigh comes out from him.
HIJIKATA: He's done so much for me... and yet I've never done anything back in return at all... CHOICES
> But you're here now, aren't you?
> I don't think its like that. > But you're here now, aren't you?
HIJIKATA: ...well, yeah, but...
> Toshirou looks pained.
> I don't think its like that.
HIJIKATA: ...haha, how would you know? It's not like you even know what happened...
> Toshirou laughs quietly. (+1)
HIJIKATA: I owe Shinji a lot, so now that he's not here... I'll have to do my best in order to make up for him and repay for everything he did for me.
> Toshirou smiles lightly.
HIJIKATA: It's the least I should do.
> You can feel Toshirou's quiet determination to fight his battles against the Shadows for the sake of Shinjiro... you feel that you understand him a little better now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 2!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...well, I guess I should stop talking. The ramen's getting cold. Time to tuck in.
> You managed to eat your ramen despite difficulties and then returned to the dorm with Toshirou.
level one ← level two → level three | top
LEVEL THREE Iwatodai Station, Wild-Duck Burger...
You brought Toshirou here for dinner today.
HIJIKATA: Fast food, huh...? Can't say I eat it all that often. Well, a little won't hurt me much, I guess.
> Toshirou is looking at his burger rather intently...
HIJIKATA: Still, they could do with more mayonnaise around...
> Toshirou begins to eat his burger.
> ...you quickly eat your own meal as well.
[Cut-in goes here]
> Both of you have finished your respective meals.
HIJIKATA: Hah... I guess that meal wasn't that all bad. CHOICES
> You don't eat here often?
> Not a fan of fast food? > You don't eat here often?
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, not too often.
> Toshirou smiles lightly. (+1)
> Not a fan of fast food?
HIJIKATA: Well, not exactly...
> A somewhat sheepish look crosses Toshirou's face. (+1)
HIJIKATA: Shinji usually cooks for me... so I don't really come to eat at these sort of places. Besides, its unhealthy and I need to keep myself in shape for the team.
> Toshirou laughs quietly.
HIJIKATA: I know I seem intimidating to them because of how I always hang around Shinji... I can't really blame them for it - that area behind Port Island Station can get quite dangerous if you're not careful. I was okay only because Shinji was alongside me... nobody really dares to mess with him there, haha...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou looks down and heaves a sigh.
HIJIKATA: Sorry... you must be annoyed about how much I talk about Shinji... CHOICES
> It's alright, I don't mind.
> It's natural for you to talk about him.
> ...I know the feeling. > It's alright, I don't mind.
HIJIKATA: ...hah, you're nicer than I give you credit for.
> Toshirou smiles. (+2)
> It's natural for you to talk about him.
HIJIKATA: Natural, huh...
> A wry smile appears on Toshirou's face.
> ...I know the feeling.
HIJIKATA: ...oh yeah, you lost your parents. ...Sorry.
> Toshirou looks apologetic. (+1)
HIJIKATA: Shinji and I... we grew up in an orphanage together. Neither of us really know who our parents are, to be honest. Our names were given by the caretakers in there too... that's why our first names sound alike. Kind of dumb, huh? But in that way... that's how we're brothers. We've went through thick and thin together, especially when Aki came around as well...
> Toshirou has a glum expression on his face...
HIJIKATA: It's good that you still had relatives to take care of you at least... I don't even know who I am, or where I'm from. Though it doesn't really matter to me as much these days... if they abandoned me, that meant that they didn't want me anymore in the first place. So I don't really care.
HIJIKATA: Thinking about it... its kinda weird, huh? Everyone in SEES seem to have problems with their parents, or lack them at all. I suppose the only exception would be Koromaru and Aigis, since he's a dog and she's a robot... maybe only trouble people like us can get a Persona, since we go through so many hardships...
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
HIJIKATA: I guess that's just my thoughts though. Kinda negative, huh? CHOICES
> You should be more positive.
> Senpai wouldn't want you to be like this. > You should be more positive.
HIJIKATA: ...heh, I know.
> Toshirou smiles lightly. (Lovers flag number one)
> Senpai wouldn't want you to be like this.
HIJIKATA: He'd just headsmack me the moment he saw me acting like this. And maybe say something like 'Stop being an idiot'.
> Toshirou laughs quietly.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks, I feel better now talking to you like this. Its been a while since I could...
> You can feel Toshirou's gratitude for being his listening ear. As he opens up to you, you feel like you understand him a bit better.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 3!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...we should get back to the dorm before it gets too late.
> You left the place with Toshirou and headed back to the dorm.
level two ← level three → level four | top
LEVEL FOUR Port Island Station, Screen Shot Cinema...
You came here with Toshirou after deciding to go to the movies with him.
HIJIKATA: Can't say I'm really a fan of movies... but let's go in and see what's on, shall we?
> You went into the cinema with Toshirou.
[Cut-in goes here!]
> The action-packed Phoenix Ranger Featherman R movie shows the might and determination that the heroes possessed as they overcome all odds in order to fight for what they believed in so much... you can feel the immense amount of dedication and courage that the team had throughout the whole movie.
> Your Courage has increased!
HIJIKATA: ...that was a good movie.
> ...you can see Toshirou attempting to stifle the tears that are attempting to fall from the corners of his eyes... CHOICES
> ...are you okay?
> You really liked that movie, didn't you? > ...are you okay?
HIJIKATA: Huh? Oh... yes, I'm fine. Something just got caught in my eye...
> Toshirou glances away and wipes off his tears.
> You really liked that movie, didn't you?
HIJIKATA: W-What? Don't be silly, this series is just for kids. I just had something in my eye, that's all.
> Toshirou hastily looks away and wipes away his tears. (+2)
HIJIKATA: ...anyway, the movie's over. What do you say we go and get some food before heading back to the dorm?
TEENAGER'S VOICE: --hey, Hijikata!
HIJIKATA: ...damnit, why now...
> A rather threatening-looking bunch of teenagers are approaching both you and Toshirou...
GANG LEADER: It's been a while since you last dropped by here, Hijikata.
HIJIKATA: I don't have time for your bullshit. Just what do you want?
GANG LEADER: We need to settle a few scores with you, since we can't do it with that brother of yours--hrm?
> The gang leader spots you.
GANG LEADER: Well well... look who do we have here? I remember you quite well, little missy... Shinjiro stepped up to protect you and your little Gekko High classmates during that night!
HIJIKATA: ...
GANG LEADER: So, what's up now? Trying to get close to Hijikata so you can get him to protect you this time?
HIJIKATA: Enough! She's just a friend of mine, nothing more. Besides, she doesn't need to be 'close' to me just so I will protect her. As long as its anybody who's suffering from the likes of you, I will protect them no matter what.
GANG LEADER: Hah! Playin' hero now, eh? Trying to make up for all the shit that your brother did? He deserved it, if I have anything to say about--
HIJIKATA: Don't you dare talk shit about Shinji!
> Toshirou rushes forth and deals a painful punch onto the gang leader's face.
HIJIKATA: People like you will never understand the things he had to go through! CHOICES
> Calm down!
> You're going to attract attention!
> Stop it! >Calm down!
HIJIKATA: You're asking me to calm down after hearing something like that about Shinji?!
> Toshirou is still fuming.
You're going to attract attention!
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou stills.
Stop it!
HIJIKATA: After hearing this asshole speak shit about Shinji?! Not a chance!
> Toshirou doesn't seem to listen...
OFFICER'S VOICE: What's up with that commotion down there?!
GANG LEADER: Crap, its the cops... let's get out of here before they arrest us!
> The gang of teenagers fled the scene.
OFFICER KUROSAWA: ...well, its good to see that the both of you are alright. Especially you, Hijikata...
HIJIKATA: ...I'm fine, don't worry so much about me.
OFFICER KUROSAWA: Make sure to take care of yourself. I know Shinjiro's thing had a profound effect on you and all...
HIJIKATA: I can handle myself, alright?
OFFICER KUROSAWA: ...
OTHER OFFICER: Excuse me, but... when you say Hijikata, do you mean Hijikata Toshirou?
HIJIKATA: ...that would be me, yes.
OTHER OFFICER: Would you mind coming to the police station with me? I need to talk to you about something...
OFFICER KUROSAWA: Did he do something wrong?
OTHER OFFICER: No, its nothing like that. Its just concerning something that's been recently assigned to us...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou turns to look at you.
HIJIKATA: You get back to the dorm. I'll catch up once this business is done.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: Thanks for earlier.
> You feel the weight of Toshirou's gratitude for helping him out earlier just now. Through this whole event, you think you can understand him a little better than before.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 4!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: Don't worry about me; I'll be fine. [Turns towards the officers.] Let's go.
> Toshirou leaves for the police station with the two officers.
> ...you decide to return to the dorm.
level three ← level four → level five | top
LEVEL FIVE Paulownia Mall, Chagall Cafe...
Toshirou brought you here from school.
HIJIKATA: I guess this is a weird location to have a talk... hope you don't mind. CHOICES
> What's so strange about this place?
> I think its perfectly fine.
> Don't worry about it. > What's so strange about this place?
HIJIKATA: W-Well, it's just... I don't really think this place is very suitable, that's all...
> Toshirou seems to feel rather embarrassed. (+1)
> I think its perfectly fine.
HIJIKATA: Oh... well, if you say so.
> Toshirou glances away. (+1)
> Don't worry about it.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks.
> Toshirou nods. (+2)
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou keeps quiet and looks at his own cup of coffee... CHOICES
> Penny for your thoughts?
> Is there something wrong? > Penny for your thoughts?
HIJIKATA: ...you never miss a thing, do you.
> Toshirou smiles weakly.
> Is there something wrong?
HIJIKATA: ...no, not really.
> Toshirou sighs.
HIJIKATA: ...remember what happened the other day? ...the one with the gang and all that?
HIJIKATA: The officer who was asking for me the other day, well...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou hesitates... CHOICES
> What happened?
> Don't say anything. > What happened?
HIJIKATA: ...it's kind of complicated.
> Don't say anything.
[No response]
HIJIKATA: ... *sigh*
> Toshirou lets out a long sigh.
HIJIKATA: So the officer who wanted to speak to me... turns out he's been trying to find me for a while already. He said it was some favour or assignment or something like that, that part isn't important.
HIJIKATA: ...what's more important is the fact that he's been asked to find me by my birth parents.
[An '!' appears above the MC's head.]
HIJIKATA: Funny, huh? To think that my real parents would find me at a time like this... to be honest, I don't really know what to do. I mean, I do want to know them and all, but what with everything that's happened...
HIJIKATA: ...I'm not quite sure how to face them.
> Toshirou hangs his head low.
HIJIKATA: The officer said they'll be coming to see me pretty soon... I'll have to see them then. Who knows what will happen... CHOICES
> Stay positive!
> I'm sure it'll work out. > Stay positive!
HIJIKATA: ...ha, easy for you to say.
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
> I'm sure it'll work out.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, I hope so too.
> Toshirou nods. (+1)
HIJIKATA: I'll just have to see then when the day comes.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: I mostly just brought you out here so you can hear about this, since you saw everything and all. But you still helped me in the end... thanks for that, and for listening as well.
> After hearing his worries and concerns, Toshirou thanks you for helping him. Listening to his words, you feel that you can understand him a little better.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 5!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...alright, let's go elsewhere to eat something decent before going back to the dorm.
> You went to eat dinner with Toshirou elsewhere before returning to the dorm with him.
level four ← level five → level six | top
LEVEL SIX Iwatodai Station, Iwatodai Strip Mall...
You decided to come out here with Toshirou.
HIJIKATA: I'm not really the kind to go shopping, but then again its not like there's much to do for me today...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou suddenly falls silent... CHOICES
> What's wrong?
> Is something up? > What's wrong?
HIJIKATA: Huh? Oh... nothing really.
>Is something up?
HIJIKATA: ...oh. No, no its nothing.
> Despite the words however, it seems that there is still something on Toshirou's mind...
HIJIKATA: ...sorry, my mind wandered off for a bit there. [Scratches the back of his head for a moment, and then drops it.] Shall we go and have a bite at Wuck?
UNKNOWN VOICE: There you are!
HIJIKATA: ...crap.
> An unknown woman walks up towards Toshirou. She seems to have looked quite worried...
WOMAN: Why didn't you contact us? We've been trying to find you for the past half hour!
HIJIKATA: [Has an annoyed face] ...I don't need to contact you over every single thing.
WOMAN: I was just worried--
HIJIKATA: I can take care of myself, alright? Stop butting into my own business.
WOMAN: I know its hard for you to get used to this, but we're trying our best to help you with all of this--
HIJIKATA: I don't need your help.
WOMAN: ...
> ...you sense an uncomfortable atmosphere forming in the ares... CHOICES
> ...who is that?
> Should I leave...?
> ... >...who is that?
HIJIKATA: Oh, um...
WOMAN: Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't introduce myself; I'm Toshirou's mother.
HIJIKATA: ...
> You see an annoyed look crossing Toshirou's face.
> Should I leave...?
HIJIKATA: Ah... no, you don't have to leave. I'll be done with her soon.
> Toshirou tries to make a smile. (+2, Lovers flag number two)
> ...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou continues to look annoyed.
HIJIKATA: Look, I already said I can handle myself. You don't need to follow me everywhere and get into everything I'm involved in.
WOMAN: We were just worried! What with you having been involved with that recently deceased-thug... it's good that he's gone, since that means we don't need to worry about you getting more bad influence--
HIJIKATA: Don't you dare talk shit about Shinji!
WOMAN: ...well I never! This is just for your own good, you need to understand!
HIJIKATA: I know very well how to take care of myself without the help from the likes of you! Just leave me alone, damnit!
WOMAN: ...your father is going to hear about this!
> The woman leaves...
HIJIKATA: ...let's go somewhere else, I don't want to stay here.
> You decided to leave the strip mall with Toshirou.
[Scene cut]
Naganaki Shrine...
You came here with Toshirou after leaving the Iwatodai Strip Mall.
HIJIKATA: [sighs] ...
> Both of you are sitting on a bench, and Toshirou is staring down on the ground. CHOICES
> Are you okay?
> Do you need to talk about it?
> Cheer up. > Are you okay?
HIJIKATA: Huh? ...yeah, I'm okay. Just...
> Toshirou trails off and continues to look sullenly at the ground.
> Do you need to talk about it?
HIJIKATA: ...no, its okay.
> Toshirou smiles weakly. (+1)
> Cheer up.
HIJIKATA: ...hah, nothing ever gets you, huh?
> Toshirou attempts a small chuckle. (+2)
HIJIKATA: ...I know I wasn't that all fair to her back there, but everything's been hard to accept for me. Knowing that my parents are still around, being taken back... do you know how much they've been watching me? I'm glad I'm staying in the dorm now, to be honest.
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
HIJIKATA: They've been asking me to move into the house, but I've been refusing... after all, there's still Tartarus and the Dark Hour to deal with. If I move away, I won't be able to help at all. And that won't be respecting and honouring all that Shinji has done...
> Toshirou sighs.
HIJIKATA: Shinji... he's done so much for me, and I need to repay it all while I still can. Taking out Tartartus, the Shadows and the Dark Hour... that's what I need to do for that. So until that's done, I can't let myself return to a normal life just yet.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: Sorry you had to see that whole thing earlier. CHOICES
> Don't worry about it.
> Its understandable.
> Just take care of yourself. > Don't worry about it.
HIJIKATA: ...you really are a good leader.
> Toshirou smiles.
> Its understandable.
HIJIKATA: ...you're too nice at times, you know.
> Toshirou smiles quietly despite the words.
> Just take care of yourself.
HIJIKATA: ...ha, I will.
> Toshirou let out a small laugh. (+1)
HIJIKATA: ...thanks.
> Through this incident, you feel that you seem to be able to understand Toshirou better than before.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 6!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...well, since we didn't get to eat, how about we return to the dorm and cook something instead? CHOICES
> Sounds great!
> Let's make something for the rest too!
> It'll be fun! > Sounds great!
HIJIKATA: It'll be a nice change for once.
> Toshirou smiles.
> Let's make something for the rest too!
HIJIKATA: ...ha, that sounds like a good idea.
> Toshirou laughs quietly.
> It'll be fun!
HIJIKATA: ...fun, huh?
> Toshirou looks amused.
HIJIKATA: ...alright, if we're going to cook then we should head back. Its going to be pretty late soon.
> You returned to the dorm with Toshirou.
level five ← level six → level seven | top
LEVEL SEVEN Iawtodai Station, Wakatsu Restaurant...
You came here with Toshirou today to hang out after school.
HIJIKATA: A meal before hitting the manga café would be a good idea... who knows how long we'll be in there, after all. ...though, at least Iori isn't with us, or who knows how long we'll REALLY be there.
> Toshirou looks amused as he says those words.
HIJIKATA: So, how you've been? Doing well these days, I hope? CHOICES
> Just great!
> I could ask you the same back in return.
> Good enough, thanks. > Just great!
HIJIKATA: ...that so? Well, that's certainly good to hear.
> Toshirou smiles. (+1)
> I could ask you the same back in return.
HIJIKATA: ...you don't have to concern yourself with me.
> A wry look crosses Toshirou's face. (+2)
> Good enough, thanks.
HIJIKATA: ...I see.
> Toshirou nods.
HIJIKATA: A whole lot of things have happened since you came here, huh? Truthfully, if I had been in your shoes I wouldn't even know what to do... at least its nice to see that our leader is so dependable.
> Toshirou smiles.
HIJIKATA: Alright, I suppose that's enough of talking; let's eat before our food gets cold.
> Both you and Toshirou began to dig into your respective meals...
> ...as you eat, you actively try to avoid the pile of mayonnaise that is on Toshirou's food.
[Scene cut]
> Both of you have finished your food.
HIJIKATA: [With the '♪' mark] Well, that certainly hit the spot. Nothing like some mayonnaise to make everything take a whole lot better.
> ...you decide not to comment.
HIJIKATA: ...well now that we're done, I suppose we should head for the manga café now.
> Both of you leave the restaurant and head towards the manga café.
[Scene cut]
> Both of you have arrived at the manga café.
HIJIKATA: ...I guess its time to head in. After you, I suppose.
MAN'S VOICE: Oh, so there you are.
HIJIKATA: [Annoyed face] ...not again...
> The woman from last time has come again, this time with a stern-looking man.
MAN: We came to school in order to pick you up, and instead you've run off with your friend without even bothering to contact us! Do you know how worried we were?
HIJIKATA: I told you before already, I can take care of myself!
WOMAN: Don't you use that tone on us, young man!
HIJIKATA: I'll use this tone if you're pissing me off, like now!
MAN: Show some manners to your own parents!
HIJIKATA: How the hell can I respect the people who dumped me?!
MAN: .........
WOMAN: That thug must have really influenced you badly...
HIJIKATA: Stop talking about Shinji like that! He's not a thug at all!
WOMAN: He certainly looked like one.
HIJIKATA: You don't know anything about him!
WOMAN: I know that he was at least a bad influence on you, just as your father said.
HIJIKATA: You--!
> Toshirou looks like he's ready to get violent...
> What will you do? CHOICES
> Speak out
> Intervene
> Do nothing > Speak out
> You spoke out in order to try and calm Toshirou down.
HIJIKATA: .........
> Toshirou scowls even more. It seems as if he isn't going to listen to reason now...
> Intervene
> You stepped out and attempted to stop Toshirou from doing anything rash.
HIJIKATA: ...! What are you doing?!
> Toshirou calms down a little. It seems you've gotten through to him a little.
> Do nothing
> You quietly stood by and watched Toshirou.
HIJIKATA: .........
> Toshirou doesn't seem to be relenting anytime soon...
> There is a tense pause in the air...
HIJIKATA: ...I'm not going to waste my time on idiots like you.
> Toshirou seems to have relented.
HIJIKATA: Let's get away from here, Minako. I've had enough of this.
MAN: Don't you dare walk away from me like that--
> Toshirou walks away before the man even finishes...
WOMAN: He's getting more and more uncontrollable...
> Both the woman and the man leave as well.
> ...
> ...you decide to go after Toshirou.
[Scene cut]
Outside the dorm...
You found Toshirou sitting on the steps of the entrance.
HIJIKATA: ...oh, its you.
> Toshirou glances down back onto the ground and sighs. CHOICES
> Mind if I join you?
> Can I sit here? > Mind if I join you?
HIJIKATA: ...sure.
> Can I sit here?
HIJIKATA: ...okay.
> You moved and sat down beside Toshirou.
HIJIKATA: ...
> A strange silence falls upon Toshirou...
> ...it continues for the next few minutes... CHOICES
> Still thinking about what happened?
> ...you okay?
> Sorry. > Still thinking about what happened?
HIJIKATA: ...yeah.
> Toshirou sighs again.
> ...you okay?
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, I'm fine.
> Toshirou attempts a smile. (+1)
> Sorry.
HIJIKATA: What are you apologizing for? Idiot.
> Despite the words, Toshirou smiles slightly. (+2)
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: I really blew my top this time, huh...
HIJIKATA: But they keep talking crap about Shinji, thinking he's one of those thugs... he's nothing like that at all. Why can't they just understand that?
HIJIKATA: ...then again, I guess it isn't their fault. Shinji's always been like that, even back when we were younger...
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: To be honest... I've never liked fighting a whole lot. People get hurt from it so easily, and they can even die if things go bad. That's why I never was keen in joining SEES... because fighting isn't my style. Even against the Shadows... humans are part of them, after all.
HIJIKATA: But then Shinji joined... so I joined as well, back then. It was weird, being the youngest back then... but I managed somehow, I suppose. And then that incident happened...
HIJIKATA: Personas were all still relatively new for us back then, so we had no real means to control it... Shinji lost control of his, and because of that Ken's mother was killed. After that incident, Shinji quit SEES and stopped using his Persona. I did the same as well.
HIJIKATA: And now after all this time... to think that things ended up this way...
> Toshirou looks back down onto the ground as he sighs.
HIJIKATA: I know I shouldn't be like this... but I just can't stand them when they talk about Shinji like that. It's like an insult to his memory... CHOICES
> It's understandable.
> Shinjiro-senpai was important to you.
> I'm sure they'll understand in time. > It's understandable.
HIJIKATA: ...I guess you know the feeling, huh?
> Toshirou smiles wryly. (+2)
> Shinjiro-senpai was important to you.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, he was.
> Toshirou closes his eyes. (+1)
> I'm sure they'll understand in time.
HIJIKATA: ...you think so? That's pretty optimistic.
> Toshirou smiles slightly. (+1)
HIJIKATA: ...you're really good at this listening thing, aren't you? No wonder you're the leader.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: Thanks for listening again.
> You feel Toshirou's feelings through this incident, along with the thanks he gives you. You feel as if you can understand him a little better now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 7!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: I guess since we're at the dorm, might as well head in. It's getting late anyway.
HIJIKATA: ...let's do our best for Tartarus this evening, if we're going tonight. I'll be trusting you as always, leader.
> You head back into the dorm with Toshirou.
level six ← level seven → level eight | top
LEVEL EIGHT Gekkoukan High School, at the school gates...
You and Toshirou decided to meet here before figuring out where else to go.
> ...
> ...
> ...
> You have already waited for a while, but it seems that he's still not here.
> What will you do? CHOICES
> Head back into school to look for him
> Stay at the gates and continue waiting > Head back into school to look for him
> You wonder if you should head back into school to look for Toshirou...
> There is a possibility that he might still come out at any time...
> ...you decide to wait for a while longer instead.
> Stay at the gates and continue waiting
[No response]
> ......
> ......
> ......
> Toshirou still hasn't come yet...
> What will you do? CHOICES
> Continue to wait at the gates
> Go back to class to try and find him > Continue to wait at the gates
[No response]
> Go back to class to try and find him
> Perhaps going back to class would be a good idea... but homehoom has already ended for a while...
> It's more likely that he isn't in class at all, and you have no idea where else to look...
> ...you decide to wait for a bit more.
> .........
> .........
> .........
> Toshirou still hasn't turned up...
> What will you do? CHOICES
> Contiune to wait
> Leave
> Go back to school and search for him > Contiune to wait
[No response]
> Leave
[No response]
> Go back to school and search for him
[No response]
[Phone suddenly rings after choice selection, and MC picks it up.]
HIJIKATA: ...hey, you there?
HIJIKATA: Sorry about the suddenness of this... but I don't think I can meet up with you today. CHOICES
> Did something happen?
> Its okay. > Did something happen?
HIJIKATA: ...uh, well...
> Toshirou sounds distinctly uncomfortable.
> Its okay.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks.
> Toshirou sounds relieved. (+1)
HIJIKATA: ...you see, earlier on my old man had a health scare. Apparently a minor heart attack, or something. I'm actually at the hospital now.
HIJIKATA: ...apparently its not the first time too, and there's a possibility that his health is already pretty bad, since he's pretty old and all...
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou falls silent on the other end... CHOICES
> How are you doing there?
> Is he better now? > How are you doing there?
HIJIKATA: ...I'm fine. I was just really surprised when I got the call about this, but now that the scare's over I'm better now.
> You can hear Toshirou's relief through his words.
> Is he better now?
HIJIKATA: ...ah, yeah. He is. Though he'll need to stay in the hospital for the day to observe him and make sure that nothing else crops up... but he's fine for the most part, at least.
> Toshirou sounds a bit happier over the line.
HIJIKATA: *sighs*
HIJIKATA: I didn't even know that his health was this bad... I should have known better...
HIJIKATA: And all this time I've been a jerk to them due to Shinji...
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: ...I guess all they wanted to do was to see me before anything happened...
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: ...at least he's still alright... CHOICES
> Don't worry so much.
> I'm sure he'll be okay. > Don't worry so much.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, I guess that won't really help.
> Toshirou seems to be laughing quietly. (+1)
> I'm sure he'll be okay.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, me too.
> Toshirou sounds a bit more relieved after hearing those words. (+1)
HIJIKATA: ...thanks for picking up the call. I think talking to you helped, just a little.
> Though something serious has happened to Toshirou's father, you can now feel the genuine concern he has for his parents.
> You feel as if you understand Toshirou a little better now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 8!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...I should probably hang up now. I'll talk to you back at the dorm later.
HIJIKATA: Sorry again for holding you up like this. CHOICES
> No problem.
> Its okay.
> Take care of yourself first. > No problem.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks again.
> Its okay.
HIJIKATA: I'll make it up next time.
> Take care of yourself first.
HIJIKATA: ...ah, sure.
> Toshirou hangs up the phone.
> It's getting dark out, so you decided to return to the dorm.
level seven ← level eight → level nine | top
LEVEL NINE Naganaki Shrine...
Toshirou brought you here after you agreed to go out with him.
HIJIKATA: Sorry for dragging you all the way out here... but I figure that this would be the best place to talk and stuff.
> Toshirou glances down onto the ground after saying that.
HIJIKATA: My old man... he's fine now, if you're wondering. Just got discharged the other day. The doc told him to remain at home to rest, but he's still working even in bed... CHOICES
> You should tell him to rest.
> Why is he doing that? > You should tell him to rest.
HIJIKATA: I did, but...
> Toshirou sighs loudly.
> Why is he doing that?
HIJIKATA: Well...
> Toshirou scratches the back of his head awkwardly.
HIJIKATA: You see, I sort of found out... the reason why my old man even collapsed in the first place was because he had been overworking... trying to earn more money so that he could support me. They both aren't very rich, y'see...
HIJIKATA: ...part of the reason why they gave me up in the first place was coz' they couldn't afford it back then. A kid put too much strain on their budget, and they didn't have much.
HIJIKATA: Apparently they've been regretting that ever since they did it, and they want to make it up to me in any way they can now that they've found me... CHOICES
> Isn't that a good thing?
> You should make the most out of it.
> Is there something wrong? > Isn't that a good thing?
HIJIKATA: ...I guess it is, but...
> Toshirou seems hesitant for some reason. (+1)
> You should make the most out of it.
HIJIKATA: ...you think so?
> Toshirou seems surprised by your answer. (+1)
> Is there something wrong?
HIJIKATA: Hah, it seems that nothing ever escapes you.
> Toshirou smiles wryly for a moment, before sighing. (+2)
HIJIKATA: You see... I'm not quite sure what to do. Now that I know their intentions, its hard to just discard them especially since they're all about me. But then a part of me doesn't really care... because it doesn't matter since Shinjiro isn't here...
> Toshirou keeps his gaze down to the ground again.
HIJIKATA: Shinjiro... I don't want to let him go, not when he's so important to me. Right from young he's always been with me, and now... I'm just not sure if I can let the memories of him go just like that. I know I'll have to if I want to properly accept my folks, but yet...
HIJIKATA: [sighs] ...I don't know what I should do. CHOICES
> Do what you think is right.
> Give yourself sometime to think about it.
> I know you'll make the right decision eventually. > Do what you think is right.
HIJIKATA: What I think is right, huh...
> Toshirou makes a wistful face at that.
> Give yourself sometime to think about it.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, I guess that works.
> Toshirou nods.
> I know you'll make the right decision eventually.
HIJIKATA: Hah, I didn't know you had that much confidence in me.
> Toshirou laughs softly. (+1, Lovers flag number three)
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: ...and here you just stayed and listened to me rambling on again like always. I don't know if anybody else can do what you do... no wonder you're the leader.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: Thanks again. I owe you.
> You can feel Toshirou's sincere gratitude in his words. You feel as if the both of you are closer now...
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou art I... and I are thou... thou shalt have our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached Level 9!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has grown!
HIJIKATA: ...well, there's that. We should grab a bite before heading back to the dorm. How does ice-cream sound?
> You went to the convenience store with Toshirou to get some ice-cream before returning to the dorm with him.
level eight ← level nine → level ten | top
LEVEL TEN Gekkoukan High School, Rooftop...
After agreeing to meet with Toshirou, he brought you up here.
> The view from the roof is as wonderful as always...
HIJIKATA: [laughs] You like the view as well, don't you? CHOICES
> I do!
> Loads of other people do as well.
> Do you? > I do!
HIJIKATA: That so? ...that's good to know.
> Toshirou looks amused.
> Loads of other people do as well.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, this place does give a great view.
> Toshirou shrugs.
> Do you?
HIJIKATA: ...well...
> Toshirou seems to be embarrassed.
HIJIKATA: ...I used to come up here a lot, back when Shinji was here. He'd skip out on class a lot and stuff... I would to, sometimes, just so that I could hang out with him.
HIJIKATA: [laughs] He was never happy about that. Everytime when I did that, he'd hit me on the head and say something like 'you should be studying'. He would have this really annoyed face as well when he did it.
HIJIKATA: ...he was rough from the start, but he's always protected me all this time.
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou looks downwards.
HIJIKATA: ...I called you up here because I wanted to tell you that I made a decision. CHOICES
> Decision?
> So what did you decide? > Decision?
HIJIKATA: The one with my folks. You forgot about it already? ...well, its alright.
> Toshirou smiles.
> So what did you decide?
[No response]
HIJIKATA: After thinking about it, and everything... I've decided to live with my folks. Well, not immediately of course; I'll only move in during spring break, after graduation.
HIJIKATA: I think... I mean, I guess that I need to move on with my life. Shinjiro's important, but I can't hang onto him for the rest of my life... he wouldn't be pleased if I did anyway. He'd most likely smack me for it like always. And then say something along the lines of 'grow up already, seesh, I can't take care of you forever'.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: I know... I know that he's watching over me even now, making sure that I do what is right. Perhaps joining SEES might not be the best decision... but now that I have, I'll see through it until the end still no matter what. Not just because for Shinji like before... but for myself as well. I don't want anybody else to suffer because of Shadows and the Dark Hour.
HIJIKATA: Once the Dark Hour is gone... then tragedies like the one with Shinjiro won't ever happen again. And I think... that'll be a good thing for everyone... and for all of us. CHOICES
> That's the spirit!
> I'm glad you made your decision.
> I'll be rooting for you all the way. > That's the spirit!
HIJIKATA: [laughs] You never seem to be down at all, don't you?
> Toshirou is amused.
> I'm glad you made your decision.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, and I've got you to thank for that.
> Toshirou nods.
> I'll be rooting for you all the way.
HIJIKATA: ...thanks.
> Toshirou smiles.
HIJIKATA: ...oh, right. Here, have this.
> Toshirou fishes out something from his pocket.
HIJIKATA: Hold out your hand.
> You brought out your hand.
> Toshirou pressed something into your palm.
HIJIKATA: I hope you like it.
> Toshirou pulls his hand back, and you see what it is that he has given you...
> Obtained Handmade Keychain.
HIJIKATA: ...I made it myself. Not too good with stuff like these, to be honest... but I guess something handmade would be more meaningful that something I would buy. CHOICES
> I'll be sure to treasure it.
> That's really nice of you.
> You didn't have to. > I'll be sure to treasure it.
HIJIKATA: Ah... thanks, I guess.
> Toshirou looks embarrassed.
> That's really nice of you.
HIJIKATA: ...I just wanted to do something meaningful, that's all.
> Toshirou seems to be rather embarrassed.
> You didn't have to.
HIJIKATA: I did it anyway, so you're going to have to keep it.
> Toshirou smiles wryly.
HIJIKATA: If it wasn't for you talking to me all this time, listening to me and helping me every step of the way... I don't think I'd have been able to reach where I am now.
HIJIKATA: So... thanks. I appreciate it a lot. You were a great help.
> With his words and actions, you can sense Toshirou's complete and utter sincerity towards you.
> After everything that you two have been through, you think you can understand his intentions and well-meaning towards you and the rest of SEES.
> You can feel the amount of trust and gratitude that Toshirou has for you now.
> ...?!
> A mysterious voice rings in your head...
Thou are I... and I am thou... the bond thou hast nurtured hath finally matured. The innermost power of the Hanged Man Arcana hath been set free. We bestow upon thee the ability to create Attis, the ultimate form of the Hanged Man Arcana...
> The Hijikata Toshirou Social Link has reached its maximum level!
> You have mastered the Hijikata Toshirou Social Link!
> Your power to create Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana has reached its maximum!
> You have forged a bond that cannot be broken!
> The Hanged Man Social Link is at its maximum level; you can now create Attis, the god of rebirth!
HIJIKATA: So now that all of that is over, how about we celebrate with some ramen at Hagakure? It'll be my treat this time round. CHOICES
> You're on!
> It had better be the special! > You're on!
HIJIKATA: Ha! You'd better make sure to eat up everything, or there'll be no next time.
> Toshirou grins.
> It had better be the special!
HIJIKATA: Of course it'll be, who do you think you're talking to?
> Toshirou laughs.
HIJIKATA: Alright alright, let's head over to Hagakure then. If we're going to Tartarus again tonight, we'd better make sure to have all our energy, yeah?
> You spent an enjoyable afternoon with Toshirou.
level nine ← level ten → lovers | top
EXTRA SCENE (LOVERS) The dorm...
You brought Toshirou here after much insistence.
HIJIKATA: ...so, what did you bring me here for? I mean, we don't really have much else to talk about now. Don't you have the other guys to hang around with? CHOICES
> I want to hang out with you more.
> I want to tell you something. > I want to hang out with you more.
HIJIKATA: ...well, you could have just said that instead of dragging me out here. I guess we could go to Hagakure again if you want... how about that?
> You went out with Toshirou and spent the rest of the day with him. [Skip to Evening]
> I want to tell you something.
[Scene continues]
HIJIKATA: Tell me something? Tell me what? CHOICES
> I love you.
> Will you go to my room? > I love you.
HIJIKATA: Wha-what? Don't just say something like that out of the blue! [Scene continues]
> Will you go to my room?
HIJIKATA: Wha... of course not! Why would I even do that?! ...are you trying to be funny, coz' I'm not at all. If you're done, then I'm leaving.
> Toshirou brushes you aside and leaves the dorm. [Skip to Evening]
HIJIKATA: Do you even know what you're saying here? Saying stuff like 'love' out of nowhere... CHOICES
> But I do love you.
> I'm being serious here! > But I do love you!
HIJIKATA: ...
> Toshirou stares quietly at you. [Scene continues]
> I'm being serious here!
HIJIKATA: I don't really see any meaning in this... I'm just going to leave now.
> Toshirou hurriedly exits the dorm... [Skip to Evening]
HIJIKATA: You... I'm hardly the best kind of guy, you know. Do you even understand what you're going to get yourself in? Once you're in... you ain't gonna come out of it like before. CHOICES
> Don't you trust me?
> I've made my decision. > Don't you trust me?
HIJIKATA: Of course I do, but this is... no, this isn't going to be right. I can't do this... I'm sorry.
> Toshirou walks past you quickly and heads out of the dorm. [Skip to Evening]
> I've made my decision.
HIJIKATA: ...look like you're really set, huh.
> Toshirou sighs. [Scene continues]
HIJIKATA: But even if you are... I'm really not a guy you should get attached to. I mean... there's really nothing good about me at all. CHOICES
> I know you're good inside.
> Even so, I still love you. > I know you're good inside.
HIJIKATA: ...don't say something like that with so much confidence.
> Toshirou looks down, embarrassed. [Scene continues]
> Even so, I still love you.
HIJIKATA: No, I won't accept that. You're just... better off with other people. Stop thinking about me... I can't do this.
> Toshirou looks away and goes out before you can say anything else. [Skip to Evening]
> Toshirou stays silent for a long while...
HIJIKATA: ... are you sure you won't regret this? CHOICES
> Positive.
> Definitely. > Positive.
HIJIKATA: ...
> Definitely.
HIJIKATA: Idiot...
[Scene cut]
Toshirou's room...
Toshirou brought you up here after you persuaded him to do so.
Apart from the usual things, there doesn't seem to be a lot in the room...
HIJIKATA: ...so, you happy? Saying all of those weird things out of the blue and making me bring you up here... luckily there isn't anybody else in the dorm now.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: At least that means I can do this.
> ...
> Toshirou suddenly reaches out for you and embraces you close against him.
HIJIKATA: Why did you even have to say all of those things...? Damnit, I already told myself I would never, and still now... like this... its all your fault, you know. For saying something like that so suddenly...
> ...Toshirou lets you go.
HIJIKATA: You still staying here? I'm not going to blame you if you want to leave, you know. I mean... you should, really. CHOICES
> I'm staying no matter what.
> Leave the room. > I'm staying no matter what.
HIJIKATA: ... [Scene continues]
> Leave the room.
HIJIKATA: ...yeah, you'd better.
> You left Toshirou's room. [Skip to Evening]
HIJIKATA: Why do you have to be so troublesome...?
> Despite the words, there is a small smile on Toshirou's face.
HIJIKATA: ...if you're going to stay here, then I'd better tell you this...
HIJIKATA: You can't turn back now, once I start. There ain't any going back from here. I'm not going to stop.
HIJIKATA: ...
HIJIKATA: I can't stop, anyway.
> ...
> You spent a long time with Toshirou.
level ten ← lovers → epilogue | top