TAROTOBER: STRENGTH AND THE HERMIT

 WARNING: THIS POST CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS OF TOPICS YOU MAY FIND OFFENSIVE. DISCRETION IS ADVISED.

STRENGTH

Strength is the 9th card of the Major Arcana is ruled by the star sign Leo, as evidenced by the lion in the artwork. It is Designated 8

A Woman Attempts to open the jaws of a lion with her bare hands, An Act which not only requires physical strength, But the Courage to do it, and the Fortitude to carry it out.

This card means Strength in all its forms: physical strength, Courage, Honesty, Willpower and Fairplay. If used to Inquire about illness, this is usually the card sought after for quick recovery. 

For a single person this card represents, it's usually someone who Job requires working with natural items of some manner, or someone Born under Leo.

Ready to throwdown in this Five-way (PAUSE!) Are Yuko Nishiwaki, Persona 3's Sports teams manager,  Kou Ichijo, the Basketball team route, Daisuke Nagasei, Persona 4's Soccer Route, Justine and Caroline, Persona 5's Petite Prison Guards. And finally Karin Kanzuki Heir to the Kanzuki Fortune and Kanzuki-Ryu Fighting Style!

Yuko Nishiwaki

We met Yuko last time as part of Kazushi's Social Link last month. Yuko is the manager of whatever team you join. If you choose to talk to her after training, you'll start her social link by ending up in The Cafe at the mall.

Despite being a great Manager for 3 different sports teams, Yuko doesn't seem to be motivated in any other aspect of her life, she's unmotivated at school and binge eats junk since her metabolism is so high, after all teenage years is all about fun, right?

However that Attitude trickles down, as she is constantly pranked and made to play nursemaid to the immature sports teams, But she is actually targeted by a girl holding a Grudge for "stealing her man", in truth, he was two timing them both!

One day in the mall, Minato and Yuko are bumped into by 4 young kids in the 4th grade who live in her building. They were moved off the park by bigger kids, and they mocked them saying they will let them play if they beat them in a race. Angered by the bullying, Yuko takes it upon herself to teach the kids all she knows. Soon the Kids Challenge the 6th Graders. Winning 2 and losing 2 races, it's a tie. But the older kids start showing some respect.

After Coaching the kids it seems Yuko's motherly instincts have kicked in and she really does entertain the idea of being a mother, but she sees sense and wants to a professional Athletic Manager, and it inspired her to do better academically.

Yuko goes from being the unmotivated girl to someone with the convictions to do what's right, though the gum prank was a thread that went nowhere, Yuko gets a point for being the both the straight and inverted meanings of the card's aspects!

Kou Ichijo (Basketball Route)

In Persona 4, If you join the sports teams, you have two choices. Basketball or soccer and you can befriend one of two best friends each with their own story. If you choose the Basketball team, you will follow the story of adopted Rich Kid, Kou.

 Daisuke tells Yu that Kou has being living on a side house on his parents estate. You see, his family are traditionalists, and don't approve of him playing Basketball. After Rich Bitch Ai Ebihara blags her way to become sports team manager (More on her when we cover the Moon!), Kou tells his friends he is indeed adopted, Due to his Matriarchal Grandmother wanting an heir and not seeing the Ichijo name die out with her son. But two years ago his mother gave birth to a daughter, so the line of succession is in question.

The week after, Kou doesn't show up to practice. You find him on the school roof, Lying there, Depressed. He stood up to his parents and they gave him his blessing, but he was at practice earlier and played, but something was off, he feels like his family doesn't need him, now they have a blood heir. And it's not because she is a baby, they are literally having tutors for 2 year old Shisiko! So Kou has an identity crisis, So Daisuke has a plan to cheer his friend up: a basketball match for Kou to compete in.

Despite the close game, the team loses. All that good will is lost on Kou, it only makes him feel more worthless. So he plans on going to the orphanage for information on his birth mother.

He learns both parents died of Illness when he was 6 month old, he's sad but feels better learning the truth except the rushed nature of the writing and the cleanliness of the letter can only mean it was written RECENTLY! This would cause others to react angrily at a lie like this, but Kou feels that for someone to do this, someone must really care!

So Kou confronted his parents and Grandmother and after a shouting match, they comforted their son. Returning to Basketball Kou feels like he found himself.

Kou's Story is about having the courage to stand up, and the Fortitude to keep on it, even though he felt like he lost everything, though gathering that courage once more he found himself. In the Story that is all about "Reaching Out to The Truth", this story runs a good parallel to Everyone else's Struggle with their true selves.

Daisuke Nagasei (SOCCER ROUTE)

If you join the soccer team, Don't expect an easy go at it. In fact the boys from Rural Inaba, Don't take too kindly of Big City folk joining their team. Luckily, you have Captain Daisuke watching your back, Especially when they lump cleaning duty on Yu. So to prove a point he helps You clean up, and offers to train you in secret, even if he acts like a jerk to some girls.

After Ai becomes the Soccer manager in this timeline, the others ask if he finds Ai Attractive. This leads to some light teasing that he takes to heart.

It's Match day and Yu is the star player, with Daisuke feeling proud he's part of the team. But the next day at practice, Daisuke is off his game and Kou is worried his breakup is getting him down, So when Kou arranges a blind date, Daisuke storms off. Kou argues but he's right, Daisuke needs to move on. He's being noticing his ex has being coming to practice, but after apologizing for not being as tentative as she was, only to find out she was not here for him but another player she's now dating.

Like Kou, the story of Daisuke is about negativity and identity at odds with each other, the difference is one needed Courage to deal with his problems, the other needed Honesty to deal with his. Turns out he is not gay, he does fancy a girl: Chie!

Justine, Caroline and *Spoiler Character

Left, Caroline, And Justine, right.

One Constant in the World of Persona is the Velvet Room, A world Between Reality and Dreams. Only those who had Signed a Contract can enter and everytime, the room had changed to suit the situation the hero was in.

For Minato Yuki, his room was a freefalling elevator for his descent to Earth.

For Yu Nurakami, It was a limousine, driving towards the truth

And for Ren Amamiya, For his feelings of being trapped for a crime he didn't commit, his velvet Room was a prison, his clothes become a jumpsuit, Igor poses as his warden and as always Igor is aided, but this time with not one, but two attendants. Twin girls, the Passive Justine and The aggressive Caroline, there is also a voice that steers Joker to trust Igor in the first place, a gentle girl's voice from a blue butterfly.

Like their Velvet Room Counterparts, your Wardens want you for a Fetch Quest for Personas they will use to kick your ass in 100 times In an optional boss battle, but while Margaret's Added nothing to the story, there is something to be earned here: The Truth.

As the list goes on, our Twin Wardens question their duties, the list of quests and even their Master, the letters on their Caps combined, they tell the true story: OXYMORON. They shouldn't exist!

It's when the Defeat of Councilmen Shido happens When "Igor" reveals his plan, Humanity has forsaken the leader he has chosen so instead, He, The False God Of Control Yaldaboath, will lead Humanity exactly as he planned. Sealing The real Igor in the Holy grail and using the Guillotine to sever the soul of the Velvet Attendant who saw everything into the twins and losing her memories. The same device had being used ironically to fuse Personas together. So Joker fuses them together into the original form the voice from the butterfly.

Lavenza.

Despite her Memory restored, Joker may now be tempted to join the False God as his Ringer in his wager against Igor. He offers his trickster to restore the world before his invasion, the same corrupt stagnant world, now filled with humans with no free will except him, he can do all he wants without consequence and if you refuse the Game continues. Lavenza Shocked the Trickster, tricked his Master. She reveals the Prison contains the rest of the phantom thieves, Rescue them, then Humanity.

As Self Aware Non Human Magical beings, The Twins themselves know they are are Joker's Strength Social Link. They Realise that to find the truth that they need the Fortitude to go through with it!

Personality wise, they are good Cop and Bad Cop with Caroline really enjoying kicking Joker up the arse into the Velvet Room!

"SHE DID KICK ME UP THE ARSE!"

Lavenza is very formal, a more refined version of Justine.

In the Extended Sequel, The Royal, you can bring them on play dates and date Lavenza, (Relax, she's just Small! If the twins are the sum of her parts, it stands to reason, she is double their age!)

Karin Kanzuki

"Always Win at Everything"

The Family Motto of the wealthy Kanzuki family.  Whatever it is Mr Kanzuki does, he has Amassed a great deal of Fortune, enough for a Mansion with servants on hand, a private holiday Island and, just for kicks, a space Colony. But not only are they a big deal in the world of Finance, But in Martial Arts, with her family having their own style, and dojo for Kanzuki-Ryu.

Originally a character from  Sakura's Slice of life manga, (more on her when we cover the Sun.) Karin one day bumped into Sakura. (Actually the latter bumped into the former, being late for school and bumped into Karin.) Besmirched by a commoner, Karin Challenged her to fight.

Are you sure her name isn't really Karen?

Sakura agreed, and Karin lost!

100 years of Tradition, beaten by a fangirl's unrefined, childish play- acting of Ryu's moves.

In her mind, Sakura had caused her family name a great Indignity, Never mind Shadaloo sending their men to rough up students of dojos to intimidate them out of joining the tournament. Catching up with Sakura, she bet her rival.

That did happen.

Then she killed Bison with a Satellite Death Laser her father's company owns.

WE NOW KNOW CANONICALLY, THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN!

After that, Karin new found Respect blossomed into Friendship. By the Events of Street fighter 5, it's her who is financing the tournament, it's in fact a ploy to drive out members of Shadaloo who sent chess pieces that are activation keys for a deadly space weapons called the dark sun.

Unfortunately, her Recruitment drive would trigger another evil, An ancient Aztec Entity called Necalli, a clay statue that comes to life when strong fighters' souls convene in one place.

How is Karin Supposed to Represent Strength?

She's not Physical Strength, since not only is she a 5 foot teenager, but her style is Similar to Akijitsu a style of gentle Counters and swift movements, not Displays of power.

She's not Courageous, she's not taking the fight to Shadaloo, she's hiding behind her chequebook, recruiting fighters.

She may have been Fortitude, But she if she was she would have known about and fought Necalli herself.

No She's Strength because the woman in the original artwork is blonde. That's it.

And before you say "But she has Wealth and Influence!" Doesn't that count?"

In the Tarot's Minor Arcana are 2 suits, The coin suit which deals in Wealth and the sword suit which deals in Influence. So the Tarot for milliena have made the point that Strength, influence, and wealth are separate things.

For once, Street fighter doesn't get a first round point.

Yoko-1

Kou-1

Daisuke-1

The twins-1

Karin-0

ROUND 2-PERKS

You have to join a sports team to get befriend Yuko. If you hadn't already, you unlock the Cargill Cafe, where Le Specialtae Le Maison is Collegen Coffee, a drink that raises your charm attribute. Finishing the Social link will gift you the kids Thank you letters, Proof that you can fuse for Siegfried.

From 4 onward the final Fusion for Strength is now Zaou Gongen. Choosing either team will increase the same amount of Diligence, but Soccer will grant you one Understanding point. Each Sport meets on Alternating days of the non-sports clubs (more on both in when we cover the Sun). Both sports teams unlock Ai as your Moon Social Link. You'll either get at the Max level, Kou's Adoption Letter, or Daisuke's Wire Brush as proof of Succeeding.

The Option to start the Twins Social link happens when you start the 2nd Palace, the Museum of Vanity and must be finished before Defeating Shido. All their Abilities are Prison themed, Group Guillotine will let you use 3 material for persona fusing before it upgrades to Guillotine Booster. Lockdown will toughen up a weakness before it's upgraded to Isolation, but at Max level you get Special Treatment, you can pay money to fuse for Higher Level Personas. Her token for completion is the Cell Key.

Karin has let Ryu stay at her Mansion for free in return of being her sparing partner. In return she has given him clothes to blend into society.

Yoko-2

Kou-2

Daisuke-2

The Twins-2

Karin-1

ROUND 3-INFLUENCE ON THE HERO AND HIS WORLD

Like all side Characters for persona 3. Yuko will constantly call you to hang out with you after school. Once again, you can only befriend her by joining a sports team and even then, it's optional.

For Brevity, all the side characters lend their support to the others in the investigation team to cheer on Yu when it seems Izunami has killed him. But only if you complete the link you choose.

For Clarity on the true story, it's Imperative you do the twins challenge, before the Qlipoth world level. Being a major part of the story, Both Twins are a high part in your "rehabilitation" even if they too are manipulated.

Karin has great respect for Ryu. In her Recruitment drive she seems to be always a day late to his last whereabouts, but is happy to see him when he fights to remove Necalli from her Estate. Ryu enjoys her confidence.

Yoko-2

Kou-2

Daisuke-2

The Twins-3

Karin-2

THE HERMIT

The Hermit is the 10th card, Designated 9 and ruled by the Zodiac sign Virgo.

In a foggy cleaning, Our Fool after years of living a life of Love, Work and everything from the Material Plain, has looked over his past and realized there is more to life than this, even with his time now being short.

Donning a Monk's Habit and Arming himself a staff for Stability and a lantern to light the way, the Old Fool has turned to Solitude and Introspection to learn the Mysteries of the Greater Universe.

The card means solitude and Introspection, not also Patience, Old Age, and the experience that comes with age. The staff and Lantern also have deeper meaning of Caution and Prudence: Sudden, impetuous actions will only result in folly. A Realization that the world changes in time as do it's  people. There is always something new to learn.

Inverted, the meaning is impatience, loneliness and Stubbornness. It's also a warning not to ignore advice from older people.

Uncomfortably grouped together are our 4 hermits "Maya", an avatar of an Online game,A fox living in Inaba's Temple, Futaba "Oracle" Sakura, and Oro Streetfighter's Century old Master.

"Maya"

On a free day Between Missions, Junpei (who we will cover as part of Judgement!) Gives you a CD-ROM of the game "Innocent Sin" (a reference to persona 2). Booting up the game, Minato soon joins the forum, you take the name Tatsuya and soon meets an avatar called Maya. (The names being a further reference to the love interest  in both Persona 2 games!)

As you continue to talk to "Maya", you learn more and more to guess who she is. It's Actually someone you know. She tells you her mother wants her to marry and how she spends weekends flat out drunk in the mall. So it can't be anyone of your school friends.

It's one of your teachers and she is confiding in you about work. All the time in text Speech.

After Spilling the Tea on the Staff and an effeminate businessman, Maya let's out she fancies a student.

YOU!

She even tells "Tatsuya" (You) she plans on seducing "that Orphan Student" (still you!)in real life. Innocent Sin's server is being shut down and Maya wants to save the game, but reconsider when she sobers up and reads her log. So she's going to let the game die, but before it does, she leaves you with a screenshot message admitting her love to you, this is your key item for Fusion.

But it's not the end. If you figure out Maya is Your Homeroom teacher, Ms Torumi, you can confront her and after the embarrassing revelation, she does thank you for making her a more reliable teacher, but she is embarrassed about it still.

"Maya" is the Straight, Inverted and Face Value all at once, she's a game Avatar of a single woman who spends the free time being Ignorant and Obstinate, while at work, looks poised and prudent.

The Fox

Persona is of course, a Japanese Game with Elements of Japanese life. You'll eat Takoyaki, you'll cram the train to School, you may even fight with, or against, Shinto Gods!

And it's that Spiritual Aspect we cover today.

To keep it Brief, There are Temples to fox gods called Inari who use real foxes as their proxies. These creatures would grant Blessings and wishes to those who worship them and care for their Foxes. The temple monks would offer food, wash and care for these foxes, but these shrines need Monetary offerings to do so. This comes In a box that Wishes can be written and placed in. These writing materials are called "Ema".

So with that as a primer, let's begin.

By gaining enough courage to enter the Dilapidated Shrine, you encounter a Fox, not a wild one, as it has a apron or bib around it's neck. In its mouth which he drops In front of Yu, is an Ema of a wish from a young boy, wishing his Grandfather's legs get better, he also gives Yu a leaf.

Said old man is the Shrine's Caretaker he sees the ema and the leaf, which he recognises as a herbal cure for pain. He rubs it on himself and feels better, offering money before running off. Yu wonders if the leaves the fox found will be useful healing items in the TV World, it seems the fox understands and will turn up in the TV World as a shopkeeper, Provided it had Human help to solve any ema written in the prayer-box.

Your Quests of playing Matchmaker, helping a dieter with her Cravings, Finding a lost dog, Helping a boy make friends, make toy models for a shopkeeper down in his luck, give Public Speaking lessons, help a man overcome his fear of cats, Returning a Wallet and fishing a Giant Catfish all require Patience and Experience. You will be given the runaround, but it will be worth it when I get to perks.

Futaba Sakura

During Sae Najima's interrogation of the Arrested Phantom Thief leader, Ren "Joker" Amamiya, she heard of all his exploits, how he was framed for assault when in fact he broke one up, to velvet rooms, to talking cats, to how even Sae's own sister was a Phantom Thief. This lead to the fourth heist. After the Castle of Lust, the Museum of Vanity, and the Vault of Greed, she wanted to know about their fourth target.

The Hacker for the Terrorist Cell Medjed, Ali Baba.

Unlike the 3 bosses before them, Ali Baba confronted Ren First. Given that Ren can traverse to the Cognitive world via app. It was only a matter of time, said app would pique the Hacker's interest. 

However "he" would have more of a personal reason to know of the Cognitive technologies.

Ali Baba had Bugged the Leblanc Cafe and learned of the Phantom Thieves. And planned to flood their identity on news media social if His demands aren't met. He claims to be going against Medjed and wants the Phantom Thieves to steal his heart.

However, Joker makes it known they can only target people whose names are known. However Makoto figures out that to plant a bug in the cafe, you must have intimate knowledge of the opening and closing times. Sojiro does mention that he found it very strange his Agoraphobic Daughter came here for her Dinner.

So The heroes break into the Sojiro Household to meet her in person.

Futaba is....a mess when we meet her first.

A trauma caused by seeing her Mother ran over by a car and the guilt it caused, has manifested into Agoraphobia, weak Social skills, and visual and Auditory Hallucinations of her family calling her a murderer, tasked in helping his Carer's daughter, Ren leads the Phantom Thieves into Futaba's Cognition for a Agoraphobic hacker

An Air Conditioned Pyramid.

The tomb of Sloth.

Inside there is a Shadow Futaba in with you, but unlike the others she is not the boss, she leads the Phantoms to puzzles to the treasure to memories that had since been tampered by her Greedy Family. (Refer to Sojiro's Story in Part 3)

We learn what happened. We are made to believe that Futaba as a girl threw a tantrum about eating out while her Mother did research on cognitive science. In truth she was targeted for murder by the government, under orders by Councilman Shido. 

In the real world, unlocking the puzzles, made the real Futaba Question her mental state, her mind causing the Hallucinations to worsen, causing a Cognitive Wakaba as an angry Sphinx to attack the Pyramid 

Futaba sees Joker left his phone behind and she, like others who joined the original trio would find herself in the Cognitive world, shouted out at by Wakaba for killing her. Shadow Futaba would tell her to stop remembering her mother as a tyrant and remember the truth. She has an awakening, and her Shadow becomes a Persona, an UFO named for the book said to restore life, Necronomicron.

To suit Futaba's skills as a hacker, Necronomicron is a support Persona, making Futaba a Navigator who can literally Hack perception. In her first outing creating a ballista from nothing to down the flying beast and take away Wakaba's Air Supremacy. After defeating the Sphinx, the now 7 heroes return to reality to see Futaba faint on her bed, but she's fine, Sojiro says she's crashed from lack of sugar.

After a celebration at the Beach, including how The hacker is "Beautiful after all", her Social Link is about her trying to cure herself of her long inflicted agoraphobia, Being a gamer she wants to meet in an electronics store but she has a panic attack that only leads to a police officer to think she is a missing child. She wants Joker to help her, she feels calm when Ren is around .

Sojiro wants his daughter to return to school, something she want to do also, so she writes a promise List of things to get better at before the new term starts next year.

This includes shopping for a game during a sale, and having Makoto escort you and her around school, which brings up painful memories of when she was in elementary school, she was bullied for her very high IQ and strange behaviour.  Her next challenge is to talk to a stranger, leading her to insult Mishima (more on him in the essay covering the Moon) However she does have one friend, from that time, a girl named Kana, who frequently emails Futuba. But she's on trouble, to pay off a gambling debt, Kana's parents make her pose for Underage Porn online. So Futaba requests a mission to change her parents hearts. After you defeat them, Kana and Futaba are happy their lives are given back to them, with Futuba gaining back the confidence to head outside. There is only one promise left one she may never keep, Get over Joker when he leaves for home!

On face Value, Futaba is the Hermit, Just by being an Agoraphobe alone, But for a party member, there needs to be more than just face value, And that is in her quest to fulfil her promise List, shows her Prudence and Greater Vision Aspects of the card. Before the transformation, Alibaba is the loneliness inversion (Since we learn there is no Medjed, it was only her) dealing with Fear and Social Anxiety, By Yourself, also requires Patience and Introspection. One of Video games greatest characters deserves a point.

Oro

Let's face it, it's a small wonder that Scrubs like Dan Hibiki can even compete in the Street Fighter Tournament when you compare the competition.

You have men who can pile-drive bears, Boxers who can punch elephants to death with one punch, Villains who split Ayer's Rock in Half, by simply running at it and Masters who can Sleep off Being Murdered!

But none can compare to 140 years young Master Oro.

Oro is so powerful, that to make it a fair fight for his opponent, he fights with one hand tied behind his back, or while holding his trusted Tortoise.

Shunning the world for decades to unlock the mysteries of the Universe, Oro would avoid Human Contact, moving from Japan to a cave in the Amazon Rainforest. Wearing nothing but the hammock he sleeps in, Oro Strikes an interesting look, resembling a wizened Sage or a demonic Bird. Detached from company, Oro would refine his art to the point past his self-placed handicap, and even beyond human limits: he can lift an opponent with only one arm, he can double jump and he can use telekinesis with Tengu Stone, pulling anything not nailed down as Projectiles.

After years of Seclusion, Oro would sense Ryu's, Gill's Akuma's and Bison's power all the way from Brazil. Hoping to pass on his experience, only to be saddened that all but Ryu were twisted by evil, taking more offence from Akuma, who even would call himself "a Master of Fists" in front of the Hermit. The two fought to a draw, Which only infuriated Akuma, that his opponent only fight him with just one arm. As he sat on a plane headed for home, Oro Decided to train Ryu the next time they meet, The only problem, Ryu is afraid of Oro.

As in, he literally sat on a plane home to Brazil!

Oro is back for Street Fighter 5, being Told a Vision by Rose, but messaged half-heartedly by Menat, but he knew himself of the death of Bison because he sensed it. Rose herself would visit the master, Worried about why she is she still alive, if Bison's and her lives are bound. And why is she so shocked that G doesn't have a soul. It was visiting Dhalsim in India for Meditation, Oro told the yogi what he could sense, Bison's Death did not destroy the Negative Psycho power, it only now permeates the world with negative energy enough for G's Message to be construed as Benign. Looking at the stars, the two elderly Fighters know that between them, they've seen enough evil, but they know that the world is full of good people and strong fighters who will finish the fight if they can't. 

Like Futaba, Oro is the Hermit in face value, but there is more, in fights against prideful opponents he tells them he was once like them, what happened in the past may be the reason he adopted the hermatic lifestyle, was bad enough for him to fight with restraint for the rest of his life, having to be introspective for the rest of his life. At his advanced age, Oro is looking for a successor and given that 5 follows the events of 3, and 6 will on, so will we see Oro pass on his Senjitsu to the New Generation?

Maya-1

Fox-1

Futaba-1

Oro-1

ROUND 2-PERKS

Not as Maya, but Ms Torumi, like all your teachers will ask you questions during your school hours. Which will raise your Academic Attributes. Her key item is the Screenshot to fuse for Amhamahiki.

The Fox can allow you to heal without using items in the entrance hub of the TV World, since there is no Shopkeepers there, but his services are expensive, but completing an Ema will give you a discount up to nine times. But these are the most labour intensive trials in the game. You need High levels of Understanding, Expression and Diligence to do most. To help your dieter, you need Chie to give you Meat Gum. You need to order something from the shopping channel on Sunday for a sticker, only for the Friendless Boy to ask for Stickers Kids Like, so you need to ask Nanako. (For reasons I will get to in the next essay, you cannot complete this after the final kidnapping.) To help the man afraid of cats, you need a fish to tempt a cat, so you need a fishing rod and insects as bait to catch a goldfish. Luckily the old man at the river bank who gives you his rod, is the same who wants to see the Guardian and the sea Guardian caught before he dies.

To get the true ending you must have max Expression to understand animals. When you return the temple is now renovated, with a Building Foreman tell you they will chase you off like that fox. However at max Expression you will meet her (Yes, he was a she after all.) And to thank you, she and her cubs give you an ema of gratitude to fuse for the new ultimate, Ongyo-Ki. At random days you can pet the Fox for costumes, a traditional Chinese Dress and Tracksuit for Chie, a Vigilante costume for Kanji, and an One Piece reference for Teddy.

You need at least Level 3 Kindness to help Futaba with her mental health, as well as complete her Mission "She is Only a Meal Ticket". As a Navigator, her Persona gains Support moves, starting with Moral Support which casts Healing magic, Mementos Scan, position hack, which may start a battle with weakened enemies, active support, which will heals SP, Treasure Reboot, which may respawn loot after battle, Emergency Shift, which can allow you to switch to dead teammates during battle and final guard, the Navigator's archetypical "Take One For The Team" Defensive Move. Her Key Item is not just Joker her real item is the same Promise list.

As of Current Canon, Ryu has just met Oro. 

They have trained without noticing one another, With Ryu stating in the same ending that The Old master frightens him. Their training is yet to begin, so I cannot reward any points for perks just yet.

Maya-2

Fox-2

Futuba-2

Oro-1

ROUND 3-INFLUENCE ON THE HERO AND HIS WORLD

The Maya Social Link is completely optional, and even without it, Ms Torumi never Deviates from being your teacher. 

Given the crazy situation they are in, no-one on the Investigation team bats an eyelid on how a fox got into the TV world.

Futaba is an endearing, funny and cheeky girl, who speaks solely in gaming terms, but it's her awkwardness that makes her endearing. She refers to Joker as her "Key Item" and feels calm when she is in his presence. When it becomes love, her reaction is priceless! Gameplay wise, this translates into Futaba coming in clutch, since Moral and Active Support are not once per battle, sometimes a boost is all you need.

Because Oro has being in hiding, he has only revealed himself to those with spiritual powers..as of Street Fighter 5, we have reached the end of what we currently know. With Ryu only starting to learn under Oro's tutelage.

Maya-2

Fox-2

Futaba-3

Oro-1

The winner is Futaba.

I'll return in July, for the next 2 cards. We will reach halfway, when we cover the Wheel of Fortune and Justice cards.

TAROTOBER PART 4: THE LOVERS AND THE CHARIOT!

 WARNING:

THIS POST CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS OF TOPICS THAT MAYBE BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. DISCRETION IS ADVISED

The 3rd Card Empowered by the Zodiac, The Lovers are powered by Gemini and designated 6.

The Lovers is the 1st of the Influence Cards that deal in Emotion after the last 4 were Society.

The Artwork is very well known and conveys the tarot's Mixture of pre- and Post-Christian Imagery. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve are holding hands as Above them, Cupid is ready, Bow drawn, ready to let loose a Arrow of Love. (Or in the image used it's The Archangel Michael giving his blessing) However in the tree of Knowledge behind them, The Serpent is Ready to tempt them!

The Lovers in Context with the Fools Journey, is that of a child reaching Sexual Maturity, and both cards in today's essay are intertwined, Not only the pleasures of Adulthood and willingness to please your love, But the hardships of Adulthood that come with it! Such as this is referenced in Persona 5, EVEN THOUGH ALL THE PERSONA GAMES ARE COMING OF AGE STORIES, The fact the Lovers and Chariot Social links are your first is not an Accident.

The  Card Means that a Decisive Choice cannot be made by Reason alone, but by putting stock in Happiness. Successful Relationships and Reconciliations. It also means Passion and Sex, but only of your Query is expressingly about Your Love Life. Inverted it means affairs, Indecision, and Emotional Loss.

It Goes without Saying, but in regards to a single person, it's your other half. Or someone born Under Gemini!

Our 4 lovely Ladies waiting in the wings of this love-match game are Yukari Takeba, the Unsightly Pink Archer , Rise Kujikawa, the Idol Formerly known as Risette, Ann "Panther" Takamaki, And Elena, a Kenyan Tribal Princess.

ROUND ONE-BACKGROUND AND CARD MEANING

Yukari Takeba

Yukari Takeba is most the Popular girl in her year at Gekkoukan High school.

A girl next door style young lady!

All the girls are her Friend, all the boys want her to be their Girlfriend

A Key member of the School's Archery team and Student Body Council's Event Committee, Despite all the hard work, nothing gets her Down.

IF Only they knew.

If only they knew about the Dark Hour, an extra hour of the day that freezes most in place and brings monsters to this world. To her Father who's scapegoated in causing a explosion to Cover up it's existence by the Wealthy Kojiro group. To having this trauma all her life, giving her access to a being called Io, a Persona. To having to take Orders from the Heir of the same Group. To having to move all over Japan shamed as the family of a bomber, to grow up seeing your Mother's way of "coping" was to have numerous lovers and affairs!

Yukari's Social Link is her reconciling with her Mother, who plans to remarry, in the story proper, it's about forgiving The Kirijo Group and family. Thus being the Reconciliation Aspect of the Lovers.

First, We not be Discussing her Character Assassination in The Answer. Base games Only! But Yukari, Despite having this Bedrock of Confidence and a Safety Net of Dear Friends was a lonely child who had Only a Talking Sailor Moon doll to talk to. She is also really broken about taken orders from Mitsuru Kojiro. It also toughened her up as she can hold her own when she is almost mugged by a gang. It's only when Mr Kojiro let's her know the truth via a tape recording and how in fighting between the board lead to the Scapegoating, when Yukari forgave them, though it was a hard sell for a time, But She was also there For Mitsuru when her father was killed moments later!

And though FES is not a base game we learn of Yukari's dream, which we see come to life, in Persona 5. Yukari becomes ....a Power Ranger....So she can spread the same message of Hope to children without guidance everywhere!

Unfortunately, Yukari is the least developed Character of S.E.E.S, Being beaten out by a dog and a toaster! She is "Pretty Girl" and will find herself in towels, bikinis and Maid costumes because Plot Demands It!

However for Card Motif She gets a Point!

RISE KUJIKAWA

On His Long Journey to Inaba, the 1st thing Yu would see is a rather Saucy Soda Ad with a Bikini Clad Idol! He Never would have Guess he would move to her home town, meet her in Person, Save her Life and become her Boyfriend!

Since 3 years Old Rise ("REE-ZAY!") Had being an Idol and Actress ever since she was entered into a competition by her parents. As a Girl with no real Friends and Low Confidence, she was Surprised she won and was Snapped up by an Agency. When she returned to school, the same people who ignored and bullied her, was now her friends. This Revelation at an Early Age, made her Hide her true Feelings behind a false smile and allowed her to be thrown in any costume and role she was asked of.

The Soda Ad Campaign was the limit, though and she Retired, Returning to Inaba to live with her Grandmother and Assist with her Tofu Shop. However Rise's Return bought a media circus with her. By then the Investigation Team had worked out that People who appeared on Tv, would be kidnapped that week. And the team had spotted a very Eager Paparazzi with Equipment to climb Telephone poles, the very same Place the first two Victims were crucified on later! Thinking they solved the case, They Had inadvertently allowed the real Killer, Detective Tohru Adachi, close enough to Rise to enact his plan. and just like that Rise Became the 5th Victim of the Midnight Channel.

The Broadcast Showed The Idol's Shadow Form dressed in another Bikini, vowing to Strip by the end of her Broadcast, In the Tv World Part of  it became a Strip Club. When they arrived, They Found Shadow Rise and Dozens of Copies from Magazines Come to life, telling her true self that deep down, she enjoys attention from men. When she denied it the Copies and Shadow Rise Combined into a Nightmarish Social Commentary on Fame at a young age!

The Team arm for Battle, But Shadow Rise is a different Persona than one they fought before, she is a Support Persona, who keeps Curing and Raising her Stats, the team could not make a dent on her. Until Rise realizes that she must reunite with her dark Counterpart. However all the talk of "Feeling Empty Inside" Triggers Teddy and His Shadow Appears. However the Team Now have Rise on side and her Shadow is purified into her Persona, The Princess Goddess of Light, Himiko as her new role of Support and Navigator.

Rise, even if you don't pick her as your Romantic Interest, Is so forward she might as well be. Canonically she is. Her Social Link is the Decisive Choice Aspect of the Lovers. She is in two minds on settling Down or Returning to Stardom. The Agency is hounding her but she has being replaced in movies and advertising. She Overhears some boys say her replacement is so much Better, because Risette was so "Fake". And though she is happy for her, she breaks down crying, knowing a huge part of her life is over. In the end, a fan letter Convinces her to return, but she wants to return not as a character, but as herself! She no longer wants to be painted in one way only for it to be washed off and discarded for a different Colour. No She wants to return as Rise, The REAL Rise! and she realizes that as Much as she loves Yu, both are leaving on their separate journeys in March. But she Promises the Next time She's On Screen the Smile on her Face will be real.

And by the time Persona 5 comes around, 4 years later in their timeline, Joker watches tv and sees Rise In a Music Video, Now turned 20, Is Now Performing a song about "Mature Love" and we are told she is wearing a Sexy Costume, Though I would have like a mention of Yu Being the reason behind it! Later on watching TV, we learn Rise had taken temporary time off to visit her Grandmother and help in her shop once more, so she has kept her promise.

Ann Takamaki

On Ren Amamiya's first day of school, he would meet 3 people who would decide how he would wield his newly contracted power of Persona. The Gym teacher, Mr Kamoshida, Ryuji Sakamato (More on him later!) But the first he met was a Japanese American called Ann (which is pronounced "Ahn" simply because we are hearing Japanese conversation as English, not the characters speaking English)

Ann lives in the same Building as Mr Kamoshida, so avails from Carlifts and free classes to go to Cast Calls. About that, Ann works as a model, as her parents, are in the fashion industry too. Of course this started rumours that She and the Former Gold Medallist Volleyball player are having sex, given the Somewhat Seedy nature of Ann's Work hours during the school hours.

Turns out it was true, or at least, Kamoshida Desired it. All it took was a off-handed comment on how the gym teacher see's himself as "King of the Castle" When the Mysterious Navigation App on Ren's phone, turned all of Shujin Academy into how he sees the world. This was his Palace, a world made of one's dark Desires. This was the Castle of Lust: complete with Gym class Dungeons, Students Concubines and a shadow Ann as his Sex Slave Princess.

In the real world, Ann would kindly rescind his advances, not knowing how Disgracefully Kamoshida would react. So he Threatened Ann's Best Friend, Shiho Sazuii,  by taking her off the volleyball team. When Shiho responded she would do "anything" to keep her spot, Kamoshida raped Shiho, Causing a chain of events that lead to Ann's Only Friend to attempt Suicide.

When Ryuji and Ren go to, well Blackmail Kamoshida, he instead threatens to expel all those within earshot. Overhearing them speak, Ann follows them, accidentally teleported and captured by Kamoshida's soldiers and confronted by the king, who not only truly acts like a pig. But Boasts about raping Shiho, and the worst thing? He doesn't even remember her name!

This sparked a literal flame in Ann, a Voice told her not to forgive him anymore. And so the flame and the voice shared a form. That of the Persona. A creature made of Ann's own Psyche named Carmen. Killing her Shadow self with a discarded sword,  the Phantom Thieves would return to finish their first mission, steal the Desires and change his heart to confess what he did in the real world, absolving the expulsion.

Ann's Social Link is the Fallout of the Events of the Castle Of Lust. Her Guilt in how she Spurred on Kamoshida's Desires. It does leave her with doubts on Modelling, and growing up. After all what if she does it again? She's also visiting Shiho in hospital and helping her rehabilitation, but she feels she's not strong emotionally. So she tries to train into confidence exercises as such. But work is getting in the way, it seems the agency are understaffed, as models seem to not turn up to casting calls, claiming they were told the venue changed last minute.

The Mastermind behind it is a model named Mika, who learns that Ann is so Natural at this Modelling Lark, that she's Shocked Ann only sees it as a hobby, but Mika twists her words to make her seem Inconsiderate. The Shoot's theme is Elegance of Women, something that throws Ann off, even if she wasn't a teenager. Ann Realizes how dedicated Mika is, Even with the Sabotage, She's Trained her Body, Dieted, Studied Fashion and then Ann arrives, lucks herself into jobs. So she tries to Work out like she does. 

Soon Shiho Returns to school, Siting Ann's Strength to get better as her inspiration. Later, Ann and Mika have a shoot together after Mika is reprimanded for her Sabotage. But Ann Forgives her, Praising she had her Beat without the need to Sabotage. During the Shoot People Comment on how more Adult Ann acts, and soon she realizes, it's not about being sexy it's About Confidence, and the difference being acting adult and being an adult puts her mind at ease.

Much like Rise, Ann's Social link is a major decision that cannot be solved by rationale. (Ironic since, despite being seen as an airhead, she is very rational and considerate.) Shiho's attempted Suicide caused some Emotional Loss, being the Inverted Meaning. But she would find the Strength subverting the form she takes in the Cognitive world, since everyone thinks she is a whore, her form becomes that catsuit. Ann's ability as a model is so Natural, Sae Nijima (more on her in part 12!) Likens it to a con artist. She even Seduces the Shadow of one of Councilmen Shido's financial backers, as "Princess Ann Windsor".

But there is more to Ann than looks. At the back of it all, there is this laid-back girl who loves deserts and anime. Becoming a Phantom Thief opens doors for her, soon she makes so much friends that they all her services as a translator on their school trip to Hawaii. She also reigns the team in, especially Ryuji, whenever they feel cocky and audacious! She also is hard on Villains who are Idiots or Self Destructive, but that could be Reflective upon herself.

Elena

First Appearing in Street Fighter 3, the 1st of only 2 Street Fighters from Africa, is a Tribal Princess from Kenya, despite being Sheltered all her life, Elena was  trained in Capeoria, and trained in Aura healing via her connection to Mother Earth.

One day, Elena's Father, Jafari, sensed Something on the wind, the trees screamed for the Safety of the Earth, a presence in Thailand so evil , it could not be human. Soon a battle with this great evil will commence with  other strong souls drawn to it. He wanted his son to compete to investigate, but instead Elena showed interest and nothing will deter her other wise once her mind is set on something.

Despite entering the Tournament, Elena's exposure to the outside world Distracted her, When she went to Japan, ended up staying with Sakura and her Family, ending up being enrolled in high school. Making friends Came easy and even though she she was in no way part of defeating Gill, (Canonically losing to Hugo, and because of a wager with Poison, they became A wrestling tag team!) Elena Decided to continue to see the world, spending new years in Japan, and ending up Paris. Elena had made friends with every fighter she met, even the Murderous Akuma, but it could work against her, last we saw her she befriended the so-called "President of Earth" , G. Who despite like her draws from the earth, doesn't seem to sense that he is made of the same evil energy as Bison, Seth or Gill.

Dressed solely in a bikini, on face Value, Elena does give off a sexual vibe, however seeing her Naive and Childlike enthusiasm mitigates the visual. Her seeing the world for the 1st time after years of Sheltering is the Decisive Action aspect of this card. In the grand scheme of things, Elena contributes nothing of merit, even in a world where the side characters work in some way to Neutralise the other badguys. She may appear in The upcoming Street fighter 6, but unless the Alliance with G had some changes to her Character, then her arc is already done!

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ROUND 2-PERKS

For Full Disclosure All Persona "Lovers" Characters Need level 2 charm, or In Ann's case, Kindness for them to hang with you. In every case the ultimate lovers persona is Ishtar.

For spending time with Yukari, you get the key item The Heart Strap from her Sailor Moon Doll as proof of being able to fuse Ishtar.

In her social links Rise gains a myriad of useful skills in her role as Navigator. She can Assist in All out attacks by Boosting Morale with her cheering, Scan Weaknesses, Reveal Stats, reveal the location of treasure and enemies, intervene with Himiko, to block a critical hit. And while healing wave randomly heals 5% after battle, it's more powerful upgrade, Stamina Song Doubles that amount. She like all the other characters in your party has a double awakening that transforms her Persona. Her gift to you is a Signed Photo, not of a fake idol but of a Genuine Smile. It's a shame the Tofu Shop doesn't sell in game items, something fixed in Strikers.

As a playable Character, Ann comes with all the Standard Moves. Baton Pass Follow Up, Talk,  Harisen Recovery, Endure and Second Awakening. Her Unique Abilities Crocodile Tears and Sexy Technique can be used to Acquire Enemy Personas easily, but are too Situational. To make up for these moves, Ann unlocks many places to explore in tutorial and social links, including but not limited to, the Family Restaurant, the Florist, a lottery kiosk, a park for Socializing, the Sky tower and Ferris wheel for dates and that does not include all the other shops you can buy gifts and room Decorations.

Elena had at least heard of Ryu from Sakura, if It was proven that she did Canonically meet him, she would just befriend him. But he is never mentioned or makes any real influence on either story.

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ROUND 3- INFLUENCE ON THE HERO AND HIS WORLD

Again, Fuck the Answer!

In the base game, Yukari is presented as Almost 2 different People, A generic Girl who is there to be fawned over and a whiny complainer when Any Girl talks to Minato. However her Social links Mitigates the bad points of her Personality.

While all the surviving Victims owe the investigation team their lives, It's Rise's Rescue that changes the course and Dynamic of the Group. With a Navigator, the heroes work smarter, not harder.  And with Rise enrolling in school, she is responsible for two events, a impromptu concert at the school festival, and a ski trip that revealed a house that had a second TV that lead to the TV World. She helps in investigating the murders, but with such a high profile not on her own.

Ann is the First party character you meet, so her involvement shapes the 1st few chapters. She is usually front and centre of all the tutorials. She did play big parts in uncovering Madarame and Shido's schemes, even if she had to play the bimbo she was thought to be to do so. But she has a Lust for life and a sense of fun that had lead to good times together. Even when fame went to the others heads she remained level headed.

Elena is cut and dry. She likes people who are good and hates people who are bad. Seeing Ryu fight barefoot she is convinced his Hadoken is power from his connection to the earth. If Ryu defeats Elena in Street fighter IV, he commented on how something else is on Her Mind.

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The winners are Ann and Rise.

THE CHARIOT

As Part of A grand Procession, a decorated Carriage Pulls into view to Celebrate the Victorious Roman Soldier within, Resplendent in his Armour and crowned with Laurels. The Chariot is pulled by 2 Sphinxes, Symbolizing the Mysteries of Fate and the Untold Future.

Designated 7 and ruled by Cancer, The Chariot Means Determination, Adversity through Hard Odds, Renewed Optimism, Travel and Motivation. If the Enquirer is Sick, this card is a good sign of Renewed Health. Inverted it means Arrogance, Stagnation and Frustration.

When it's used to represent a single person. It's usually someone who works are a reason that requires travel or long hours. Or someone Born under Cancer.

Our 4 next contestants are Kazushi Miyamito, a Sports Rival from School, Chie Satomaka, The High Kicker with the Shapely Legs, Ryuji "Skull" Sakamato and Zangief, "The Red Cyclone"

Kazushi

If you feel like not joining the student Council with Mitsuru, your first choice on school club may be a sport.

Which Sport?

Doesn't matter, because you'll always meet the Club Manager Yuko (she'll be in the next essay next month!) And Kazushi Miyamito, the top members of whatever team to join. Who makes it clear to the blue haired Minato for joining mid season, his ass is his everyday after school.

Not in a bully kind of way, but in a mentor/rival way.

First day of training and Minato easily beats Kazushi, having the advantage of training his body to fight demons. (And, of course, not being a Human!) Despite a pain in his knee, he vows on being on Minato's Level. On the second session, Kazushi collapsed, the same knee gives out! Despite the team telling him to take it easy, his pride won't let him! Next year is the national championships, one step close to his goal of competing in the Olympics. But turns out the knee is more problematic than first thought. If he keeps running he may never walk again. It feels like History repeating itself, his nephew has his leg broken in a car accident and now it's happening to him.

Despite giving his all, his spot on the team is on the line. But when the school nurse tells the coach what is really happening, Kazushi is coddled by the team ever time he does down.  Feeling guilty about letting the others drop in quality for his sake, decides to get the surgery.  Saving his leg but missing the Nationals. But at least he'll be doing Rehab next to his Nephew, who said that when he grows up, he wants to be as tough as his "Uncle Kaz"

Playing Both Sides of the Chariot, Kazushi is Arrogant at first, until the injury gives him the Determination, though it's a uphill battle. The Surgery counts as the Renewed Optimism. A Short Story, but it makes it's point!

Chie Satomaka

On the first day of school, Yu Nurakami had an eventful one. He meet his new best friend by pulling him out of a bin, he was insulted by his own teacher, and saw the same Guy from earlier, kicked so hard by a tiny tomboy girl.

Her name was Chie.

Protective of Yukiko, Tolerant of Yosuke, Chie was kind of a toxic friend to begin with. Boys would ask Yukiko out but Chie would intimidate most of them. She panicked when Yukiko was kidnapped and became the 3rd victim of the Midnight Channel. She accidentally followed the Boys to the Junes Supermarket and accidentally followed them into the TV world, after a failed attempt involving rope around Yu's waist.

Finding the castle where Yukiko was being held by her Shadow, Chie expressed her worries only for a mocking voice to call her out.... Her Own!

This "Shadow Chie" claimed that she exploits Yukiko and cannot stand Yukiko getting male Attention. Then Shadow Chie transforms and it's clear Chie's feelings of Yukiko may not just be of Just Friendship!

Shadow Chie was the first real challenge our heroes faced, but they endured despite the odds. Bearing the pain of her real feelings, Chie's Shadow Self was purified into its True Form, Tomoe

FUN FACT: Personas connected to playable characters have lives that are parallel to the Legends and stories that they come from. So Choosing Tomoe Gozen, a female Gozen ("Warlord"), who once fought 10,000 armed Horseback Soldiers barehanded was a good choice to be partnered with the Soul of the Hot blooded Chie.

Chie's Social Link centres around Training with Yu and having a old friend caught up with a gang extorting money from Teens and Kids. When Chie saves her friend, Sasuke, from a mugging, Yu steps in or pulls Chie aside. Either way, Chie Is Pissed at first, But she Realizes she way have the same feelings for Yu, as he does for her.

Now, for those getting into Persona via watching let's plays, you are probably asking the same question.

"But wait, Isn't She Gay?"

If Chie and Yukiko truly were, they would have turned down Yu's Advances. I think like Kanji, they are going through a lot of the same confusing feelings we all did as teenagers. I think that is an answer we can all agree on.

So anyway the Gang Returns and recognize Chie, and the leader remembers Sasuke's conversations with her, so he threatens the life of Yukiko. This spurs Her and Yu. But the fight is over before a single blow is dealt! She Realizes that the skill to fight is not to dominate, but to protect and so she discovers what her goal in life should be....Police work! And in Persona 5 we learn she follows Naito to Tokyo's Police Academy while Joker Is Watching TV one day.

There is more to Chie than kicks and Steak. Like Kanji, there is considerable amount of growth in this character. From minute 1 to the final act the change from Tomboy to Women is amazing. All coming from a character written to be oblivious on her own sense of her in others. Her Lack of Femininity in her own mind is a rich vein of comedy, she doesn't realize she is as beautiful as Rise and Yukiko and gets flustered when anyone even says things like that! On her New Day Temple Date, she reveals that her family tried to tease her on wearing a kimono in public, but she doesn't care, she does everything with a sense of Determination, even deciding to do better at school to insure that she gets into Police training.

She is also the Motivation aspect. As learning Detective Adachi"s only motive to kill was "Why Not?" She swore never to be like him!

Ryuji Sakamato

With his dyed blonde hair and thuggish demeanor, the Once Star track and field athlete's Big mouth Against Kamoshida disbanded the Track team after he attacked his teacher and now the "Vulgar Ape" was now friends with Ann "The Foreign Whore" and Ren Amamiya "The New Student with an assault Charge". What a trio to befall any school!

But just like Ann, he too was A victim.

Turns out, Kamoshida was bitter that his Volleyball teams did worse than a team he had no say over. So  in the assault it was Kamoshida who threw the first punch, bringing up Ryuji's Deadbeat Drunkard of a Father. Ryuji was expelled, all sympathy for his broken leg, gone. With the whole city seeing his mother take two jobs to make ends meet, Ryuji became a Pariah at school, All thanks to Kamoshida's Death grip on school's every matter.

Accidentally referring to him as King of the Castle, Ryuji was shocked to see the Sky turn Blood red and the school transformed into a seedy castle with Art of Kamoshida's Deeds on display: A Castle of Lust!

After being Captured by the Guards. Ryuji Snaps and his own Persona Awakens to change Ryuji's Clothes. If the world sees him as a thug, he will look like one while Pillaging hearts as he sets Sail on the Sea Of Souls with His Persona, Captain Kidd. Soon Ryuji would realise his words earlier to Ren would ring true That this school year will be awesome!

Ryuji is the other Tutorial Character he unlocks all the shops in the back alleys near Leblanc Cafe, Including a Gym, where he plans to get fit again to rejoin the Newly Reinstated Track Team after Kamoshida is fired, But Ryuji is out of Practice and fears that the team won't want him back. And he's right.

Working Out at Protein Lovers Gym, He Finds out his former senpai, Kaeda is working there. Ryuji apoligizes for Disbanding the Club, Kaeda instead turns it around and asks Ryuji's forgiveness, feeling bad for turning a blind eye, However he let's it be known that Kamoshida's Lapdog Student. Nakanora is the captain of the team. When the others find out. The team plan on beating him like a snitch. But Nakanora is not the real Problem. Turns out that EVERY Teacher in Shujin academy are Horrible, Horrible People, the new Coach, Yamuchi Plans on disbanding the Volleyball Team and use the publicity of the track team's Return to fund his career, all with Ren being at the same Saki bar listening. turns out Ryuji was in the other booth, recording away. and when he plays the tape to the track team, they are Reluctant to believe him. So he lets them beat him up to let it out of there system. 

So all's well that Ends Well, The track Team Fired Yamuchi and Kaeda's is back temporarily as manager. And Ryuji was Asked to rejoin...But he declined, after all he has a new team Now!

Boy, they Love their Sports at Atlus, Don't They?

Again it's the Determination Aspect Of the Chariot. The Motivation to Begin again! You may also say his constant swearing is possibly the Frustration Aspect of the Chariot.

Zangief

Patriotism.

It can be Good or Bad.

It could Narrow the Thinking or be Exploited by More Ambitious Men

But for Some Men, The love of his Country maybe His Reason For Existing!

And So Began the Story Of Zangief, To Prove the USSR Developed the Best Fighter in the World, Zangief trained "Old Country Way" He Danced The Hopi With Cossacks For Hours, He Pulled Tanks, he Took Ice Baths in The Arctic Circle. and he Wrestled Eurasian Black Bears, the source of his Many scars.

One day, he put one of his Furry Sparring Partners in a Piledriver, When a Cyclone Blew in the very moment of the Moves Impact, Caught in the flurry, the wrestler and Bear were Spun in the air and when they descended, The bear was knocked out. Inspired, Zangief would work tirelessly to perfect the Move. now called the Screw Piledriver and it would be his bread and Butter until he developed more powerful version like the Atomic Buster or Final Atomic Buster.

With the World Threatened By Shadaloo, Russia Sent Zangief to represent Them as a fighter and Ambassador, in what he was told to be a legitimate Contest. However Zangief uncovers with the other Side characters the Psycho Drive, a machine for cloning new bodies for Bisons. Its was Zangief piledriving the Sumo Edmond Honda over and over,That Destroyed the Psycho Drive. However to Bison's Body was already regenerated so Charlie in his Fighter Jet, crashed into the Secret Base, saving the world by paying the Ultimate Price. Maybe Strength is Not Restricted to only one country after all.

Years Go By and Street Fighter Returns for a forth game, And Zangief's Motivation has changed, Not by changing who he is, But by accepting how the world had Changed since 1991 around him. No longer a Soviet, Zangief is now all Loving Face, Gentle Giant and Friend to All Children, Rolled up in one Hairy Package! With His protege, Rainbow Mika in Tow (More on her in Part 9, IF WE GET THERE!) The Focus is now on "Muscle Spirit" Inspired by Ryu's And Dhalism's Spiritual Approach to fighting!

Despite what the Crappy Movie, The Crappy Cartoon by Dic and Wreck it Ralph Might tell you, Zangief is not evil, Just Because he's Russian.

He was a good man used by his government, though not exploited. Now in the 21th Century, who is Zangief? As the Youtuber SugerPunch's ABI-turial on the character remarked, there really is nothing after being the Russian Guy. He's iconic enough, being in the game that not only put Street Fighter, but FGC on the map. He has no character goals now. The quest for "Muscle Spirit"? Yeah, it makes no sense for a professional fighter of a sport that was so secretive on it's inner workings for years for two to go on a quest for knowledge. It makes sense for Ryu, he's seeking a power to control the Dark Hadou from taking over him. Dhalsim as a yogi is seeking enlightenment but by improving his belief in pascifism. But Zangief? He's on a quest for strength, but why? In Street Fighters full Story he's given a pawn used to activate the Black sun in Bison's plan. Why? Because stealing it back from weak fighters was his plan all the long. Ouch!

Also there is also the Rumour that Zangief is Gay! Due to a Bio claiming his dislike is "Girls". But this is in fact a cheeky reference to his Sf2 bio claiming projectile moves as his dislike, back then, Zangief had a hard time beating Shota characters.  However as time went on, the real-life meta game changed, and faster characters usually female would be and is still is a bad matchup for Gief players. And to be honest if being around Females makes him uncomfortable, then he would never pick someone who looks like

 

THAT! as his Pupil.

Though on being dedicated to his craft, Zangief gets a point.

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ROUND 2-PERKS

From Kaz, you only gain Sports Tape, as proof you can fuse for Thor.

Chie comes with all the Moves her Contemporaries come with, Recover, Follow up, Endure, protect. She also Introduces Yu, to 2 Shops that come in handy.

Aiya! Chinese Restaurant and the Local Works. The metal works will buy your loot and forge them into new weapons. 

But it's in this Chinese Restaurant, this worlds game breaking item. The one. The only. Rainy Day Beef Bowl Challenge.

If you order one of these Buddha Bowls filled with Beef and Rice. Understand you need Courage to do it, Intelligence to comprehend it all and enough Charm and Understanding to eat it without a sense of shame. The Challenge raises all stats in the attributes I just mentioned, but power ups that raise more than one do so in a smaller increment as the other powerups. Still, you can do this more than once, but only when it rains. Given you have a deadline of the next time the mist descends to rescue the victim, having at least one bowl may be the boost you need!

Ryuji unlocks a lot from minute one, at your doorstep there is: A Bathhouse, A batting Cage, An Arcade, A Big Bang Burger,  The Gym, A clinic, (more on the owner of said, when we cover death.) An Airsoft shop (more on the Owner of said, when we cover The Hanged Man) and Various secondhand shops for your Lockpicks and Infiltration Tools, In his Social Links he comes with of course, Baton Pass, Follow up, Talk, Protect, Endure and only one unique skill, Instakill allowing you to just slice through weaker enemies without having to battle them for their exp, or items. When you complete his link. He will make you one of his Ryuji Dogs, a Gyoza that is worth 100 Hp! But to do all this you need level 2 Guts, so you better start eating them Giant Burgers.

Zangief... Didn't make a good impression on Ryu or rather his best friend, Ken. After the American called Zangief A "Momma's Boy". Ending in a fight Ken lost. However post retcon Gief is more personable to everyone. Ryu has even went drinking with him after fights.

Kazushi-1

Chie-2

Ryuji-2

Zangief-1

ROUND 3 - INFLUENCE ON THE HERO AND HIS WORLD.

Kazushi is only a side character and as such will be 1 of dozens that will call you to hang out!

As a Tenacious Fighter, Chie had Cut a Swarth through Hundreds of Demons. While her Hot blooded temper may not give her the patience of a detective, she at least allowed Yu to train at her level of combat skill.

At first Ryuji is all in for being a phantom thief In secret, but he tries, even if it's funny, to use the that fact to score girls and become famous, eventually the fame does go to their heads And they fall out of favour of the Public in Large, all according to Yaldaboath's plan.

Ryu plays such an influence on Zangief, He develops moves solely to hide his weakness to Fireballs. First the Banishing Flat a slap that dissipates Projectiles, and Iron Muscle, a Double Flex that turns Zangief's skin Red as Molten Iron! It even gives off Heat, he also states to Karin (who we cover next month) he can now vibrate his body's Cells by flexing, Essential Copying Karin's Crimson Lotus and it's access to Chi Energy.

Now, you might think that  Formerly Non-Magical human Gaining magic Simply by Flexing is Ridiculous, remember that Guile and Nash can shoot sonic booms from their hands because as pilots, they understand Sound waves better!

Zangief is still Salty about the fireballs after all.this time , but Ryu tries to remind him that strength alone Doesn't Win Fights.

Kazushi-1

Chie-3

Ryuji-3

Zangief-2

Joining me next month as we reach the fool's golden years when we cover Strength and The Hermit!

The Royal Rumble 2022: something, something, Golden Egg, Pal!

 Welcome to the first review of 2022.

I'm once again, your Host, Eamonn Bermingham, Trying this year his hardest to reach 500 posts!

So let's get to it!

We open strongly with the Wwe Universal Championship match between Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins. The latter played brilliant mind games by dressing in the Shield Gear and coming through the audience. The Security looked confused and were scrambling to keep fans safe, so if you didn't think it was a work, you'd thought it was a real off the cuff decision. What followed was a back and forth emotional match, which ended with Roman getting DQ after The referee, Charles Robinson, checked Seth's arm which dropped into the ropes. Roman would then eviscerate Seth with a chair as it was now clear, Seth was now Babyface.

Now to the Women's Rumble match. A few observations. 1 the Forbidden Door, is exactly that! FORBIDDEN! AS the 1st 2 were Sasha Banks and the NWA's Melina Perez. They did a few poses but, Melina didn't not get a look in. A clear message to anyone who thought Mickie James would unify the Impact Knockouts belt with a Wwe belt In 3 months time.

2: So glad Dana had the sense not to bring the Catering Championship to ringside.

3: To Continue her feud with Naomi. Sonya Deville took out the Returning Cameron, who was only here, so She and Naomi could scrap. That's how we continue this whatever this has been. By bringing back the answer to a WWE Trivial Pursuit question!

4: Ivory returned as the Right to Censor Ivory. And it works. Being a bit older, Ivory now looks more stern and School ma'am like! She chastised everyone and she was eliminated in a minute. And you know what, I was expecting it to happen like that!

5: Was expecting Sarah Logan to beat Nikki Ash for wearing a mask in Public, the stupid Antivax moron!

But the real story. The return of Ronda Rousey who eliminated the entire spread. Ronda pointed at the sign which after the pyrotechnics display, was a smouldering pile all night!

After the shock return, noone had the Enthusiasm left for Becky Lynch Vs Piper Niven. HER NAME IS PIPER, VINCE! People were chanting let's go Piper, before the crowd mics were turned down. Becky retains.

Now to the Wwe championship match. First even though the event that lead to this match was made last minute due to Roman contracting Covid, the match for the title, thanks to the Video Package and Behind the scenes Training Videos online gave this Match, a Sports Based "Big Fight" Feel. From the moment Brock and Lashley locked up, you knew this was gonna be good. Both absorbed countless finishes, so we were never expecting a clean finish. A ref Bump later and Roman attacked Brock. And with Paul Heyman's Help the long con was Complete! Bobby Lashley stole the title from Brock Lesnar, and this will lead to the Main event later.

Mixed Tag was Shit! Noone cares!

In the most Lackluster Royal Rumble Ever! Everyone practically Told Johnny Nailballs and the cast of Jackass where they can stick their movie! Sami got the killing blow on Knoxville, but got eliminated later! In a bit of BULLSHIT! AJ Styles was eliminated by Dadjoke Loss! Also Bad Bunny Is back as a wrestler. So is Shane! But as soon as number 30 was revealed as Brock Lesnar, it was sewn up! The match we wanted to see at Mania, will happen Roman Vs Brock for the Wwe Title 3 months from now in Houston Texas! I cannot wait!

And that's it!

Join me in a few days when my next TAROTOBER essay drops. Over on Bogger Box Office on Tuesday. The review of Bad lands drops! And if you want to follow me on Twitter, even if I just drop links to reviews, play Twitter games and shout at gameshows, head over to @RealEnli on Twitter.

See you soon!

PEACE!

NEW YEAR SCHEDULE FOR 2022 TIL APRIL

Greetings from Ireland!

It's Eamonn once again with a schedule for this new year. Starting with the schedule for Enlightened towers.

SCHEDULE FOR ENLIGHTENED TOWERS

• January 30th- WWE Royal rumble
• April 4th-6th-Wrestlemania 38

PPV PRICES, SHADOW DROPS AND NEW EUROZONE SECURITY BULLSHIT!

Once again, I have to pick and choose my battles. And this year is the same as last year. The price hike for Sky which happened last month, is not going to effect the 2 month consistency of my reviews.

What will effect them is WWE's changes to have shows on either Saturday or Sunday. Which means that on the days a show is on A Saturday, I will Shadow drop a link on Twitter on the following Sunday. With a ICYMI post on Monday with a direct link. Please be patient and yes I know doing this will mess with post analytics!

Speaking of Messing with people, The European Union has issued new protection laws for anyone who purchases goods or services from online sources outside the Common Market to be given a code to confirm to that company that you are indeed buying that product.

Since Ireland does not have it own cable company (it's British!) There maybe some disconnect next month. We'll see how it goes!

On Brighter news...

A PUSH TOWARDS THE 500TH POST!

In the interim time between Rumble and Mania, other reviews such as the ice-cream taste test (ETA March!) And TAROTOBER, we will be making a fairly hard try to achieve the 500th Post of this blog. Which will be whatever PPV precedes the 499th post.

TAROTOBER

My essays into the Narrative of the Tarot, as used in The Persona and Street Fighter games continues, now as a Bi-monthly series. In the months I have no payperview reviews, I will have another Tarotber essay

• FEBRUARY-TAROTOBER PART 4: The Lovers and The Chariot
• MARCH- PART 5: Strength and The Hermit

SCHEDULE FOR BOGGERBOXOFFICE

• Today!-The Suicide Squad part 1
• Next week! The Suicide Squad part 2
• February: Badland: Road to Fury
• March: Burnt
• April: Two Night Stand

THE FINAL 4 EPISODES OF CODE LYOKO RETURN TO THE PAST NOW!

There is only one way I can show how important this show meant to me, and all those who loved this show and that is to make it as review it in a special Event....

• APRIL -MAY: 4 TICKETS FROM HEAVEN! CODE LYOKO: RETURN TO THE PAST, NOW!

Ladies and gentlemen thank you for your time. And please remember ALL REVIEWS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE!

I also hold the responsibility to cancel any review in regards to getting the booster vaccination! Please understand that hold the right to protect those I love.

Follow me on Twitter @RealEnli

PEACE!

EAMONN

AKA

ENLI

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