tvk | 03: [Video, and I apologize for him]

[Hello, Prospero! This is a very disapproving and irritated Edgeworth with a display shelf full of various polearms behind him.]

In light of the results of a certain recent expedition, the general quality of the armaments I've observed among those who favor those that aren't firearms, and the length of the case thus far, I've been forced to conclude that either your collective observational skills could be reproduced by someone wearing headphones and a blindfold or your collective problem-solving skills are on par with those of cartoon villains.

As it seems that I must do your work for you, I spent today seeking out an arms dealer. As it only took me this long to discover this "Felix's Finds" which serves as the closest thing available, I would imagine that it would take someone unused to investigation roughly a week. Given that the kidnappings began in late June and no small number of us contend with murderous beings of an improbable nature on a regular basis, that the existence of this collector's shop isn't common knowledge begs explanation -- even should that explanation prove to further undermine my faith in humanity.

I unfortunately feel it necessary to clarify that he cannot afford to be open about his efforts to cater to our needs, and that his understanding of the situation is limited at best. As such, discretion is necessary in our dealings with him.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

The sorts that could be found in this place generally are. Modern armor is considerably less so, but would take some effort to locate; most assume that only policemen and the military require such things, after all. Furthermore, I have little idea of its effectiveness against ravenous beasts and archaic forms of weaponry.

I bet it's pretty expensive, too.

If it fits our needs, it would be a worthwhile investment.

But then what do we do in the meantime while we're saving up?

Perform the necessary research so that we know what best to spend that money on and where it can be obtained, of course. Even if no form of armor were to prove practical, the money accumulated in the meantime could be spent on other things useful in combat.

I dunno, I still think leveling up is a good idea. I mean, what if I learn some healing spells?

Then they would not be of aid were you wounded or killed prior to learning them. If you absolutely cannot wait until at least some preparations are made, then enlist the aid of someone who is already capable of both healing and self-defense.

I don't know anyone like that...

Nor do I, unfortunately -- or if I do, I'm not aware of it. I've had no cause to question others about their combat capabilities until I noticed the condition of those who returned from that hasty expedition.

Edited 2011-12-31 04:15 (UTC)

Yeah, I think we bit off a little more than we could chew.

Which is precisely why cautious measures such as basic combat training, purchasing proper weaponry and armor, and -- as you've pointed out -- becoming aware of the capabilities of the various kidnappees, both mundane and Persona-enabled, should be taken before we attempt such an assault again.

Wow, this is a lot harder than I thought it would be.

Most armies train recruits for a few months before exposing them to combat situations, and additionally have formalized distribution of equipment. It should come as no surprise that we, as a group thrust into a situation out of our depths with very little support structure in place, should have to do a lot of work if we're to storm a scarcely-metaphorical castle without undue difficulty and suffering.

But most armies don't have Personas!

While your point is valid, it doesn't mean that all caution should be thrown to the wind. It is merely one factor that should be taken into account, not a complete replacement for traditional forms of preparation -- particularly given that our understanding of Personas is incomplete.

But isn't using them a lot the best way to understand them more?

To use a tool extensively may improve one's technique with it, but it will not necessarily reveal its origins nor its underlying principles. Furthermore, Personas are diverse; understanding only one will be of limited use in understanding the entire phenomenon.

That's why we all need to make friends with each other and learn about everyone's Personas! And investigate that tower more! I bet there's all kinds of secret stuff in there to discover!