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  • Locked thread
The Doomhammer
Feb 14, 2010

Weissman IS a pretty big fan of trolling people.

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Erpy
Jan 30, 2015
(insert title here)

quote:

Am I remembering correctly that Cassius is even better with as sword then he is with a staff?

Yes, word of God says his battle power took a small hit due to now wielding a staff instead of a blade, though his biggest edge, his ability to play the chessmaster game, is as sharp as ever.

Glazius posted:

So... have we got any idea at all what Ouroboros wants out of this? Besides "lol trolled lol".

As Weissmann pointed out, the enforcers themselves frequently have their own interests in the game and one of Bleublanc's goals, aside from trolling, was getting to meet Princess Klaudia. But what Ouroboros itself gets out of it is the gospel tests that have been going on. The society is testing its new gospels and refining them with each additional experiment. They're essentially trying to create a perfect gospel and their synchronisation with devices such as the holographic projector and the septium vein stimulator were part of calibration tests. What the gospels do exactly is something that's brought up later in the game.

The Lone Badger
Sep 24, 2007

Long-range holographic projectors + earthquake generator = artificial god (complete with 'smite' button).

Hwurmp
May 20, 2005

-Factory City of Zeiss-



We'll head to the dock once everyone's ready.
Given that it's the military--which, y'know, means your dad--calling, we might wanna hurry. Still, if we got any jobs left or shopping to do, we can take care of that, I bet.
Off we go!

Kloe and Tita almost just died, so let's give them a break.



Zane specializes in wuxia, tanking, and hammer pants. He easily has the best base HP and DEF out of the whole party. By default his STR is only slightly better than Estelle's, but he gets an excellent buff for serious fights--less flashy than Wild Rage, but safer by far. Zane's current crafts:

Taunt: Enrages enemies, making them focus on him. Estelle's Taunt affects a small area, but Zane's affects the entire screen.
Distend: Increases Zane's STR and DEF.
Composure: Heals one party member for 800 HP and removes ailments.
Smite: Melee attack with 50% chance of Confusion.



Zane also gets the least EP, the lowest ATS, and the worst orbment. His magic is tragic.







After a quick tune-up at the Central Factory, Olivier is set up for Time arts...



...and Zane has access to some heals and Earth Wall, which might be the only things I ever use his EP on.

Estelle and company are all set to leave, which of course means it's time for new jobs.






Martina: Do you have a reservation?
Sorry, that's not why we're here. We came from the guild.
Martina: Oh, are you bracers? Pardon me. We've been waiting for you. Can you begin the search immediately?
Yeah, no problem.
According to the request, a customer hasn't been back in a while.
So in other words, they're missing?
Martina: Yes, that's exactly the case. He's been gone for three days.
Three days, huh? That is kinda worrisome. Lately, the monsters on the roads have been pretty nasty, too.
Martina: I almost wish that was where he had gone...This particular guest...He...He's gone to the Limestone Cave.
The Limestone Cave?! The one that's, like, in the middle of the Kaldia Tunnel?
Martina: Yes, exactly. The Kaldia Limestone Cave. We tried to stop him, but...
Yeah...That's pretty bad. That's not the kind of place your average citizen should go.
I can't believe this. Why go there without an escort?
Who was this crazy guest?
Martina: He seemed to be a fairly ordinary young man. He checked in as 'Jimmy' from Ruan.
J-Jimmy from Ruan?
C-Could it be...?
You know him?
Yeah, I've done a job before for someone with that name.
I think it was a search for treasure? I wonder if he went to the Limestone Cave looking for something like that again.
We'd best away to the Limestone Cave immediately. If fortune doesn't favor this young man, we might already be too late.
Yeah, we should hurry.
...Got any other information?
Martina: I've told you everything I can. Please, take care of our guest.
We're on it.
Let's move.

This sounds pretty urgent.



-A Cat Relaxing in the Sun-





Recia: All the customers are so old, though. Would be nice if we got some eye candy once in a while...Huh...? Am I dreaming? Could he really be...?
It's been a while, my princess. Have you been a good girl?
Recia: Aaaaaaahhhh! I knew it! Lord Olivier, you're back! Heeheehee, I'm so happy! You're back, you're back!
(L-Lord Olivier...?)
Recia: Please, Milord, sing for me again? My heart goes all aflutter whenever you're playing your lute. ♥ *siiigh* Oh, Lord Olivier is so dreamy...I wish he would whisk me away to the Imperial capital!



-Wandering in the Darkness-



Soldier: The sandbags were moved, too. Talk about irresponsible! What if someone wanders in there by mistake?
Other Soldier: It's possible someone got in. Has there been any contact at the guild?



-Peace Bestowed By Twilight-





Penguins?



Penguins.

















Let me help you with that.





The raw sex appeal oozing off of the pink penguins can Confuse, but it seems they're not Zane's type of penguin.





Lily Necklaces prevent Confuse, and this quest can be hard to complete without at least one. Unfortunately I couldn't see any places in Ruan or Zeiss where you can buy them.



Whenever you enter a new area of the Limestone Cave, check to see if you can rotate the camera. The last area doesn't let you. Turn back here if you haven't found the Lily Necklace, and protect your party against Seal and Confuse as best you can before you take any steps further.




Th-That's...!



Man: Okay, I-I've managed to pull the chest up...No doubt about it. I finally found it...









Man: Ah...I guess this isn't the time to be goofing around. I'd better check the contents before some monster shows up...



Man: Who are you guys?!
Forget that! Wh-What the heck are you doing playing around in a place like this? Are you nuts? *sigh* Oblivious as always. You haven't changed a bit.
Man: Huh? You...You're...!
Hey, Jimmy. It's been a while. When did I take that job of yours back in Ruan...?
Jimmy: Oh, man! That takes me back! So, uh, what brings you here?
Your lodging put out a search request. So, we came looking for you.
Jimmy: Oh, you came all the way from Zeiss, huh? Well, sorry, but I can't go back yet. I'm about to make the discovery of the century!
Are you speaking of that chest?
Jimmy: Yeah, I managed to pull it up just a moment ago.
Pull it up? Like, from the lake?
Jimmy: Yeah, talk about a crazy hiding spot. Still, that's what I'd expect for the great pirate Schirmer's treasure.
Whaaat?! THAT'S the treasure you've been looking for?
Jimmy: Heh heh heh, no doubt about it. I've followed a long trail and many old maps to get here.
Look, I don't care whose drat treasure it is, just hurry up. If we hang around here, the monsters are gonna notice us.
Jimmy: Whoa, yeah, right. A-All right. I'm gonna do it! I'm gonna open the chest!



Jimmy: G-Give me a second. Whaaa...? What is this...?

-Silence-

:siren: *WEEEEOOOO WEEEEOOOO* :siren:

Jimmy: Wh-Whoaaa! *phew* That sure surprised me.
Uh...Anyone else hear that?
Oh, man. This is sooo a trap, isn't it?
Dunno, but I've got a bad feeling.

*AWK AWK* *AWK AWK AWK*

Looks like your bad feeling was right on the mark.
Here they come!

-Pinch!!-







Jimmy! Behind you--!







Hmph...I guess that's the new lord of this little domain.
Heads up! Here it comes!

-Obstructive Existence-







Wow, these penguins are dicks. That Sardine Bullets could have dropped Jimmy and cost me the game.

























The samba has a high chance to inflict Seal and Confuse on the whole party. I've never seen it miss before.























why do I even bother using Olivier's CP for anything



Okay, this looks nasty. Better put him away.




-Peace Bestowed By Twilight-



Jimmy: *pant* *pant* I thought I was a goner!
Well, we managed to push them back. Let's retreat before more come.
Jimmy: R-Right. O-Okay, then, I'll be quick.
...Hold up.
Leave that to us. There could be another trap.
Jimmy: Y-Yeah, good point.
Well, then, here we go.



I think we're okay, but...

quote:

Retrieved Silver Dew Orb.
All right, the dubious pirate treasure has been secured.
Wait, huh?
Jimmy: Wh-What's wrong?
There's...a scrap of paper in here. It looks like a letter.



quote:

In memory of my seventieth birthday--and my retirement from piracy--here lies my Silver Dew Orb. This gem holds the power to warn its bearer of all approaching danger. I can say my living to this day is thanks to none other than this jewel. However, I have grown old and weary of being bothered by the 'Knights' who come seeking it. And so I sink it into this lake. You who have found it, do as you please. However, as I wrote, this treasure comes with its own troubles...
The end.
Jimmy: Holy crap! L-Let me see it! Pleeease!
Okay, okay, calm down. Zeiss first, then I'll let you have it.
Though if you'd rather fight that weird monster again, we can hang around...
Jimmy: P-Pass! Going is good!
Yes, very good. Let's go, then!
Yeah, let's.



-Factory City of Zeiss-



If you'd opened the chest first, you'd likely be monster food now.
Jimmy: Wh-Whoa! Monster food...?! I-I totally regret it, so please don't scare me like that.
We're not tryin' to scare you. But, you really were saved by a coincidence this time. Understand that and make sure you learn somethin'.
Jimmy: G-Got it! Anyway, I'm going to focus on getting a job for now so I can pay for an escort next time.
S-So that's how it's gonna be...You may regret it, but you're still going into danger, huh?
Jimmy: W-Well, yeah. I gotta. Treasure hunting is a man's romance. For discoveries like this, a little danger is unavoidable.
Hm, speaking of, what happened to the discovery this time? It seems it really was pirate treasure in the end.
Ah, right, right. Anyway, I need to return the treasure to Jimmy.

quote:

Handed over the Silver Dew Orb.

Jimmy: Th-Thank you. It's like a dream come true to really find treasure.
Hmmm, still, I wonder what it really is. Whatever it is, it sounds pretty incredible, judging by the letter that was left with it.
Jimmy: Th-That's true, but...I've never seen anything like this before.
Hm, most likely an artifact. It's lost its power from the look of it, though.
Jimmy: Whaaat?! An artifact?!
Artifacts are relics from a long time ago, right? Even if it doesn't have any power, isn't it still pretty dangerous?
Mmm, possibly. You should have it examined by the proper authorities. It's a bit of a problem to have citizens possess those things.
The closest research facility would be the History Museum in the capital. If you wish, I could contact them for you.
Jimmy: P-Please do! If it's that dangerous, I'd definitely like to have it looked at.
Understood. Well, then, I will prepare everything, including your ticket to the capital.
Jimmy: Wooow, thanks! What great service.
No, it's a necessary expense. After all, you're completely broke, aren't you?
Jimmy: Whoa?! H-How did you...?
Ahaha, that's our Kilika.
But, the way things are outside right now, it's probably best for you to take her up on the offer anyway. Walking the roads is just way too scary at the moment.
Yeah, absolutely.
You can get your ticket from the receptionist at the landing port. Well, then, take care on your way to the capital.
Jimmy: Really, thanks for today...No, thinking about it, it's not just today. I owe you guys a lot from before too. Here, take this.

quote:

Received Yin-Yang quartz.

Jimmy: It's a favorite of mine. I'd like you to have it.
Are you sure?
Jimmy: It's a sign of my thanks for saving my butt so many times. Please, accept it. Hope we see each other in the capital!
Yeah, got it. Make sure you deliver that jewel to the museum.
Jimmy: Yeah, leave it to me.

Jimmy, all is forgiven.



Yin-Yang is the best quartz in the game. It prevents monsters from noticing you in the field, giving you all the time you need for pre-emptive strikes and trivializing everything that isn't a boss, guild bounty, or scripted ambush.

It also restores 2 or 3 HP per second. Whatever.




Hopefully this discovery will be some kind of clue, but...

quote:

Reported results for [Missing Guest].
Payment in mira: 5000 (+0)
Gained BP: 5 (+0)

Rank advancement to [Senior Bracer - E+ Rank].
Received Ingenuity quartz as a perk.
I'll contact Elnan in the capital from my end. Go with the Goddess' blessing. And be careful.



Ingenuity slowly regenerates the wearer's EP while traveling: 2 or 3 per second, just like Heal and HP, but it winds up being a lot more useful. Since EP levels are much lower, that rate of recovery is proportionally a great deal faster. The Ingenuity quartz also has water points, which lets anyone use Tear to turn 10 EP into 1000 HP.



Hazel: I heard you're leaving Zeiss.
Yeah, we're heading to the capital next. Seems like the Royal Army needs us for something.
Hazel: Goodness, you really are very busy. Be sure to take care of yourselves. Don't push yourself too hard just because you're young.
Haha. We'll be sure to keep that in mind.
Hazel: Well, then, take care of Tita. Tita, you don't push yourself too hard, either.
Okay!
Yeah, we will.
See you later, Hazel.
Hazel: Take care at the capital. Watch over Tita. Be careful out there.



Haven't departed yet, hm?
Yeah, we had a bit of business still.
...By the way, did something come up?
Yes, we received an investigation request from the Royal Army. It's about that projection device.
Projection device...?
That weird contraption in Ruan that the enemy used. The one that could create illusions.
Hm, yes, the one you told me about.
I think it's necessary to have a look at it if I'm to study the Gospel properly.
We were going to ask the army about it, but then they sent it to us. We were just about to take a look.
Wow. You already got an investigation report together. Seems like the army's putting a lot of effort into investigating the 'society.'
Yeah, it may seem obvious, but the army's keeping tabs on them.
I intend to put my all into puzzling out this Gospel. Well, then, take care of Tita.
Yeah, leave it to us.
Good luck, Grandpa!



Gerald: You're the party of bracers bound for Grancel, right?
Yeah, that's us.
Gerald: Kilika sent over the fare payment already. You guys ready to check in?
As usual, we should stick around and wait for the ship once we check in. You sure we're all done here in Zeiss?



It's been nice, Zeiss, but we've got to catch a plane, Zane.

Gerald: All right! I'll contact the guild and let 'em know to send the rest of your party.

quote:

Estelle's group checked in and waited for the next passenger ship.



Hwurmp fucked around with this message at 15:52 on May 8, 2016

Stabbey_the_Clown
Sep 21, 2002

Are... are you quite sure you really want to say that?
Taco Defender
All your animated GIFS keep locking up my browser for a few seconds. Can you consider cutting back on ones which are not absolutely necessary? For example, the Shadow Spear, Mating Call and Penguemissions ones could all have been done as stills.

BearDrivingTruck
Oct 15, 2011

You see the most shocking sights sometimes
I really wish that other than the Attack line and Seal, Ingenuity wasn't the only other fire-based quartz in the game.

SweaterGear
Jan 4, 2010

There's a Monopenguin! :swoon:
I just finished rereading the LP of the first chapter the other day and I super pleased to see this thread in the forums. I'm enjoying the ride so far and, if your Persona 4 LP taught me anything, I'll continue enjoying it in the future.

Stabbey_the_Clown posted:

All your animated GIFS keep locking up my browser for a few seconds. Can you consider cutting back on ones which are not absolutely necessary? For example, the Shadow Spear, Mating Call and Penguemissions ones could all have been done as stills.

Are you using Firefox? I recently had the same problem but switching to Chrome solved it.

The Doomhammer
Feb 14, 2010

It's always nice to meet one of Olivier's fans.

That's the only time you need to go to the limestone cave in this game right? I guess it wouldn't be complete without Estelle having to fight an evil giant penguin again.

Some Numbers
Sep 28, 2006

"LET'S GET DOWN TO WORK!!"

BearDrivingTruck posted:

I really wish that other than the Attack line and Seal, Ingenuity wasn't the only other fire-based quartz in the game.

To be fair, in FC the only fire Quartz were the Attack line, Seal, Confuse and Strike.

But yeah, fire really got the shaft in SC, since Confuse and Strike changed elements.

Glazius
Jul 22, 2007

Hail all those who are able,
any mouse can,
any mouse will,
but the Guard prevail.

Clapping Larry
Man, what an increasingly ludicrous series of fish-themed special attacks.

Fess up: the penguin's a secret unlockable party member, right?

Erpy
Jan 30, 2015
(insert title here)
Actually, Zane's Composure craft isn't just locked to him. He can also use it to heal and restore the status of other party members, assuming they're in his walking range...which gives the status recovery aspect of the craft more use because if it was self-targetting only, he'd be unable to cure most status ailments with it. (like seal, confuse, faint, freeze, petrify and sleep)

I've also heard that the inguinity quartz doesn't restore EP per step, but simply over time and that time keeps ticking during cutscenes, but haven't verified this yet.

Endorph
Jul 22, 2009

It's also possible that steps during cutscenes count towards the 'step' counter.

Hwurmp
May 20, 2005

Glazius posted:

Fess up: the penguin's a secret unlockable party member, right?

Only if you know the special secret code. My uncle who works at Falcom put it in for me, but I'm not allowed to show anybody.

Hwurmp
May 20, 2005

-Amber Amour-









Faults: *siiigh* Wish I could've spent more time in the hot springs...
Noticia: Magazine reporters don't get any breaks! Speedy reporting is our lifeblood! And you can bet I'll have my latest report written up the instant we hit the dock!

-Silence-



Welcome to Olivier Lenheim's lovely solo recital.
Oh, Aidios, he escaped his chair.
Kloe, remember, you have a sword and you know how to use it.
Haha. Well, I saw him playing when I stepped out onto the deck, so I came by to listen for a little while.
He really is exceptionally talented.
Mmm...Your compliments do me the greatest honor, Your Highness.
If you wish, when we arrive at the capital I could treat you to a...private concert.
Screee-eeee?
Hmm...?
Er, Sieg, yes. That did not necessarily mean anything beyond the obvious...
Ohhhhh? You meant something else by 'private concert,' Olivier?
Heh, well...if you wish for it to mean something more, my princess, it certainly could...
SCREEEEE!



I'm sorry, I'm sorry! I won't do it agaaaaain!
Haha. Good job, Sieg! You're a girl's best friend!



Haha...I'm sorry, Olivier.
That was just Sieg expressing his...love. I actually think he likes you, on the whole, Olivier.
Screee! ♥
I shall bear his peck on my cheek with pride, then!
I must admit, I did not expect your escort to be so diligent. He is as vigilant as any of the human Royal Guards.
Haha. It depends on who I'm dealing with, I think.
You really are totally indiscriminate, aren't you, Olivier...?
Look, don't try to put the moves on Kloe in the capital, okay? Julia would, like, fire you out of a cannon--into the sun--if you even think about it.
Ah, yes, that cold, dignified lady officer.
She, too, caught my eye during the coup. The sort of woman who can take on ten men...She is quite something.
Hmmmm. Should the chance present itself, I should...endear myself to her.
Um...
Hm?
What's wrong, Kloe?
It, um, might not be a good idea to joke about such things around Julia, Olivier. I remember, once, there was a party at the castle, and a man was drunk and bothering us...Julia, um, took her sword, and...his clothes...well...
Wha--
You mean...?
She, um...'defrocked' him?
*nod*
I'll t-t-take that under...consideration...

-Amber Amour-

You know, the Liberl News wrote an article about that party. Julia gained a lot of, um, admirers, from high society to the poorest commoner.
I've always felt a little sorry for the man involved, though...
Seriously? Don't you think he got what he deserved?
I would presume nothing less t-terrifying from the lady knight who defines the Royal Guard.
But know this! The flames from which my passion was kindled shall ne'er fade!
Even if I must be stripped naked before her, I shall serenade her with naught but my lute in hand!
...I so did not need that mental image. Thanks, Olivier.

-Dancing With The Wind-



Passenger: It makes my heart rejoice to see it again...but it also brings to mind that recent coup. Something like that must never happen again. I've heard not all of the ringleaders of the coup have been captured. The few left may well have fled the country by now. Good riddance, I say!



Aldan: Your lovely white frame will be MINE...in this camera!



Rutherford: I hope it goes well...



Passenger: I don't wanna sit heeeere. Let's go outside! I'll be good, I promise!
Other Passenger: I said, 'NO!' The last time you said that, you climbed the railing on the deck, didn't you? You're staying put right here, no matter what!



Crew Mem. Alex: They've got...uh, 'different' personalities for siblings, I guess...I dunno, they seem really close. Looking at them makes you smile, you know? I was an only child, so looking at that makes me a little sad. I wish I had a little brother or sister that age.



Passenger: Sure, it isn't as big as Bose Market, but their merchandise is the best in the kingdom! Aaaaah, if I had the time and mira, I'd love to stop in and shop till I drop...Edel Department Store's merchandise is really of fantastic quality. Apparently that store's been the source of several recent fashions.



What's up, Estelle? You creepin' around the ship AGAIN? Man, you just cannot stay still, can you?
Oh, c'mon, I'm not a cat in a carrier or something.
I just...yeah, I do get kind of antsy, having to sit down and wait.
I thought you flew to Le Locle, though. That's a good half-day on an airship, at least. You must've worn a rut in the deck.
Uh, well, I was asleep for both trips, actually...I was so nervous to be going that I couldn't sleep the night before, and coming back I was wiped out from that last test...
I shoulda seen that one coming...
*giggle* That's definitely an 'Estelle' thing to do.
Hmmm...Leaving the country...I'd really like to do that someday, too! Maybe I could even go visit Mom and Dad...
Oh, yeah. Tita, your mom and dad are out of the country working, right?
Yeah...They're helping to establish orbal technology in places that don't have it yet. They've been gone for two years.
Wow, that IS a long time...I hope they write you letters or something at least.
Yeah, once every month. ♪
I, um, wrote about you last time, Estelle, and in the reply...They said to give you their regards!
Aww, that's sweet of them.
So what kind of people are your parents, Tita? Is your mom like you? I bet she is.
Like me? I don't think so...
Mom's got a really...um, powerful personality, I guess.
She and Grandpa kinda end up fighting and wrestling a lot over stuff.
...Wrestling?
Oh, but they usually get along really well! Dad says their fighting is just a way they express their love.
Well, uh, okay...
So what's your dad like, then?
He's not like Mom at all. He's sorta quiet and...reliable, I guess? He was a bracer until about ten years ago.
Wait, seriously?
Real serious. I actually talked to Gramps about that, and Dan was the real deal back in his day. The professor said he had to retire and become an engineer due to an injury of some sort.
Huh, okay.
They sound great! I'd love to meet them when they get back.
Yeah! When they do, come over to play and I'll introduce you. ♪
Agate, you'll have to meet them, too!
Huh? Why would I have to meet your folks?!
Well, you get along really well with Grandpa...and I wrote a lot about you, and, and, Mom and Dad said in their reply that they really want to meet you!
Of all the...
Haha! Time to pay the piper, huh?
Um...If you don't want to, Agate, you don't have to...
Nah, it's...fine.
Look, I'll stop by and say hi to them if I'm ever in Zeiss for work, okay?
Heehee, okay! ♪
Just so long as Tita never tells her folks about being in a peeping-tom sting.
Oh, yeah, Estelle! Do you know why the wind's nice and gentle out on the deck?
Uh...Isn't it just like that?
Oh, no! At the speed we're going, the wind should be really strong! We wouldn't be able to hear each other...We'd get swept off the deck, in fact!
Wait, seriously...?
Ain't there some bit of the airship that prevents that? Think I heard about that once...
Uh-huh! It's a side effect of the 'flight field' that keeps the ship in the air.
An orbal flight engine envelops the ship in a field that counteracts gravity, you see! It also has an anti-inertial effect on anything striking the field, and that includes the particles that make up the wind!
(...Agate, are you following any of this?)
(You're kiddin', right?)
But, um, generating a flight field takes a lot of power...You need a really high-output orbal engine to create the field at all!
Okay...So that's why people always say that it's the engine that determines what an airship can do.
Ahhh, okay, so that's why everyone's made such a fuss about that new engine for the royal airship. Ain't that thing supposed to be absolutely crazy in terms of how strong it is?
Uh-huh! Grandpa showed me the spec sheet for it, and its capabilities are waaaaaaaay beyond existing engines! Grandpa and the rest of the team at the Central Factory worked really hard on it!
Haha! I hope I get to see it someday.
The last time I came to the capital, I saw the Arseille! It's really, really pretty! Heehee! I wonder if we'll see it again.
Somethin' with the army, huh? If they're callin' us out to the capital, then it's gotta be something they don't want gettin' out. We gotta keep an eye out for the society, too. We'd better keep our guard up.



Zosimov: Yiiiiikes, I need to start getting stuff ready to unload when we dock. We've got sooooo much cargo to offload in Grancel.



Captain Petrov: We're above the Tratt Plains at the moment. The weather's fantastic. Why not step out on deck and catch the view?



Crew Mem. Roger: Let's reduce altitude now before we get caught in an air current, please. Looks like there's a bit of wind coming down from above...The winds around here change at the drop of a hat, so I have to stay on the ball about it.
Roger, Roger.
Crew Mem. Quint: La-da-laaaaaa... ♪ Yes, affiiiirmative. Immeeeediately restorrring cooooooorrect altitude, ba-da-da-bummmmm. ♪ La-de-da-daaaaaaa... ♪ Da-da-da-duuuuuuuum... ♪



Crew Mem. Nora: It has a long and storied history, which dates back to before the birth of the Liberl Kingdom. According to some theories, it's linked to the ancient Zemurian civilization, but the truth of the matter is unclear. Our vessel is currently in flight above the Tratt Plains. Please enjoy a relaxing journey until our arrival in Grancel.
Jimmy: Whoooooa! So that's the fort?! If it really is a ruin, then maybe there's some hidden treasure inside that nobody knows about!



Passenger: I heard that on the day of the signing, no civilians are being allowed into the villa where the ceremony's being held. Not surprising given that it hasn't been that long since that detestable coup, but...It would've been nice to see the moment it was signed, you know?



Passenger: To be localized and happening in so many different places like that...I've been around the block a few times, but I've never seen anything like that! I know they said it was safe, but I did lose my composure for a bit. We're on an airship now, though, so we're safe.
Those penguins will never get us up here.



Passenger: It's between Norman, who's promoting tourism, and Portos, who's been promoting the harbor business...I wonder which candidate will get elected. Even if you're not a citizen of Ruan, it's still worth taking note of. Speaking of, I remember hearing about some weird ghost rumor in Ruan. I wonder what became of that. Nobody talks about it.



Um...Zane?
Ah, Estelle! What is it? Need me for something?
Oh, uh, not really. It's just...
You kinda looked like you were lost in thought.
Mmm...Yes.
Just...remembering the past a bit, is all.
With that sunglasses wolf guy, right?
Yeah. We last met six years ago. At first, it felt like longer, but...it hasn't been that long, you know?
I guess not...
So, that man was your senior at your, um, dojo, right? What kind of martial artist is he, anyway?
Well...

-In My Heart-



Simply put, he's a natural. His reflexes are perfect, and his sense for battle is keen. When I knew him, he kept himself in perfect shape, and it looks like that's still true today. And on top of that, he knows how to utilize his chi exactly. In every sense, he is a cut above the normal man.
Yeah, his moves...I've never seen anything like that. I think he might even be faster and stronger in some ways than that Lorence guy, and that's scary.
I think you might be right, yeah.
When we were students, I admired that strength of his. Envied it, even. At least I did until six years ago, when he killed our mentor and master of the dojo, Ryuga.
Wh-What?! He...He killed his own...?
Ah, sorry, I'm getting ahead of it. They both agreed to the fight, mind.
Master Ryuga had long been aware of the darkness in Walter's heart. He'd grown drunk on his own power, and hungered for still more...Master constantly rebuked him for his actions and reminded him what the proper heart of a martial artist is supposed to be...
...the 'Living Fist' of the Taito style, that seeks to perfect one's self through the medium of honorable combat.
The 'Living Fist,' huh? That has a neat ring to it.
Ultimately, though, Walter never listened. He relished the power which the most aggressive side of Taito style gave him.
The aggressive side?
Martial arts are used in combat, and so no one can deny that they can be used to hurt people as much as defend them. And while there are many who train for the latter purpose, there are also those who seek to do the former.
Those who do eventually become monsters, whose fists exist only to kill...We call this side of Taito the 'Murderer's Fist.'
The...what...?



In the end, Master Ryuga challenged Walter as he was preparing to leave the dojo to pursue that path. They fought a duel to the death over it...and Master lost.
I was the observer for that match. I could do nothing but watch.
Zane...



To think we'd meet here, now, in Liberl, though...This is the hand of She Who Dwells Above at work, mark my words.
...
Oh, sorry, Estelle. I didn't mean to chew your head off. Or, wait, was it ear...?
No, you didn't chew anything...Thanks for telling me.
But, Zane...You're...searching for Walter to get revenge, right?
Haha! No, no. Like I said, their match was fairly fought. Master knew what could happen when he challenged Walter. There's no revenge to take.
O-Oh...Yeah, that's right.
But then, why are you looking for him?
Mmm...
There's something...I want to confirm.
Something to...Huh? Now I REALLY don't get it.
Hah! It's, ah, kind of embarrassing.
Either way, I'm still too inexperienced to find out...I hope I can sharpen myself by helping you.
I see...Yeah.
Well, then, I hope you can keep up, Zane!
We'll see, Estelle. You're the one with the shorter legs!

-Dancing With The Wind-
Oh, yeah, speaking of...uh, the story, not my legs...
I think I get what's going on between you and Walter...But how does Kilika fit into all this?
Erm...
It's...not really my place to say. I'll only say this much: Kilika is--was--Master Ryuga's daughter.
Oh...
I think you can fill in the rest yourself for now, yeah? She'll probably tell you the full story someday.
Yeah...Fair enough.
Anyway! Once we get to the capital, I should show my face at the Calvardian embassy. Can't wait too long or Elsa is gonna give me hell.
Elsa...That wouldn't be a strict, harsh-looking woman with glasses, would it?
Huh, you know Elsa Cochrane?
I've only seen her briefly, really. We were at the landing port, and she was in the middle of an argument with the Imperial ambassador.
Ah. Yes, she is not what I would call a fan of Erebonia. She's quite confident and intelligent, usually, but Erebonia...and their nobility...tend to make her see red.
I can kinda understand that, I guess.

*BING BONG*

quote:

Woman's Voice: Thank you for flying with us today. We will be arriving in Grancel shortly. Please be aware that there may be turbulence when landing, so we ask that all passengers take their seats.

Hwurmp fucked around with this message at 16:21 on May 8, 2016

Spielmeister
Mar 31, 2014

Stabbey_the_Clown posted:

All your animated GIFS keep locking up my browser for a few seconds. Can you consider cutting back on ones which are not absolutely necessary? For example, the Shadow Spear, Mating Call and Penguemissions ones could all have been done as stills.

SweaterGear posted:

Are you using Firefox? I recently had the same problem but switching to Chrome solved it.

I'm glad it wasn't just me experiencing that. I wonder what the hell they did in the last update that's making this happen.

AradoBalanga
Jan 3, 2013

I like that Sieg has little tolerance for Olivier's shenanigans. :allears:

Regalingualius
Jan 7, 2012

We gazed into the eyes of madness... And all we found was horny.




It's worth noting that the pairs of party members on the flight get swapped around if you went with Schera: Olivier starts serenading to her in the passenger lounge, while Tita and Cloe have mostly the same conversation you saw with Agate.

Hwurmp
May 20, 2005



-Royal Capital of Grancel-



On her last trip to the Liberl Kingdom's seat of power, Estelle reported for duty and then hopped an airliner to Ruan.





The visit before that was more eventful, but it ended on kind of a sour note.




Guess we better check in with the guild branch first, huh?
Yeah, let's go hear from Elnan what's what.
I did notice that a certain white ship isn't in port today. The 'Arseille,' I believe it was?
Huh?



That's the royal family's personal cruiser, right? It might be out on a mission or something.



It's being fitted with the new engine Professor Russell and his colleagues have been working on.
Oh, yeah! Gustav said he'd be flying out to Leiston on the factory's airship!
Oh, I see!
So that awesome ship is being made even MORE awesome? I seriously can't wait to see that!
They're just changing the engine, so I doubt the exterior will change much...
But it'll totally be the world's fastest airship! That's for sure! ♪



I've read the reports from Ruan and Zeiss. Good work, truly. You've done well in opposing the society thus far.
I doubt the guys we've fought would agree...Both that masked man and the guy with sunglasses didn't really seem to take it, or us, seriously.
Even knowing that the society is moving is valuable, Estelle. Don't disparage yourself. Your successes should make the Royal Army trust us even further.
So, speakin' of which, what does the army want with us? Somethin' society-related?
Yes, about that...
It seems they don't want to discuss it over the phone. An army official will be coming by soon to explain the situation in person.
Something that cannot be discussed by phone, they say?
What they mean is that they do not wish to risk any unwelcome ears listening in on the call.
Wait, you can do that?!
Oh, yes. It's quite possible. Telephones are convenient, but with the right equipment, intercepting a conversation signal is not very difficult.
We use a scrambling device between branches to prevent interception of guild business. Unfortunately...
The, uh, 'scrambling' doesn't work with the army for some reason?
Yes. The army uses a different system. All calls between us are thus completely open.
Well, that's ducky.
Why can't the army just share a mixer-scrambler thingamajigger with us?
We ARE working together, but we're still an international citizen's group and they're a national defense force. As much as your father trusts us, Estelle, I don't think they can give us something so sensitive so easily.
Hang on, Elnan.
It still sounds like you've got some idea of what this is all about. Otherwise, you wouldn't've bothered calling us outta Zeiss.
Ah! Am I being that transparent?
I can only hazard a guess, really, but I believe it's very likely this has to do with the signing of the non-aggression pact.
The non-aggression pact?
I remember hearing something about that...What exactly is going on with that, anyway?
It is a treaty affecting Liberl, Erebonia, and Calvard, proposed by Grandmother. In short, it says all countries involved will attempt at all times to solve international disputes without resorting to force.
Whoa! So, like, it'll end war?!
Well...no. There's no true enforcement mechanism beyond simply being known as a treaty-breaker, so enforcing it like that would be difficult...
It should still be something of a deterrent, though, and it will hopefully promote more friendly relations between ourselves and others.
Okay, I get it.
Queen Alicia does it again! She's got a good eye for this kind of thing.
It'd be neat if that made the countries nicer to each other!
The pact is being signed in a large ceremony at the Erbe Royal Villa next weekend. Dignitaries from all three nations will be attending, and the media is paying close attention.
...Which is to say, they may as well have painted a sign on the roof of the Villa saying, 'Ouroboros, please attack us.'
Oh...Yeah, that could get really ugly...
Hm. Got our work cut out for us, then.
Guess we just wait here for the army official for now?
Correct. We do have some time before he's scheduled to arrive, so feel free to--

*RINGRINGRINGRING*

Oh, pardon me a moment.



Yes...Yes...
...
I see...Yes. That certainly is a problem.
Just a moment, please...
Is that the army on the phone?
No, it's a member of the Erbe Royal Villa staff. They seem to have a lost child from one of the tourists in their care. Unfortunately, they can't seem to actually locate her parents...
That's awful!
Do they want us to help?
Just so, Your Highness. They've asked for our aid in locating the child's parents or guardians. There's still some time before our guest from the army is due to arrive. Would you mind taking care of this?
Sure! We'd be glad to. You're in, right, Agate?
Can't say no to a kid in need. Let's head out.
Thank you.
Hello? Yes, we have a team of bracers we can dispatch immediately.
And your name, sir?...Yes...Understood. Well, then, our bracers will be over as soon as they are able. *click*



Once you arrive at the villa, inquire with him.
All right, then!
Wait a sec. 'Raymond'...Why does that ring a bell?
Wasn't he that one butler we found? You know, when we saved Kloe during the coup. He was hiding under a counter.
Right, Nial's friend!
Ah, good! If you know him, that should make things even easier.
Well, then. Good luck.

If we're dealing with a lost child, I'll take Kloe and Tita. Zane's appearance might be a little scary, and Olivier's behavior might be a little baffling.













Grancel is divided into four blocks. The Bracer Guild office resides on the south block, along with the local arms-&-guards, orbal factory, a restaurant, and the city's main gates.



Cready: Lately, I see a lot of foreigners in the store...

quote:

Seafood Hotpot

[Sit-Down/HP3500 + CP10 All]
Soup overflowing with ocean extracts. Warms the cockles.

quote:

Mocking Pie

[To-Go/HP1900/Cures Confuse]
A machine-made pie so delicate that it looks handmade.



Chaeli: We have all kinds of weapons. Please, take a look.



Everyone gets an extreme makeover this time, although Zane already had a Heavy Cestus weapon.



Gaspard: Why not have some popcorn while you're taking a break?

quote:

Mobility Popcorn

[To-Go/HP1200/MOV +2]
A popular snack so airy you'll feel lighter if you eat it.



Nonna: We might've had a coup d'etat not too long ago, but it's all back to normal now.

quote:

Sweeeeet Crepe

[To-Go/HP1300/MOV +1/SPD +10%]
A saccharine dessert brimming with cream.

quote:

Mystery Crepe

[To-Go/HP3200/Cures Seal/Mute/Confuse]
Low calorie despite the contents. Truly a mystery.
To the north sits a ritzy hotel, Grancel Castle, and a house you can barge into.



Helmuth: Apparently she's been going to the lake pretty often while I've been away at work. And, man...The gap between our abilities is only just going to keep getting bigger.



Norche: I'd been using the same rod since I started fishing, so I thought it was about time for an upgrade. Now, then, what to do with my old rod...My husband only uses new, top-class rods, you see. So I had to keep up! You...You fish, don't you?
Huh? Well, some...
(H-How did she know?)
Norche: Well, then, allow me to offer you this.

quote:

Received Bamboo Fishing Rod.
Wow! Th-Thank you.
Norche: Hmmhmm, make sure to catch plenty of fish with it! My husband was so busy with fishing and work, he didn't pay me a moment's notice. That's why I decided to take my husband down a peg by beating him at his own hobby. For the crime of having ignored his family...I intend to make him pay dearly.
Oh gracious sakes would you look at the time, so sorry to be running for my life

Grancel's east block holds the landing port, the History Museum, the Grand Arena, foreign embassies, and a department store.




Edel: Our store is ever striving to take down the Bose Market!



Lily: The Edel Department Store has everything from souvenirs to daily goods.



A new city means new news.



Terell: A person who's apparently the duke's butler comes and shops here at the store from time to time. But for some reason he always just buys donuts and comics.
Don't judge me. I mean him.



Sorbet: Though, if Lady Klaudia ate my ice cream, I'd be happy to hear that...
(...Kloe, have you had the ice cream here?)
(...*ahem* Actually, it was Grandmother's suggestion. I was really happy to get to try it.)
Miss, you're good to go. You can, in fact, proudly say you're purveyor to the royal family.
Sorbet: Huh?

quote:

Sunshine Ice

[To-Go/HP2500/STR +15%]
High-class ice cream made with sun soaked oranges.

quote:

Moonlight Ice

[To-Go/HP2500/DEF +15]
High-class ice cream using moonlight drenched apples.

quote:

Ultima Ice Cream

[To-Go/HP2200/CP20]
The ultimate ice cream, three flavors singing in harmony.
In the west block you have the Liberl News offices, Grancel Cathedral, another cafe, and the harbor.



Tourist: Haha, how very like us.
Other Tourist: Calling yourself a maiden? How very like you.



Baral: You're the bracer lady who's a friend of Nial's, right? Welcome to Baral Coffee House, known for its coffee and rice curry!

quote:

Curry of Dreams

[Sit-Down/HP2200 All]
Potent curry, ripened to perfection. Flavor bomb.

quote:

Nap Killer

[To-Go/HP1000/Cures Sleep]
Just one sip and...FEEL THE POWER OF CAFFEINE!

General Morgan has a mansion for his whole family on the upper west side as well.



Rianne: Did you come to play?
The general's granddaughter had an Intelligence Division gun to her head the last time Estelle saw her. Looks like she's none the worse. :unsmith:



Private Datten: It was closed off during the coup d'etat on orders of Colonel Richard. If you've got the time, it might be worth going and taking a look.





Grancel: You'll come for the warehouses, but you'll stay for the utility vehicles.



Phelio: Hey!! You're the people who beat me at the casino in Ruan!
Ah...
Ahahaha...Nice to see you too, I guess?
Phelio: *siiigh* Listen, please. After that, I tried making up for the money I'd lost with all kindsa gambles, but...that match with you was where my luck turned. When I realized everything I'd won had disappeared, well...
R-Really? That's kinda sad.
That's gamblin' for ya.
Phelio: Yeah, if only I'd figured it out sooner. I guess it's true of anything, but you should always know when to quit. I didn't, and I made things hard for my wife because of that. I'm gonna do all I can to make it up to her.



Sightseer: I'd really love to confess my love to my girlfriend in a place like this.



Worker: Heh, go ahead. Look around as much as you'd like.
First I want to hear you say 'orbal boat' ten times fast.



quote:

Snakehead spat out Lucky Fang x2.



-Secret Green Passage-







If you mess with the little Sharkodiles, they'll tell their big brother on you.













-Obstructive Existence-



Cronociders. They're big and tough. That's pretty much it.



Spiral Edge works, but most ailments do not.







Their headbutts have huge knockback and a chance to Faint.

















And from here, the Royal Villa is just a few steps away.


Hwurmp fucked around with this message at 22:32 on May 13, 2016

Hwurmp
May 20, 2005









Hwurmp fucked around with this message at 13:56 on May 30, 2016

Stabbey_the_Clown
Sep 21, 2002

Are... are you quite sure you really want to say that?
Taco Defender

Really Pants posted:

...Which is to say, they may as well have painted a sign on the roof of the Villa saying, 'Ouroboros, please attack us.'

I like the story in this chapter. There aren't any obvious mysterious goings on, but the good guys are smart enough to know that such a juicy target will be hard for Oroboros to resist. The threat in this chapter is known from the beginning, and instead of trying to figure out the bad guys plan, we're trying to figure out how Oroboros plans to disrupt the non-aggression pact signing and how to stop them.

It's this big ominous threat looming over the whole chapter, which creates a wonderful air of tension.

Zane, having been to the Royal Villa during the coup, has a minor bit of some special dialogue reflecting that. I did replay later with Tita, but I didn't see anything special for her.

StrifeHira
Nov 7, 2012

I'll remind you that I have a very large stick.

Stabbey_the_Clown posted:

I like the story in this chapter. There aren't any obvious mysterious goings on, but the good guys are smart enough to know that such a juicy target will be hard for Oroboros to resist. The threat in this chapter is known from the beginning, and instead of trying to figure out the bad guys plan, we're trying to figure out how Oroboros plans to disrupt the non-aggression pact signing and how to stop them.

It's this big ominous threat looming over the whole chapter, which creates a wonderful air of tension.

Yeah, this arc is good at showing that the protagonist's side is pretty proactive and competent. They're aware of the last couple times and still have fresh memory of the coup attempt, and here comes this big event that's quite clearly a potential target. Heroes are being cautious about this, and the player's expecting something to go down.

Really Pants posted:




If you mess with the little Sharkodiles, they'll tell their big brother on you.

Those things can be a real pain if you aren't careful, because they can keep adding more and more to the battle.

Erpy
Jan 30, 2015
(insert title here)
Not to mention those big brothers' attacks have a chance to inflict instant KO, if the huge damage from their bites doesn't do the trick.

Personally, I'd go with Olivier instead of Tita. Tita herself doesn't really add that much to the dialogue in the villa, but Olivier has some interesting lines. In addition to having a really funny line when Estelle gets on all fours to look under the table in the dining area, he also has a neat comeback to Duke Dunan when you meet him and most of all, he has some Erebonian lore to share afterwards that'll sound familiar to people who have played or are currently playing Trails of Cold Steel. Please consider taking him and Kloe instead of Kloe and Tita.

Regalingualius
Jan 7, 2012

We gazed into the eyes of madness... And all we found was horny.




Really, Tita in general just feels like she got the short end of the stick in my current playthrough (just starting on Chapter 5 now). Her orbment setup is really awkward at the best of times, she practically falls over from so much as a stiff breeze... And for being a glass cannon character, at least a few of the party are very shortly going to be able to totally outpace her in terms of damage AND are much better at surviving long enough to dish it out.

Even her one unique gimmick, a ranged AoE basic attack, can easily be compensated for by Schera (and maybe Agate?) using the AoE craft on a crowd of enemies with some CP-boosting gear on.

The Doomhammer
Feb 14, 2010

Yeah, I definitely find Olivier a more interesting choice in the next bit than Tita, though it's probably not worth going back if you've already screenshotted everything.

Anyway, though I was really enjoying the game up to this point, chapters 3 through 6 had me destroying my sleep schedule for a few days because I didn't want to stop playing.

Eeepies
May 29, 2013

Bocchi-chan's... dead.
We'll have to find a new guitarist.

Regalingualius posted:

Really, Tita in general just feels like she got the short end of the stick in my current playthrough (just starting on Chapter 5 now). Her orbment setup is really awkward at the best of times, she practically falls over from so much as a stiff breeze... And for being a glass cannon character, at least a few of the party are very shortly going to be able to totally outpace her in terms of damage AND are much better at surviving long enough to dish it out.

Even her one unique gimmick, a ranged AoE basic attack, can easily be compensated for by Schera (and maybe Agate?) using the AoE craft on a crowd of enemies with some CP-boosting gear on.

I took her all the way to the end, and she really was used only for her S-Craft and spamming the Max Guard earth spells and Clock ups. The S-Craft does hurt though, and does a good job of clearing all the mooks in the boss fights.

Erpy
Jan 30, 2015
(insert title here)
Not to mention she has what's arguably the best healing craft in the game later on. While it's inadequate to counter moves like Dead Emperor's Sword, 3500 HP healing in a grid-adjustable area that also heals all status ailments and status debuffs can be quite handy.

Death Priest
Jun 24, 2004

Erpy posted:

Not to mention she has what's arguably the best healing craft in the game later on. While it's inadequate to counter moves like Dead Emperor's Sword

When the counter to something is (not very spoilery but still)having more than 9000 HP or temporary invincibility, it's hard to fault the craft for not countering it.

Death Priest fucked around with this message at 02:02 on Jan 12, 2016

Hwurmp
May 20, 2005

On second thought, meeting Olivier might be an education for the little tyke.



-Royal Castle-





Seems a bit more lively this time, though.
The villa is usually open to the general public. Many people use it as a place to relax.
Such a refined setting! It speaks to my taste.
Perhaps I should wield my lute in the service of further rest and healing for everyone here.
Yeah, you'll send them into comas, maybe...
I see the point about a vacation spot, though. There's a lot of families here!
I'd bet our lost kid was with a family like that.
So let's go find this Raymond guy.
Right, let's go.



Guardsman: Please, feel free to enter.
oh well if you insist
Other Guardsman: I'd kind of like to ask, but...Just a bit ago an old man rushed in saying he heard a monster howling. Did you find anything odd by the entrance around here?
Ah, you mean that big monster, I bet.
We took care of it, so there shouldn't be any problems now.
Other Guardsman: Oh, is that right?...Now that you mention it, you seem to be bracers. That's great, I was just thinking we'd have to investigate and slay it. Thank you for your assistance. Enjoy your time at the villa.



Capital Citizen: If it'd been a monster, I would've dragged it out kicking and screaming...Then I would've slammed it into the ground with my judo throw, but...Ultimately it was too scared of me and never showed itself. Would you like me to teach you my secret judo throw? You grab their collar with all your might, and then...Ow ow owww, m-my hip!



Estelle would cheerfully cast a line into the lava flows outside the Ouroboros Grandmaster's secret lair.



quote:

Pearlglass spat out Emergency Puppet x1.





Chamberlain Raymond: The bracers will be here any minute! Where could she have gone...?
Hellooooo!
Chamberlain Raymond: Ah! Yes, yes, may I ask what you--



Haha! Hello! I guess you remember us!
Chamberlain Raymond: Hah! How could I forget! We all owe you greatly for what you did at the villa. And, wait, that's--
Is something...wrong, sir?
Chamberlain Raymond: Er, no, haha...No, I'm mistaken. You just look like someone I know, miss.
Oh, do I remind you of your girlfriend, perhaps?
Chamberlain Raymond: Aaaah! Um, not at all! Er, so, I take it you are the team Elnan said would be coming?
Yeah, that's right. Is everything okay, though? You seem kinda...troubled.
Chamberlain Raymond: It's...about that lost child, actually. She's, um, how to put this...'lost again.' She told me, 'Let's play hide and seek' and just vanished. I've been looking for her ever since!
Oh, um...crap.
Chamberlain Raymond: I'll find her soon, I swear! Please, wait in the lounge. You know where that is, right?
Well, yeah, I do, but...You look like you're having some trouble. You're sure you don't want a hand?
Chamberlain Raymond: Are you sure? I wouldn't want to impose...
Hey, we're already on the case, right? Tell us her name and what she looks like and we'll get lookin'.
Chamberlain Raymond: Thank you! She's a pre-teen girl wearing a white, frilly dress and a black hair ribbon. She never gave me her name, though.
You didn't find out her name? Seriously?
Chamberlain Raymond: She wouldn't tell me! Every time I asked she just said, 'It's a seeee-cret!' I think she came in with her family, but I couldn't find her parents or anyone who knew her...My only option was to call you, in the end.
I, uh, I see!
Hide and seek, huh? Energetic little girl you got there!
Chamberlain Raymond: Hm. Not sure I'd say 'energetic.' Precocious and whimsical is more like it. I got the distinct impression she was enjoying toying with the adults around her.
Ohoooo. A prank-loving kitten, then?
Chamberlain Raymond: Yes, exactly! Agh! Where could she have gotten off to? I'm fairly sure she hasn't left the building, but...
In other words, we must search the entire building, including the courtyard.
Heh! A perfect place for a game of kitten-and-mouse.
Chamberlain Raymond: I will wait in the lounge, then. When you find her, please bring her there.
Will do!



So, white dress, black hair ribbon.
Haha! I can't imagine she'll be hard to find in an outfit like that. I'm eager to see what kind of girl she is.
Let's get searchin'.







Hey, maybe she's IN the planter!
Oh, c'mon, she's not a drat cat.
Yeah, I guess not...



The fountain was completely fished out, 0/5 stars



Librarian Pietro: ...A girl? No, I haven't seen her.



This is sort of an actual kid-sized pot, so maybe she's in here.
Are you kidding me?
For one thing, how the hell would she squeeze through the opening?
Oh, haha, good point.





Haha...Yeah, didn't think so.
*ahem* Putting that aside...Bending over in your current outfit may not be wise, Estelle.
Huh?
How to put this delicately...Your unmentionables are now quite mentionable.



He's not wrong, Estelle. You ain't wearin' shorts anymore, so be careful, yeah?
Ummm...R-Right.



Simone: I'm not letting her get away with it! I'm sure that girl's somewhere in the villa. Pleeease find her!
Chamberlain Raymond: N-Now, now. All we can do is calm down and search carefully. That girl might have some reasons of her own for hiding.



Ricarda: The people are kind, and no matter where I go, the view is breathtaking!



IT'S WALTER! FULL ASSAULT--oh wait
Senator Walter: I've come a bit early in order to inspect the site and prepare for the signing ceremony. And what a remarkable villa this is! Indeed, it is more than sufficient for hosting the ceremony.



Curse you, Phillip! How much time does it take just to purchase a magazine and some donuts?!



Hey!
Oh...!
Y-Y-Y...
YOUUUUU!!!
Uh, what's up with this dude?
Duke Dunan...Oh, joy of joys.
Um...Hello, Uncle. Have you been well?
ARGH! Have you no SHAME, Klaudia?! And YOU, brigand! Because of you...All because of YOU...
I have been forced into this life of shame! House arrest, of all things!
Okay, I don't think it's really fair to say it's 'our' fault. You're the one who bought into Colonel Richard's plan, you know.
You should be grateful you live in a kingdom as merciful and forgiving as Liberl.
Were this Erebonia, your 'nobility' would only serve to speed you to the gallows.
Ergh...
I confess that imprisoning Her Majesty was out of line, perhaps. Richard may have suggested it, but I should have gainsaid him.
So you can actually admit you were wrong about that whole deal? That's pretty humble, coming from you!
Do not misunderstand me. I love and respect Her Majesty. As both a ruler and an aunt, she is utterly above reproach.
But you, Klaudia! But to consider naming a little girl like you as her successor is simply madness! Unacceptable insanity!
Now just a second! Kloe's smart, studious, kind, merciful...She's got all kinds of virtues that attract people to her! Where do you get off in calling her a 'little girl,' huh?
Estelle, that's enough.
I've always admitted that I'm not ready to take the throne. I suppose it's only natural my uncle finds that unpleasant.
But, Kloe...!
You always did have SOME sense, at the very least. But you, Klaudia, have always seemed 'allergic' to attending public ceremonies. I am far better known among the citizenry, while you remain a veritable ghost. You have not once publicly demonstrated that you are ready to stand above others.
...
Why, from what I understand, you hide your true identity while living as a student. And as if that weren't enough, you even waste your time at some backwater orphanage?
She should be presiding OVER the common rabble at ceremonies, not wallowing in the mud with them!
THAT is the purpose of nobility! To stand above all other men in lordship!
It's as you say, Uncle...
...
I'll admit, I don't really know much about the 'purpose' of nobility, so...You might have a point.
Wa-ha-ha! Of course I do!
But I can say this: Kloe is trying her very hardest to figure out what she wants to be, and is helping US out in the middle of her own problems.
And she sure as hell is doing a LOT more than some duke who sits around doing nothing because he's under 'house arrest'!
WHAT?! YOU DARE--?!
Estelle!
...Uncle Dunan? I am trying, as hard as I can, to find my own path as I help Estelle.
I think, by the end of it all...We will know if I have the right to become the next queen or not.
So...please. Hold your judgment until then.
What? Tch!
Rrrgh, this is absurd!
I will deal with this no further! Begone!
Trust me, I don't wanna stick around!
Though, come to think of it, I need to. I gotta ask one thing.
Has a girl in a white dress come by here?
What are you talking--
No, no little girls have come by! BEGONE!
Yeah, sure. Enjoy your donuts or whatever.
Pardon us...



He's all acting like he's the most innocent person in the world while insulting Kloe at the same time!
No, his criticism was fairly reasonable, I think. His concept of 'nobility' is perhaps outdated, but he is correct about the qualities one must possess to lead.
But, wait...
I'm not sure I agree with fame being a prerequisite for rightful inheritance.
Countless rulers in days past were unknown upon their ascent, and still they performed great works during their respective reigns. Erebonia had one such man. After the deaths of all potential heirs due to civil war, one unsung hero took the throne in their stead. That man is now hailed as the emperor who returned Erebonia to its former glory.
That was Emperor Dreichels, correct?
The very same.
My point is thus: you have nothing to worry about, Princess.
Haha. Maybe.
He still has a point about my readiness, however...
...
To tell you the truth, I'm glad we met him here. I think I've gained a new sense of what I'm lacking.
Well, I'm glad you got something positive out of it.
Anyway! Shall we find us a lost girl?
Yes, let's!





Huh, is that so?
Nena: Yes, of course on the day itself there won't just be ambassadors from the Empire and Republic...There'll also be a representative from our Liberl Kingdom present.
I didn't really get a chance to look at this place when I was here during the coup d'etat.
Hmmhmm, it's kind of nostalgic. You saved me when I was held here. It's touching to know the room from that time is being used for the signing ceremony.
Haha, yeah.
Still, though, now that I can just relax and have a good look at it, it really is a very dignified room.
Nena: Absolutely! That's why I always work extra hard when I clean it.
Ahaha, I'm not great at cleaning, but I understand how you feel. Well, good luck with it!
Nena: Yes, thank you!



quote:

There's a lovely podium here. You peek inside, but there's no one hiding inside it.
Oooh. I was so sure this was it.
Haha. I think she's a bit less predictable than that.

Now apparently if you talk to Chamberlain Raymond, or talk to him a certain number of times, you lose BP for this quest? I don't know, but obviously it's far too important to risk. Anyway, let's just double-check that Raymond has half a brain.



quote:

Estelle checked under the counter, just in case...
Hey!
Chamberlain Raymond: Hm? Something the matter?
Haha. You could say that...
Voice: Mrrrrow...Awwww, I lost...



Hey, aren't you that kid we met at Air-Letten?
Heheh! I thought it might be you, Renne.
Heehee! Hello, miss! I'm happy you remembered me!



Chamberlain Raymond: So your name is Renne, right?
That's right.
Sorry for keeping it a secret, mister.
Chamberlain Raymond: Haha. Don't worry. But, Renne, why did you run off and play hide and seek like that? I was worried!
Because I'd heard Miss Estelle was coming! I wanted to play hide and seek with her, so I worked really hard to find a nice hiding spot.
Haha, well, okay.
It's kind of incredible you knew it was us coming, though.
You said you're bracers, right? I heard some bracers would be coming.
We are, yeah, but...We're not the only bracers in the world, you know. It could've been someone else.
But I believed. I knew you'd be the ones who'd come.
And see? You did!
I...guess I can't argue against that logic.
Well, more to the point...
Where're your mom and dad, kiddo? Why are you playin' around here on your own?
...
What're you lookin' at?
That's enough out of you, mister. You have no idea how to speak to a young lady.
Oh, for...
Well, I, Lady Renne, am feeling generous today, so I'll forgive you.
Anyway, where did Papa and Mama go? I'm not so sure either.
Wait, you don't know?
Not at all. I came here with Papa and Mama to play. But after lunch, Papa gave me a real serious look and said:
'Renne, Papa has something important to do, so he and Mama have to say goodbye for now. But don't worry, once it's done, we'll come and get you. Be a good girl until Papa comes back, all right?'
They just...What the hell?
I'm already eleven, so I said, 'I'll be good, Papa.' And after that, Papa and Mama left.
You have seriously gotta be kidding me...
Chamberlain Raymond: Er...I certainly wasn't expecting something like that. What should we do? This seems to be quite a bit beyond just 'finding' her parents at this point.
Yeah, tell me about it...
Agate, you think we should?
Yeah, that's fine. It's part of the job, and we can't just leave her here.
Don't worry, Raymond. We'll take care of this girl for now.
Chamberlain Raymond: Hm?
Hey, Renne? Do you want to visit the capital's Bracer Guild with us? I bet we'll be able to find your papa and mama, easy-peasy!
Really? But Papa and Mama said they had something important to do and to wait here...
It's okay. We'll definitely find them.
Trust in Miss Estelle, okay?
Mmmmm...
Okay, then, I'll go with you. Thank you, Miss Estelle.
It's okay! Stick close by, though, Renne. I wouldn't want you to get hurt.
Chamberlain Raymond: *phew* Thank you again. Take good care of her!
Leave it to us.
Like Estelle said, back to the guildhouse.
Chamberlain Raymond: Honestly, I wasn't sure what to do. However, knowing that she's in the guild's hands sets me at ease. I leave her to you.



...
What in the name of...? Why is this child staring at me in such a manner?
Hey, Miss Estelle? Why does this odd man have such a funny hairstyle?
O-ODD MAN? FUNNY HAIRSTYLE?!
Oh, calm down, she's just a kid.
By the way, Renne...It's not just his hair that's funny--his clothes and manners are, too!
You really shouldn't use Renne as a weapon, Estelle.
Oh, okay!
WH-WHAT KIND OF LESSON IS THAAAT?!
GET OUT OF MY ROOM, AND TAKE THE BRAT WITH YOU!



Simone: There you ARE!
Heehee, it was fun playing hide and seek with you, miss maid.
I'm gonna go back to the guild. I'm gonna wait for my papa and mama to pick me up there.
Simone: Uh...Oh, is that so?...If you ever want to play hide and seek again, come by again. I'll ask Raymond and spend as much time with you as you want.
Really? Thank you, miss.
Simone: Everyone...please take care of that girl.

Hwurmp fucked around with this message at 03:40 on Jan 12, 2016

BearDrivingTruck
Oct 15, 2011

You see the most shocking sights sometimes
Yeah, it's not clear about the BP. The guide I use is really ambiguous as well.

Edvarius
Aug 23, 2013

Really Pants posted:

Oh, do I remind you of your girlfriend, perhaps?

Oh no, Olivier is starting to rub off on the princess. :stare:

I'd say this can't be good for the country if it wasn't for him actually stepping up to assuage some of her fears about her capabilities as a ruler.

ultrafilter
Aug 23, 2007

It's okay if you have any questions.


Ugh. Renne's totally going to be Weissman's right hand man. I can just feel it.

grandalt
Feb 26, 2013

I didn't fight through two wars to rule
I fought for the future of the world

And the right to have hot tea whenever I wanted
Yah, it does seem like that Renne is one of the bad guys. After all, Weissman does seem to have a fondness for taking something that appears innocent and twisting it into a superpowerful killer.

cokerpilot
Apr 23, 2010

Battle Brothers! Stop coming to meetings drunk and trying to adopt Tevery Best!

Lord General! Stop standing on the table and making up stupid operation names!

Emperor, why do I put up with these people?

ultrafilter posted:

Ugh. Renne's totally going to be Weissman's right hand man. I can just feel it.

... The narrative certainly does seem to be pointing in that direction.

Stabbey_the_Clown
Sep 21, 2002

Are... are you quite sure you really want to say that?
Taco Defender
Huh. I didn't take Olivier, and in that case, looking under the table prompts Agate to remind Estelle not to bend over like that again. Not nearly as funny as the Olivier version!

I had to give up for this quest because I could not find her. And I did look behind the counter too, but the correct spot is pretty small it seems. The guide I looked at later says that you can't talk to Raymond at all before you find Renne or you lose BP.

Keep in mind that we did see Renne with her parents.

StrifeHira
Nov 7, 2012

I'll remind you that I have a very large stick.
The entire conversation with Duke Dunan is a GREAT character moment for Kloe. I adore the scene.

Also maybe I was just lucky but I didn't lose any BP in trying to find Renne, even though I'm pretty sure I talked with him at least once before I found her. Oh well. v:shobon:v

Omobono
Feb 19, 2013

That's it! No more hiding in tomato crates! It's time to show that idiota Germany how a real nation fights!

For pasta~! CHARGE!

If simply talking to Raymond loses you BP, it's a glitch. He's the guy who you talk with if you want to surrender and go on with the game, but the surrender option is reasonably well marked.

Hilariously, that option is how I realized where Renne was: "Hold on, where can can she be in order to hear me?".

EponymousMrYar
Jan 4, 2015

The enemy of my enemy is my enemy.
I do like that conversation with the Duke. Adds to Kloe's character and while he's still an idiot at least he's a principled one.

Renne's parents are totally Enforcers though. My predictometer hsa them pegged for that at 83%.

Hwurmp
May 20, 2005



-Secret Green Passage-



We shouldn't put Renne in harm's way, but we can still teach her about important bracer skills like looting.





-Looking Up at the Sky-





Oh, my, Phillip!
How have you been?



Have you been to the villa recently?
We have, actually.
You were, um...'busy' in the capital, I take it.
Yes, I was making some purchases on the orders of His Highness the Duke.
...Did you, perchance, encounter His Highness while you were at the villa?
We 'encountered' him, all right.
We wanted to be nice and say hello. It's been some time since the, um, unpleasantness.
From your expressions, I take it he said something thoughtless to you once again. As his retainer, you have my utmost apologies.
Oh, you don't need to apologize for him, Phillip.
I have to admit, I was a little worried when I'd heard he was placed under house arrest. He seems to be taking it well, however.
It is kind of you to say so. Now, I fear I must be off. If you'll pardon me, Your Highness.



He's been taking care of Dunan since Dunan was young, right?
He's been Dunan's retainer for the past twenty years, from what Grandmother tells me. I believe he was a member of the Royal Guard before then.
Wait, really? Phillip?!
Wow, guess you really can't judge by looks.
...Huh.
You really shouldn't underestimate him. Even I can tell he's not just any old guy.
Huh? What do you mean, Renne?
Oh, um, you know! Like how he can walk with his eyes closed. I sure couldn't do that!
I think they're just narrowed, Renne, not closed...
I mean, you noticed how he opens his eyes when surprised, right?
Really? I didn't!
I wanna see, I wanna see! Maybe I can get a good look if I surprise him next time!



-Royal Capital of Grancel-



We need to talk to Elnan about Renne.
There's that, but our army contact should be showing up soon. You didn't forget about that, right?
Oh, uh...
For cryin' out...
Huh? What's wrong? You said you're gonna show me to this 'guild' place, right?
Heh, well, m'lady, please lend me your hand. I, Olivier Lenheim, shall have the honor of escorting you.
No, thank you. I'd rather Miss Estelle to show me.
My disappointments are ceaseless!
Haha! Sorry, Olivier, no luck.
C'mon, Renne. I'll show you the Bracer Guild!
Yay!



Oh!





Well, hey there, Colonel Cid!
Thought the old man might send you, Cid. You're back from Leiston Fortress, I see.
That's right. I just arrived here a little while ago on one of the patrol ships. I apologize for the wait.
No, it's okay. We actually had a little job of our own to take care of.
Hmm...? Speaking of which, would that young lady be...?
Oh, right. Yeah, she is. Some stuff went down, so we had to bring her along.
Hey, Renne? We've got some things we need to talk about with the army man. Can you go wait on the second floor?
Oh...Is this work stuff?
Yeah, I'm sorry.
Oh...I guess I don't mind. You're just like Papa. It's always work, work, work. I don't really like that very much...
Aw...
Um...Renne, right? Do you want to talk for a little while?
I wanna get to know you!
With you?
Well, okay, I guess we could.
Heehee, okay!
We'll be on the second floor, Estelle.



Hmm...Well, your report on the situation can wait for now. Let's hear out Colonel Cid first.
Sure.
Lay it on us, Cid.
Thank you. I'm in a hurry myself.
So, this is an official request from the Royal Army. There's a series of incidents we'd like you to investigate.
Incidents? Why does the way you say that make me shiver a bit?
You're aware of the non-aggression pact, yes? I'm afraid threatening letters have been delivered to all parties involved in the signing.
Someone's threatening the treaty?!
That's...That's not good at all. What did the letters say, exactly?
Please, have a look.



quote:

To all parties involved in the non-aggression pact: immediately back down from this act of deceit and false compromise. Should you not, a great disaster will be visited upon you.
What in the...?
Yeah, that's a threat, all right.
Is this the whole thing?
Yes, that's the entire thing. As you may have noticed, there is no name or any other indication of a sender. Normally, I'd simply dismiss it as a prank. However...
...However, something about the situation makes you believe it's more than a bad joke, yes?
Yes. It's the volume of letters sent, you see.
The first arrived at Leiston Fortress. Copies were then sent to the airship company, Grancel Cathedral, Hotel Roenbaum, and the Liberl News Service.
THEN copies arrived at both the Erebonian and Calvard embassies, the Erbe Royal Villa, and even Grancel Cathedral itself. Nine letters in total.
Who'd send that many letters?!
Yeah...That'd be a lot of work for a prank in poor taste. I can see why the army would start to get concerned.
I don't get it, though. The airship company? The Liberl News? The friggin' hotel and a church? They don't seem to have anything to do with the signing.
They are not totally unrelated, to be honest.
The airship company shall be sending out charter vessels to ferry the Imperial and Republican officials here. They will, of course, be staying at the Roenbaum.
Furthermore, the church--or, specifically, Archbishop Currant of the cathedral--has been asked to be an observer at the signing. And the Liberl News has been preparing a special report on the pact and signing for weeks.
So they ARE all connected, somehow. So do we have any idea who's behind it?
That could be a difficult question to answer. This is an international matter...meaning anyone from Liberl, Calvard, or Erebonia could be responsible.
Yes. The war hawks in either the Empire OR the Republic, for starters...It could even be someone from another country entirely who isn't happy to see all three countries working together.
Of course, there are plenty of suspects in Liberl as well.
And we can't forget the obvious answer: the society.
So what exactly do you want us to investigate here, Cid?
Right, then. The mission. We would like for you to investigate all the locations that have received the letters, and see if anyone has any further leads. Minus Leiston and Erbe, that is. We'll handle those. The other seven locations are yours.
So, the airship company, Grancel Cathedral, Hotel Roenbaum, the Liberl News...
...the Erebonian embassy, the Calvardian embassy, and Grancel Castle...That will involve a bit of walking.
Heh...More to the point, uniformed soldiers asking around would attract a great deal of unwanted attention. Now that you lack an Intelligence Division, it makes sense to ask the guild to help investigate such matters.
As embarrassing as the situation is, you're exactly right. Without a functional Intelligence Division, we're very limited in what we can do. However, the new general plan from the top brass is to have the guild help us with as many tasks as possible. This is simply one case of that.
Oh, really. Thanks a heap, Dad.
Yeah, that's about what I'd expect from the old man.
Haha! I must admit, it was my request to ask for you, however. I've been placed in charge of the defense of the capital region until the signing ceremony. I would like as much information as I can possibly obtain in order to prepare a proper defense. Can I ask you to take this job?
Oh, well...I DO want to help...But we're really kinda hip-deep in another case at this point.
That girl, right. Let us hear your report on that situation now.

quote:

Estelle explained the situation with Renne being abandoned at the Erbe Royal Villa.
I see...Yes, an abandoned child is a problem you cannot simply ignore. Why would anyone do such a thing...?
It's kind of freaking me out, too. I actually met her parents once, briefly. They seemed like this really thoughtful, loving couple. They adore Renne, from what I saw. I have to think something really, really serious happened to them to make them leave her...
Hm, possibly. They may have gotten entangled in something and wanted to keep their child out of it.
I do see an opportunity to kill two birds with one stone, however.
Huh?
Renne and her parents are foreigners, remember? You'll need to inquire at the hotel and the embassies regardless.
Hey, I think I know where you're going with this...
And it just so happens they got threatened. We'd want to check with the airship company, too, come to think.
I'll put out a general alert to all army posts to watch for her parents, as well. Should they pass through any of the checkpoints, we should know.
Thanks, Colonel!
Sounds like you can take the job after all.
Colonel, you may leave the investigation itself to us. I presume you'll want the final report in paper and in person, however?
Yes. We'd prefer to avoid telephones to avoid any risk of interception. You'll be able to find me at the Erbe Royal Villa beginning today, actually. I'm sorry for the extra trouble, but could I ask that you bring the final report there in person?
Sure! We'll see you at the villa once we know what's up.
I wish you luck, then.

quote:

After seeing Colonel Cid out, Estelle's team decided to split up to investigate. Estelle, Zane, Olivier, and Kloe were to head to the embassies, Grancel Castle, and the Liberl News...while Agate would investigate the cathedral, hotel, and airship company on his own.



Tita, Renne, sorry to leave you two behind.
Oh, it's okay!
We're going out shopping!
Er, what?
S-Sorry, Estelle. Renne really wants to visit the department store.
Why, that's not how I remember things, Tita.
As I recall, you were the one who said she wanted to look at all the stuffed animals.
Awww, Renne...!
Haha...Well, um...I know you're bored, Renne, but since I'm not sure when we'll find out something about your parents, I'd like for you to wait here.
...
...
Oh, c'mon, that's not fair. DOUBLE doe-eye stares?
Ah, it'll be cool. Tita's with her, so they should be fine if they're just out shopping and stuff.
...I guess so.
Okay, Tita, Renne? We'll be back by this evening, so you need to be back by then, too, okay? And the capital's a really big place, so don't get lost!
We will, and we won't! ♪
Renne, let's go!
After you.
See you, everyone. ♪



Yeah, it's really easy to become friends at that age. Man, youth. I feel all old now!
Althooough...Tita and Renne together...Why does that combination send a chill of doom down my spine?
Oh? I think they'll be fine.
Tita's kind of easy to push around, though. I get the feeling Renne might try to drag her into all kinds of stuff...
That...might be a good point...
Oh, yeah, Elnan. Did you get the names of that kid's parents?
It took a little insistent asking, but she eventually gave them.
Her father is a trader from Crossbell. Harold and Sophia Hayworth are their names.
Trader from Crossbell...Harold and Sophia Hayworth...
Okay, got it written down.
I got it, too. All right. Let's get this investigation started.
So, remember: Estelle's group will visit the embassies, Grancel Castle, and the Liberl News. Zane, Olivier, we will be counting on your aid at the embassies.
Fear not. My brilliant smile can open any door.
We'll make sure you see the ambassadors.
Your Highness, your help would be invaluable at Grancel Castle. Please introduce Estelle to whoever can best help our investigation.
Of course.
As for the Liberl News, I believe you yourself have an 'in' for that, Estelle.
Yeah! I can bug Nial about it. He kinda owes me at this point.
And that leaves the cathedral, the airship company, and the Roenbaum. Agate, good luck with those.
No prob. Shouldn't take too long.
So, let's go!



Where should we start?
Don't think it matters too much. If you want to go to the Calvardian embassy, you've got a free pass with me around. I can introduce you to Elsa whenever.
I, of course, can get us into the Erebonian embassy. They should be glad to escort us if I introduce myself at the gate.
And, of course, I rather doubt it'll be very hard for me to get us into Grancel Castle. It might be wise to simply go straight there and speak with Grandmother.
I kinda doubt the Liberl News will give us any trouble either, so...Eh, let's just pick a direction and go!

I pick: back to the guild.



A new job has come in, and on a pretty tight schedule too.




Jimmy: Apparently they're looking into whether or not it's something the museum can hold onto, so I'm having a wander while they check it out.



Better yet, how can WE help you? We're with the Bracer Guild, sir.
Museum Director: Oh, excellent! I was hoping someone would come soon. Let's waste no time getting down to business.
Yeah, sure.
So what was stolen?
Museum Director: About that...Do you notice anything off here?
Off...? This is the airship gallery, right? Hey, now that you mention it, something seems to be missing...
You're right, Estelle. There was a portrait of the Arseille on this wall, as I recall.
Now that you mention it, I DO remember something like that being here.
How could I forget? I saw the portrait myself while touring the capital.
Guess we know why you called us now. The portrait of the Arseille was stolen, wasn't it?
Museum Director: Precisely that. It was there this morning, but around noon or so, I'd noticed that it was gone. This card was on the wall in its place.



quote:

Should you seek it, then answer my challenge. The first key is in the residence of the aged general. Search the [Onlooker of Time].'
*sigh* Him. Again.
Haha...
Our rivalry burns brighter still.
Yeah, sounds like Phantom Thief Bleublanc, all right.
You guys told me about him, but I thought you were exaggerating.
Museum Director: You already know who the criminal is? Now that's what I call reassuring! I have every confidence that you'll crack this case.
We won't let you down! We'll be back before you know it.

The Morgan residence isn't too far from the Liberl News.



Heya, Chief. It's been a while.
Editor-In-Chief: What do you need today, hm? Business with Nial?
Yeah, got some questions on some guild business. Is he back from Ruan yet?
Editor-In-Chief: Yeah, he's back, but...I think he stepped outside to do some coverage.
Ah, figures. He always does seem pretty busy.
Editor-In-Chief: Well, that's our job after all. Don't know where he is, but I heard he'll be back by the evening.
Okay, got it. Thanks.
It seems we should start somewhere else.
Yes, this can probably be the last place we visit.



Katrina: Perhaps it's Cassius' influence...as shocking as that would be!



Dalia: Maybe it's my imagination, but he seems to smile more than I'm accustomed to seeing.



Rianne: I wish I coulda played with her.



In that case, is this the 'onlooker of time'?
I'd say it's likely.
We'll need to check inside.

quote:

Estelle asked and received permission from the owners of the house to investigate the clock.



quote:

Upon inspection, they found a card stuck to the back.



As we thought.
Dalia: My...!
Katrina: To think something like that was in this house!
Well, this guy isn't the type to harm people who aren't involved in his weird plans, so don't worry.
Best to close up tight at night just in case there's any more mischief, though.
Dalia: Y-Yes, of course.
Katrina: Yes, we'll be careful.
All right, shall we continue?
Katrina: To think someone like that could sneak into our house...Anyway, I'm just glad Rianne is safe.
Rianne: Hey, hey. What kind of person is a 'phantom thief'? I really wanna meet one one day.
Dalia: I'll make sure everything's closed up tightly at night! Not that I'd ever let someone suspicious into this mansion again...
'Again?'



Dick: One way or another, it doesn't sound very yummy.
Troy: I'd rather it was something tasty, not medicine.
Raleigh: I'm a little embarrassed, you guys.



This white falcon symbol seems suspect to me.
This bird IS the symbol of Liberl, so it would stand out.
Let's have a look.

quote:

There is a card stuck to the base of the iron fence.



All right, we got it.
But what does the 'blue knight' mean? Is he talking about the Royal Guard?
They do certainly wear blue uniforms...
Mmm, I think not. It says 'the foreign manse,' so I don't think the Royal Guard makes sense.
More than anything else it wouldn't be beautiful, so we should try something else.
Is that right...
(Well, it is coming from someone similar, so I guess maybe I should listen to the warning here...)

If we're looking for some foreign mans, we should start at one of the embassies. We have some other business around the east side, too, so we'll continue this next time.

Hwurmp fucked around with this message at 21:34 on Mar 19, 2016

The Doomhammer
Feb 14, 2010

Ah good, Estelle remembered Cid's rank this time.

Also, Blueblaaaaanc! I like that the game makes sure to highlight the Estelle gets permission from the homeowners before rummaging through their clock.

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Stabbey_the_Clown
Sep 21, 2002

Are... are you quite sure you really want to say that?
Taco Defender
You're limited to the south block of Grancel, but if you enter all the stores before returning to the guild, Renne has some lines. I was impressed by that attention to detail.


The Doomhammer posted:

Ah good, Estelle remembered Cid's rank this time.

Also, Blueblaaaaanc! I like that the game makes sure to highlight the Estelle gets permission from the homeowners before rummaging through their clock.

Yeah, the game does try to remind you that the Bracer Guild is not some loose collection of adventurers which lets its members wander into everyone's houses and break their pots looking for valuables, but rather that they're supposed to be like Liberl's police force and as such needs permission before meddling with other people's property.

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