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Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Spread Your Wings and Fly. Let's Play Atelier Escha & Logy



A little introduction

2013 / 2014's Atelier Escha & Logy: Alchemists of the Dusk Sky is the fifth Atelier game to be released on the PS3, but most certainly not the last (with the sequel, the third game in the Dusk Trilogy, Atelier Shallie: Alchemists of the Dusk Sea, released a little over a month ago in Japan). This title is a sequel to Atelier Ayesha, taking place a few years later, but in a totally different part of the world. In this world, humanity finds itself on the edge of another civilization-ending catastrophe, another Dusk. Indeed, the names of the title characters are taken directly from a branch of theology called Eschatology, which concerns itself with the end of ages, eras, and / or histories.

But this game isn't really about that. It's the personal story of Escha Malier and Logix Ficsario as they fulfill their different, but eminently related, lifetime goals. Although two characters share the spotlight in this game, no matter what, this game's plot is their journey together.

LP Structure

Although I liked writing as Ayesha in my Ayesha thread, I eventually came to feel I didn't go far enough with that thread's main theme. As such, I'm going all the way with this game. I won't deliver any commentary as myself, instead choosing to speak through the words I invent for Escha and Logy. Italics after Escha and Logy's portraits indicate dialogue I made up, not in the game but wedded to it. As with my previous Atelier threads, I'll be showing off all the substantive DLC (additional characters and dungeons), as well as everything in the main story.

But, I should establish something before we begin. Before this game begins, you can choose either Escha or Logy for the main protagonist. Whoever you choose influences the game in a few important ways. The starring character will have more scenes than the character not chosen, you'll hear their thoughts in cutscenes, and they'll appear on-screen in the field and in town. While neither the plot nor gameplay change considerably between characters, there's only so much you can see in the game playing as the character you do end up playing as. This also includes endings that are exclusive to each character. For the purposes of this LP, I'll be doing two playthroughs: one as Logy, and one as Escha. For the LP, I'll be integrating the two playthroughs as much as I can to give you the whole game in one package.

As such, I won't show every scene for both characters in this LP. Such a venture would feel bloated to me, and it's just not what I want to do with this thread. The primary idea for this thread is to integrate the storylines of both characters into one cohesive whole.

An additional note

Some of you may have heard that this game had an anime that aired earlier this year, the first Atelier game to get an anime adaptation (for a series that's been going on for like 20 years, and is unspeakably anime in almost every way, that's pretty surprising). It's actually not bad, in spite of its limited budget, and an enjoyable watch if you ask me. As an adaptation, instead of a straight retread of the game it's based on, the anime's plot takes its considerable liberties with the game's story and tells something quite a bit different from the game. There are a lot of minor and big differences between the anime and game (such as Escha knowing two characters at the start of the game, but meets for the first time early on in the anime on-screen), but nothing too earthshaking.

By all means, if you want to see the plot develop in a different way, give the anime a watch if that's your thing.

Spoiler Policy

Same as it ever was for my threads. No talking about stuff I haven't talked about unless in spoiler tags.






Updates:

Part I: The Alchemic Boy and Girl
Part II: The Enterprising Lad and Lass
Part III: The Pint-Sized Merchant and Herbalist
Part IV: The Lonely Road and Village
Part V: The Adventurous Mage and Swordsman
Bonus Update 1

Part VI: The Deserted Plains and Ruins
Part VII: The Evergreen Mountain and Atelier
Part VIII: The Sweltering Path and Desert
Part IX: The Thirsty People and Settlement
Part X: The Sorrowful Memory and Body
Bonus Update 2

Part XI: The Passionate Gofer and Team
Part XII: The Ambitious Project and Plan
Part XIII: The Abyssal Depths and Graveyard
Part XIV: The Hotblooded Manager and Bartender
Part XV: The Shining Swords and Staves
Bonus Update 3

Part XVI: The Blazing Wasteland and Mountains
Part XVII: The Supportive Friend and Confidant
Part XVIII: The Overeager Mechanic and Engineer
Part XIX: The Courageous Pirate and Butler
Part XX: The Fateful Materials and Syntheses
Bonus Update 4

Part XXI: The Mysterious Lab and Research
Part XXII: The Soaring Hopes and Dreams
Part XXIII: The Enigmatic Place and Voice
Part XXIV: The Incompetent Decision and Command
Part XXV: The Crimson Bow and Arrow
Bonus Update 5

Part XXVI: The Enduring Promise and Friendship
Part XXVII: The Distant Reaches and Sunset
Part XXVIII: The Prescient Uncle and Troublemaker
Part XXIX: The Dangerous Expeditions and Adventures
Part XXX: The Triumphant Hero and Heroine
Bonus Update 6

Part XXXI: The Grateful Traveler and Medic
Part XXXII: The Last Stories and Tales
Part XXXIII: The Final Decision and Choice
Bonus Update 7





Endings:

Part XXXIV: The Great Chances and Opportunities - To Each Their Own Journey
Part XXXV: The Great Chances and Opportunities - Busybodies
Part XXXVI: The Great Chances and Opportunities - There Were Just the Two of Us
Part XXXVII: The Great Chances and Opportunities - Great Expectations
Part XXXVIII: The Great Chances and Opportunities - Tea Time
Part XXXIX: The Great Chances and Opportunities - The Wild Blue Yonder
Part XL: The Great Chances and Opportunities - Reyfer Luckberry and The Last Crusade
Part XLI: The Great Chances and Opportunities - The Sky is the Limit
Part XLII: The Great Chances and Opportunities - Farewell is for Tomorrow's Sake

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 11:40 on Jan 1, 2015

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Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Mechanics Post

This is going to be a short, non-update update on how the mechanics of the game works behind the scenes, just so that everyone knows how the game is actually played without having to play the game. I understand one key point of an LP is to explain the game's mechanics and how it works, but once you have a theme, you have to stick to it. Anyhow, let's begin.

Job Requests



Solle is the only person in the game you can accept requests from, much like the job system in Rorona and Meruru (Totori and Ayesha being exceptions). Every 10-20 days or so, Solle will update his list, and you can accept more requests. Unlike the rest of the PS3 Ateliers I've covered, there's no penalty whatsoever for failing to complete a request. Solle just gives you a verbal dressing down, and you can move on. Requests are good from the time you accept them until the start of a new assignment.

The reason you want to do jobs is twofold: every request gives you a certain point value to leveling up R&D, and most important, candy to fuel the homunculi production lines. So, there's no real need to go out of your way to fulfill Solle's requests most of the time, and the batch of auto-generated requests you've already fulfilled just by having stuff in your Container is usually more than enough to set you on your way.

Leveling up R&D adds lines you can put items in to take on adventures. Escha and Logy both start with one line in their backpack or whatever they're carrying items in, and can add up to five more lines I think. Each line has five slots, and no item in the game can go over five spaces. If you're not like super hardcore, don't even bother leveling up R&D all the way. If you complete all the main assignment requests (the 9 main ones and all the extra ones), you'll level up R&D to the second-to-last level, but you have to do a metric ton of requests to get R&D all the way. As far as I know, there's basically no point to doing that.

Anyway, speaking of the homunculi...

Homunculus Requests



Once Solle gives you access to the homunculi at the start of Assignment 4 (investigate the Abandoned River), you can start using all that candy you've been getting from jobs and putting them towards making copies of anything in your Container (your Container has limitless capacity, just so you know).

Anyway, Melting Jewels and Sweet Stumps are by far the most common two candies you'll get. However, to get the homunculi to do jobs for you in one of the five categories (Ingredient, Attack, Heal, Support, Synthesis), you'll need the appropriate candy, which is as follows:

Ingredients - Melting Jewels

Attack - Dried Taro Chips

Heal - Cloud Financier

Support - Preserved Biscuit

Synthesis - Sweet Stump

So, if you need an item in a particular category, focus on requests from Solle that will give you that particular candy. That's about all there is to that. Homunculi cannot duplicate Search items, like the Dowsing Rod, weapons, armor, or accessories.



This is the screen for ordering jobs. You can tell the homunculi to make up to 9 copies of a single item on a single order, but you have to pay more candy to make more, obviously (1-1 relationship there). As long as you have open order slots (starts with 3, you can upgrade it to 5 and 10 via R&D experiment books bought from Marion) you can put in as many orders for one item you want. The homunculi take longer to acquire / make copies of rarer items.



One final note about the homunculi is that you can expedite any order by paying them more candy, up to and including giving the homunculi enough candy to somehow instantly finish the order. Best not to think about how that works too hard.

Alchemy



I already went over the most fundamental of alchemy mechanics in a regular update, and have done supplements occasionally, but here's how the system works in simple terms. Each material / item in the game has a specific element or elements associated with it. In this screenshot, for example, the Golden Yarn has one point of Water and Wind. There are four elements: Fire, Water, Wind, and Earth, and you can stock up to five of each point. Any points added after five are completely wasted.

Additionally, sometimes a item can have several of one element or another. The Eagle Feather has 3 Wind Elements, for example, and the Golden Apple has three of each. The Dunkelheit, the best ingredient in the game, has a whopping five of each element. You can see exactly what each item will add in the little black box underneath each item.

The average of all three items will determine was the Effect of the item is (it's directly underneath the picture of the item). The Effect is basically how well it does the stated function. It's mostly closely related to "Quality" from the previous games, but the Effect is not nearly as important as the "Effects" of the tem, which is determined by the four gauges underneath the Effect bar.

By adding enough to a specific one of the four elements, you can unlock effects for the final item, such as making a bomb slow enemy speed or having an item regenerate more HP, etc, etc, etc. You can check out what any one effect does by pushing the select button and highlighting the effect you want to know more about. However, sometimes increasing an element will make an effect go AWAY. This is mostly for items that consume a large amount of MP if you use them. Higher elements can lessen the effect of the MP subtraction or eliminate it completely. While higher values are not necessarily better, this is true for about 95% of effects in this game. If you haven't seen the effect before, it'll be "???" on the property preview screen you can check out by pressing R1 at any time.

Finally, let's go back to making the item. The reason you want element points is to unlock alchemy skills. Alchemy skills include all sorts of things, like increasing the Effect of the item, making more of the item (mostly related to items that don't have a use count), doubling the number value for the item's elements (so in this example, I can have the Golden Apple add 30 to each element instead of 15), or allow you to use an item up to three different times (if you have the skill Perfect Division, which consumes 4 Wind Points, which you get at alchemy level 33). You can only use a skill if you have enough corresponding element points. A key point is you can only use each alchemy skill ONCE in a synthesis.

The Cost Points (CP) system returns from Ayesha. Your CP is determined by some experiments purchased from Marion's R&D "store" (which happens to be the main point of money aside from buying recipe books), but mostly determined by Escha's alchemy level x2. Her alchemy level goes up to 50. She and Logy share alchemy experience, and you can certainly level up as Logy. If you run out of CP, you still have to add the ingredients, but you won't get any element points from the materials.



Once you're happy with a synthesis, you can continue on to make the item. The Properties you can attach to an item are determined by the items you threw into the synthesis, as well as making sure you don't go over the total Property Points (PP) you have available. If you ever see a Property +5, PP Expansion or whatever, those traits are automatically factored into the synthesis, and are added onto whatever base PP value you already have. You can increase the number of PP available for syntheses in a particular category by buying books from R&D. There's a bomb category, food category, accessory category, on and on. Simple idea, hopefully.

Also, much like the Atelier PS3s after Rorona, you can only put certain traits on certain items. So, in this screenshot, Ability Power can only be put on accessories (as do most stat increasing properties).

Battles



Battles are probably the single most-changed aspect of this game after Ayesha. Your party can be up to six characters at once, and you have to combine your attacks to defeat the enemy. There are a number of changes. The top right is where we start, where the thing that bears most explanation is the Rate. Rate is basically a multiplier added to an attack that increases the damage done normally. So, let's say Linca begins at attack with Rate at 105%. That attack, all things being equal to an attack at Rate 141%, will do less damage.

Support numbers are for attacking and defending. You can attack with a support gauge that is at least at level 1 (with a maximum level of 9), and defend another character with a gauge that's at least 50% full. Once you gain six party members, you unlock special attacks once the Rate goes over 200%. The 200% needs to be reached BEFORE the sixth party member attacks. If you have reached thet condition, the words "Special Support" will flash on the screen, and you'll get to activate a special attack from the party member launching the final attack. For most (everyone except Logy and Threia), this is just a simple damaging attack, but for Logy's Thunder Fall, it'll frequently give Logy absolute priority in the turn order. Very handy. Threia's special support hits the enemy with every debuff, which makes it perfect for follow-up attacks. Every attack (including support attacks) will increase the gauge, but attacks that hit an enemy from the side or from behind will make it increase more. A Slag Essence with the trait Slag Wave on it will add a whopping three points to the gauge.

Super Attacks are available once a character hits level 30. In typical Atelier fashion, everyone except the main characters get one. For every attacking and defending action, that number builds up (for attacks, strikes that hit more than one target will make it increase faster). Once it reaches 100%, you can activate the Super Move for no cost, other than resetting the counter. You cannot follow-up Super Attacks with support skills.

Getting KO'd works a little differently in this game. When a character is KO'd, if they're not revived before they get another turn, a character in the back line will rush in to replace them. From then, you can revive the fallen character, as long as you have the appropriate item (the first KO recovery item you'll probably get is the Cup of Life, which you can use to target the back line if you start to use it but press L1 to target the back line). All six characters at the front of the queue in your party can fight in a battle, if you switch out active characters with back line ones. This system is completely new to this game in the Atelier series. As such, when a character joins, they're in your party for the rest of the game, unlike the recruiting system in the previous four games.

Friendship levels



One of the quirkier aspects of this game is that each character in the game has a certain friendship level that's based on a simple numbering system, but as far as anyone can tell this value is completely hidden in-game. Because this game has character endings, you need to increase character affections to get more scenes with the character, and eventually, the choice to get that character's ending.

Basically, here's how it works. Characters in your active party (the three characters who are on the field at the start of the fight) gain the most friendship points. Characters in the back line get a little less, and characters in reserve get the absolute least. If you keep a character in reserve the entire game, you probably won't see all their events. As another note, your fellow alchemist (Logy for Escha, and Escha for Logy), doesn't work the same way, so as far as friendship points go, having the non-player alchemist in reserve is the best way, but that character's ability to use items is incredibly handy. Essentially, you'll be fine as long as you switch up your party every now and then.

You'll know when you've seen all of a character's events if you see a CG starring that character. Sometimes (like with Linca) all you have to do is see a number of events, but other characters might be a bit more elaborate. Awin is definitely the most elaborate to see all his events, because he unlocks a completely new area of the game on his character path.

You can change your front line, back line, and reserve at any point in town or in the field, but your player character is locked into the front line (as indicated by the padlock next to Escha).


That's basically all the fundamental mechanics of the game. If there's anything else you'd like to know, feel free to ask in the thread, and I'll discuss it as best I can.

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 17:41 on Nov 11, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Part I: The Alchemic Boy and Girl


Atelier Escha opening

Music: Milk-iro no Touge





Music: Autumn Collapse -Autumn Collapse-









Escha intro

Music: Distant Memories


Logy intro

Music: Promise -Piano Version-






















First day on the job

Music: Tails Numbers One and Two

Stop worrying! I was super-careful when I was packing.

You push yourself too hard sometimes.

That's not true! I'll be fine! Well, then, I'm off!

I'm just concerned. I mean... You becoming a government official is just...





Oh no, look at the time! I can't be late on my first day!



I was born and raised on an apple orchard here in Colseit, a small outpost town. My skills are...alchemy, which my mother taught me when I was really young. I'm only a beginner, though. Still, now I'm the only person in town who can do alchemy at all... That's why I'm helping the town government in order to earn a little money.



I still have a lot to learn, but I'm gonna do my best for this town!

Oh, there you are, Escha!


Beginning the job

Music: Spicy Sugar

This is Miss Marion, who will be my boss starting today. She's really hardworking. I've worked for the Colseit government for a few months, but every time I've seen her, she's always talking about her work, or her office is buried in paperwork. She's incredibly dedicated, though, and always gets the job done. I really admire her.

The most interesting story I've heard about her was that she recently finished up an assignment where she was responsible for investigating ruins faaaaarrrr to the east. She doesn't talk about that much, though.
Miss Marion! I hope I'll be able to live up to your expectations...

Haha, don't worry. Just keep doing what you've been doing for us.

*Ahem* Would you mind letting me do the speaking? We don't want the rules of order to break down out here.



This is Mr. Grumman. He's Miss Marion's boss, and the man who oversees her work, as well as everyone's work in the R&D Division. Although he seems really strict, he's really easy to talk to. O-Oh! S-Sorry, Branch Manager Grumman...

Now, now, there's no need to be TOO formal. You can keep calling me Colland. Or "Manager", if you need to.

Y-Yes, thank you... Manager!

Now, starting today, you'll be an official member of the Frontier Special Investigation Bureau. As you're aware, we are quite short-handed. Since you already know how we work, it'll be great having you here.

I see... Well, I'm not sure if I've been all that helpful in the past, but...

Don't be so modest. We brought you on board precisely because we feel you are necessary. But, unlike before, you will have much more responsibility. I hope you're up to the task. But, unlike before, you will have much more responsibility. I hope you're up to the task. That said, now that you're an official for Colseit, we need you to put forth all your efforts for the town's sake.

O-Of course!

Good. We're not too strict about divisions and assignments, so we'll end this meeting here. Marion?

Understood. Shall we go, Escha? I'm sure you already know where R&D is, but I'll show you just in case.

Yes! W-Well then, Mr. Manager... If you'll excuse me.



Hm. Well, hopefully this will solve our staffing problems at R&D. I'll leave the rest to Marion. Still... Two alchemists.









A new setting

Music: Look Up at the Sky

...Finally, I'm here. I knew I was in for a long trip, it was farther than I expected. So these are Colseit's balloon docks... According to the materials I got from Central, Colseit has always been considered a remote frontier town, established mainly for exploring and researching the ruins and geography nearby than a place for people to live. I'm surprised a town this small has this much room in its balloon docks, but it's also true that I've lived in Central all my life. I expect life will be a lot different here.

You must've come a long ways. Do you know where to find the local branch? You'll find it near the town square. I'm supposed to take you there myself, but something came up. Would you mind finding your own way?

I've read the file. I should be fine.

I'm really sorry. If you'll excuse me!

...At a new post already, huh? Well, at least I should be glad I made it here the first day of my assignment. I haven't even seen my lodgings yet, but... I suppose I should get to the Branch ASAP.



People usually call me "Logy" and I think I've grown to like that name. I had a job as an alchemist in a far-away city but, due to circumstances, I had to leave. Now I'm here in Colseit because I was told they're in need of alchemists. I decided to come here on my own. I hope I can get along in this foreign town...If worse comes to worst, I suppose things will work themselves out. I need to get a handle on the work here.


Headed to work

Thank you for coming such a long way. I'm the Chief of the Frontier Special Investigation Bureau here in Colseit.

I've heard Central has a number of these kinds of branches throughout the world, but this is the first time I've seen one of them in-person. This town, though... It's larger than I expected. All the material I got from Central said that this was a barely-functioning town on the edge of the known world, but I guess people can live anywhere. The name's Logix Ficsario. I look forward to working with you.

Mm. I've been briefed on your history. Looks like you've been through a lot, for such a young age.

...It's of little concern to me. I guess there's no use trying to hide what I've done from an official authorized by Central to manage this area. One day, maybe I'll get a chance to tell you about it...

Well, I'm sure you already know, but we're on the edge of uninhabited land. It's quite far from where you're from. On top of that, we're short-staffed and short-supplied. The accomdations may not exactly be up to par, either. Of course, I'll do what I can to help with that, but I doubt it'll ever come close to where you used to live.

Please, don't worry. Thank you very much for your consideration. There's no helping it, since Central usually spends what money they have on their own projects. I certainly wouldn't expect a town this remote to have the luxuries of home, but I can get used to this.

Good answer. now, if there's anything you need, don't hesitate to ask. Starting today, you work for the town government of Colseit. I hope you dedicate your efforts to improving it.

Much appreciated. I will be in your care.

Well, now that I've said my piece, you're officially on board. I'll have you sent over to your R&D division. There's someone waiting for you in the hallway. It should be easy to find in any case.

Understood. If you'll excuse me.



Still... I don't have any idea what I'll be doing. I hope I can live up to their expectations. ...No. I can't let myself get caught up in those thoughts. I have to do whatever I can here. The most important thing is to make a lasting first impression... All right. I hear some talking on the other side...two girls, it sounds like. I hope they haven't discussed anything important yet...


Getting to know the boss

Excuse me. Is this the R&D Division?

Oh, there you are! We were waiting for you. I'm the research lead around here, Marion Quinn. It's a pleasure to meet you.

Um, Marion... Who's this?

Like I was saying, he's the other new member joining the R&D team. Now, why don't you introduce yourself, Escha?

H-Huuuuh!? U-Um, I'm... Escha Malier!

She seems...odd, but this is the first I've met her. More importantly, where did she get that outfit? I'll ask her about it later. My name is Logix Fiscario. I'm still not entirely sure how you do things here, so I hope you'll show me around.

Um, I look forward to working with you, Mr. Logix!

...As do I.

Hahaha. Oh, you kids... That was a stiff introduction! Relax a little. You'll be working together a lot!

Y-Yes... I suppose you're right. I'll do my best. They're usually sticklers for protocol in Central, so I guess I shouldn't expect the same thing outside the city. Hopefully Marion didn't get the wrong idea of me from that.

S-Sorry... Clone always told me to be polite meeting strangers, and I'm also in front of Marion. I should get comfortable working with Logy really soon.

By the way, Ma'am, where is the rest of the team?

There's technically one more member, but because of a mission, I'm afraid we're all we have today.

...Is that normal? This seems rather, um...small for a team.

It is quite small. In fact, we shouldn't even be operating, considering how short-handed we are.

Now that you mention it... When I helped you out before, you didn't have any members, either. Why is that?

Truth is, R&D's always been under-staffed, and unable to operate. And that led to poor marks from above. When I was put in charge the entire department was all but disbanded.

So, then, transferring you here really didn't solve any problems, did it?

Absolutely not! That father of mine... "I'll give you a promotion" my foot!



Ms. Marion can get scary sometimes, but when it comes to work, she always seems stressed. I wonder if she ever relaxes...

...Sounds like you've been through quite a bit.

But all that ends today! Now I have two brilliant underlings. ...And both of you are alchemists! Now nobody can tell me my R&D's department's just a bunch of dropouts.

You mean you're an alchemist, too, Logix? Wh-What a coincidence...! There's so much about alchemy that I never learned. It would be amazing if you could teach me! Alchemy isn't a lost art, but there are only a handful of people who really know how to do it. I haven't been able to learn much until now, but I can do basic alchemy. I wonder what Mr. Logix knows.

I...see... Well, I'll do my best, but I'm not sure that I know enough to teach others, either. Still, it's uncommon to hire on two alchemists at the same time...

I know, right? That's what I asked for on the application, but I never expected my request to come through...

Hmm...maybe they wanted to get rid of me...

I-I see... So that's what happened.

At any rate, I'm gonna put the both of you right to work! You're gonna help me raise our ratings and make people realize that we're the best our Division has to offer.

I'll do my best! (Hmm... So I have to work with a boy now? He looks really capable, but I'm a little nervous...)

Understood. (Hmm... So I have to work with her? She looks really honest and diligent. Hopefully things will go smoothly.)

Hello! I've returned.



Music: The Pen and the Sword, Part 2

Oh, welcome back, Linca. This is Ms. Linca, Marion's friend and assistant. I don't see her in town much, but that's because she usually goes out and fights the monsters who roam around town to make things safer for everyone. She can be hard to understand sometimes, but there's no doubt about her fighting skills, and Marion really trusts her. They have a great relationship.

Well, isn't this perfect timing... You remember Escha, right, Linca? Let me introduce you to Logy. He's one of the alchemists joining us today.

I've heard about you...

This is Linca. I suppose she would be your senior here.

Oh, she's the one you said was out on a mission?

Yes. She has a lot of assignments to keep the monsters at bay. In fact, your next deployment's been decided. She might be a little rough around the edges, but she knows how to swing a sword. Feel free to ask her for help.

It's good to meet you, Escha, Logy. Let's do our best, yeah?

U-Umm... It's nice to meet you, as well... Linca.

All right, well... Time for your first job. But before that! Logy, you don't really know much about Colseit, right?

Only what was in the file... I tried to find out as much as I could.

Well, Escha grew up here, so she knows all about the town. If you're ever confused or lost, go and ask her.

Got it! I-I'll do my best!



The windmill? Now that you mention it, I heard there were some problems with it...

I've already sent someone from Maintenance to figure out what's wrong. But, I'd like the two of you to find out what's going on down there. Show Logy around town while you're at it.

Show him around... Y-Yes, I understand! I'll be fine!

Thank you very much, Ma'am, for your consideration.

Don't mention it. You two'd better get to know each other, because you're gonna be doing a lot of work together! If you ever have any questions, come find me or Linca.

Huh!?

What do you mean, "Huh!?"!? It's our job as seniors to help teach the newcomers.

S-Sorry... But with all the missions outside, I really don't know the town that well, myself...

She lives in town and doesn't know it that well? Is this going to be alright...?

Oh my goodness. Well, you make sure you're able to answer any questions these two might have. You got it?

U-Understood...

Hahahaha. Well then, we'll be counting on you, Linca.

I will do my best.

(You two never change, do you...? But Linca does go out a lot, and I'd love to hear more of her stories...) But first, I need to show Logy around town. He's going to be living here for a while, after all!


Around town

Music: Because the Sky is Red

Sure! But what should I show you first... U-Um, Mr. Logix...?

Ah... Heh. You can just call me "Logy". I'm not used to being addressed so...formally.

Okay, L-Logy. Is there anything you would like to see?

Hmm, well... I saw a large ranch on my way here. I was curious what that was...

Oh, that's our apple orchard. My parents' house is actually an orchard, too! Colseit has a lot of orchards. Our town specializes in producing apples, you know? And they're delicious!

I see. Perhaps I should try one later. Hm...? If your parents run an orchard, why did you become a government worker? Would you inherit in the farm?

I've thought about that, too, but... Since I can use alchemy, I thought I should be putting my skills to use. And, I want to use my alchemy to help as many people as I can...and my father actually agreed!

I...see. That's a nice story.

Y-Yes... Ahaha, I'm sorry. I'm just a little nervous right now.

...Hahaha, sorry, so am I. I'm just not used to situations like this. How about we keep on going? Show me the way, Escha.

You got it! Let's head over to one of the apple orchards. They're right on the outskirts of town.



By the way, Escha... What is that you're wearing? I've heard traditional alchemists typically wear strange outfits, but that reminds me of...

A witch, right?

Well, yeah...

Hehe, it should. I got this from a friend of mine. Actually, she also lives in town, but I think she's out on business right now. I hope you can meet her soon. She's really interesting.

I...see. Escha sure has some unusual friends...


Big man around town



Um, I'm sure you already know this by now, but let me explain it to you one more time... This city is called Colseit, and it's built on top of ancient ruins.

So the city acts as a hub for all kinds of research.

Yeah. It used to be a small farming village, but once the government got involved, it grew and grew.

Right. It's large for a city out on the frontier. The streets are bustling, too.

We're in the town's square right now. You can see all the billboards and shops! There's a lot of businesses around the airship port... That's why this is the center of town.

I see... So it's not just the hub for research, but also a growing area for business. I've heard of towns supported by the airship trade, but it's interesting to see it in person. Central City has been investing a lot of time and money into airship travel, and it's allowed numerous settlements to pop up around the world, especially areas like this one with a lot of ruins. ...Honestly, I was expecting something a little more rustic, but I stand corrected.

Hahahahaaaa! So you were expecting us all to be in furs, living in log cabins out in the sticks, kid? Sure, it's not huge, compared to Central City, but wherever people and money go, you get a good crowd. Throw up a store here, and you'll get all kinds of customers. And that's how cities grow, my friend.



Music: Rice and Meat Anthem

I-I see... Umm...

Oh, hello, Mr. Duke!

Hey there, Escha! I just finished prepping for tonight. Are you out running errands?

Yes! I'm going to my job now! Um, Logy, this is Mr. Duke, and he runs this store here.

...It's nice to meet you. I'm Logy. I've been assigned to the local branch's R&D department.

Ah, I see, I see! Well, thanks for coming by! You're always welcome here. You still don't know much about this city, right? Well, now y'know where to go when you get hungry. Technically, it's a bar, but I've been putting a lot of work into my menu, too.

That would be a lot of help... I still don't know anywhere to eat.

Anywhere to eat...? I could always make food with alchemy...I think.

Well, now you do. Heck, you can even have dinner here tonight if you want! You're a man! Eat up!

But, if we ate at your bar every day, Duke, we'd be, uh...unable to move.

HAHAHA! Well, I do cook for real manly men. It might be a bit much for a wisp of a girl like you.

You can eat well, despite this season's poor crops...? That's good to hear.



Oh, don't worry about it! All right, Mr. Duke, if you'll excuse us...

Yeah, good luck with your work. Take care of Logy, too!

Thank you very much, Mr. Duke. (What a hearty man...but he seems easy to talk to. Perhaps I should stop by his bar later on.)



What do you think of Mr. Duke?

Hm? Oh, he seems like a nice man. I'm not old enough to be drinking, but I will see if he has good meals to eat. I don't eat a lot, but staying nourished is an important part of any job. Do you cook, Escha?

Um, not much... I mostly know how to make stuff with alchemy, and mostly sweets.

You can make food with alchemy...?

Oh yes! Food made with alchemy tastes great. I'll have to make something nice soon. Most of the cooking done at my house was done by Clone. I'm sure we'll see her when we arrive at the orchards.

(What an odd thing to do with something like alchemy...)


The apple orchard

Music: Apple Tree

So these are the apple orchards...? Whoa.

Isn't there anything like this where you're from?

I'm not sure... At the very least, I've never seen it up close. This place somehow feels really fresh.



Not only fresh, but the scale... There are a lot more trees here than you would think from a remote location such as this. I wonder why... ...Does it come from growing on top of the debris from the ruins? It must impart some vitality.

My oh my...you've returned already, Escha? Have you forgotten something?



Music: Miss, Why Don't We Eat Apples Together?

N-No, I haven't! I'm here on business, really!

Ooooh, did they put you to work already? They're sure keeping you busy, aren't they?

What a strange person... Is she a friend of yours, Escha?

Ah, I'm sorry. This is Clone. She manages the apple orchards, and she's...well, like a mother to me.

Hello, my name's Clone.

("Like" a mother?)

Clone, this is Logy. He's going to be working with me starting today.

Umm... Hello. It's nice to meet you.

I see. Well, I'm sure Escha will be a handful, so please look after her.

You, too... Um... What exactly do you do as the manager here?



We harvest a great number of apples every year. Please feel free to stop by, and I will give you some.

Wow, that would be amazing. I would love to try one if I get the chance.

Oh, but did you say you were here on duty? Is this in regards to the windmill?

Oh, that's right! Um... Someone's supposed to be here already, but...

I think I know where to take you. Please, follow me.

(Is this person...an automaton? What is she doing out on the frontier?) Automata aren't living beings, but appear as lifelike as anyone else on the outside. Due to the extremely complicated nature of constructing them, only a few are known to exist. Clone seems extremely advanced, although it's clear she's an automata, but that still doesn't explain why such a relatively small town has something like this. Maybe Escha knows something?



Music: Glass is Boiling

Hey, Escha. I was wondering where you were today.

Isn't that the man I met at the docks? I didn't know he knows Escha.



Ah, Clone, you're here, too. I just finished my check-up.

Oh? Over so soon? Thank you very much for you hard work.

Well, it still works, but barely. There's only so much I can do here without getting some new parts.

Hmm... That's not good. I will leave the matter to you.

I get it now. So you were the one who got here before us, Brother!

So it would seem. And windmill repair isn't exactly my specialty. Hmm... Did I see you near the depot, by any chance?

Yes, thanks for remembering. I didn't know you were Escha's brother, though.

Haha, we're actually cousins, and we've got a few years between us. We're not siblings by blood. My name's Awin. I'm an engineer, and I maintain the airships around here.

I'm Logy. I've recently been assigned to the Colseit branch. I look forward to working with you.

Same here. And, uh, you don't have to be that formal with me. I'm not that much older than you, you know?

I... I see. Well, I guess... I'll work on that, Awin.



B-Brother... You sure get to know people really fast, huh?

Heh heh heh. We're going to be working together a lot. No need to be such strangers, right?

I-I guess you have a point, but... Why do I feel like I'm lost here...

So, what are the two of you doing together?

I've been assigned to the R&D Division with Escha. She's been kind enough to show me around town.

Oh, that's right. You started your new job today too, Escha. Sorry, I completely forgot about it. So the other new trainee I heard about is actually you, Escha? Heh, it all makes sense now.

Huh? New trainees?

The R&D Division's been under-staffed, so Marion asked me to take care of her new recruits. So I guess that makes me something like your instructor now. Start looking forward to it!

You're an airship engineer, but you repair windmills and teach, as well? That's quite a handful...

Well, engineering is just a part of what I do... In all honesty, I'm more of a jack-of-all-trades.

So, what exactly should we be doing?

You see that windmill? I think I've done about al I can with just normal repairs. That's why I want the two of you to help me make some new components to fix it.

Th-That sounds really difficult. Are you sure we're qualified?

Hahaha, you can leave the actual technical work to the engineers. Your part won't be that hard. Marion should be able to give you more details about it. Well, should we head back to the branch?

I understand... I'll ask our boss. (He seems a little laid-back, but he's really easy to talk to. I should come to him for advice.)

I wish I could show you around the orchards more, but we really should get back to the branch.

I understand. It's not like it's going anywhere.


The docks

Actually, it's a good chance to show Logy around, too. He should get to know the place.

You're right. If you're going to live in Colseit, then you have to see the depot.

Um... I came on an airship, so I've already seen it. Well, I guess I don't have a choice.



Music: Cloud Harbor

Right? We can even accommodate airships coming from Central City.

Haha, pretty good, huh? This is our town's other pride and joy, aside from the apple orchards.

Awin, you're back! What the heck were you doing out there? I told you report back to me!

Sorry, I gotta go take care of this. Can you wait a second? I'll be right back, I swear.

This thing really is well built... I can see how they'd be able to accommodate a large ship. The ports are separated into different levels, so there's little traffic, too. Very efficient.

Wow, you can tell all that just by looking at it, Logy? Amazing! You must know a lot about airships!

Ergh... N-No... Not that much...

Huh? But the way he was talking...

Hey Escha! What was that you were saying about airships?

Oh, hi, Mr. Heizman. Logy was just saying how there are ports on different levels to avoid crowding. This is Mr. Heizman, the head of the Maintenance Division. He's responsible for keeping the town's infrastructure in good shape. He's been working closely with R&D, mainly because we don't have many people...

Good eye... Not too shabby, for a youngin' like you. I respect that! The name's Heizman. I do most of the maintenance around here, and I'm Awin's boss. Good to meet you.

I'm glad to meet you, too. Um, do you mind if I ask... How can this town support such a large depot? I heard that shops and businesses attract a lot of people, but still, it seems very well maintained.



Ruins... Now that you mention it, there was a mention of ruins in the documents... What are they?

They're ruins, floating in the sky not too far from here. People began to call 'em the "Unexplored Ruins". This town was first built as a hub for sending researchers to the Ruins, as a supply depot.

So, these floating ruins are confirmed to exist... But no one's been there? Why not use airships?

That's the thing; we can't. The airstream there's so turbulent, it's impossible to approach them.

Not only that, but there's rubble floating in the air. You get caught up in that, kiss your ship bye-bye.

I see... So no one's actually gone into them. This is the first I've heard of ruins like that.

Isn't that strange!? Ever since I was a child, it's been one of my dreams to visit those ruins... Doesn't the fact that no one's ever explored them before just make you want to do it even more!?

Heh, I suppose so, but if airships can't get you there, it would be quite difficult.

Y-Yeah, I guess you have a point.

What are you talking about? Reaching the Unexplored Ruins is a dream everyone in Colseit shares.

It's true. Now that you're a government official here, you'd better remember stuff like this.

I... I see. All right, I'll try to remember.



Now, you kids still have work to do, right? Well, get to it.

Hahaha, looks like Heizman was in a really good mood.

He loves airships, so I think he was glad to meet someone who knew his language. You're smart, Logy!

...I... Really don't know anything.

Huh? That's the second time he said that... Anyway, we should get back to the branch.


Escha and Logy's atelier

Music: Special Finest Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe

We explored a lot, and talked to lots of people.

I think I have a good idea of what's around the town now.

Well, that's good to hear. By the way, what happened to the windmill?

I think it's pretty close to breaking down completely. It's going to need a lot of new parts. Despite that, I don't think it'll be hard. And since it involves the orchard, it's perfect for Escha.

True. Well, then, why don't we use this as a learning opportunity? That's right... I haven't shown you two to your atelier, have I? Since we have a few minutes, why don't you take a quick look? You'll be spending a lot of time there. I'm going to speak with Awin about the other outstanding tasks.

You're right... I completely forgot about that!

Yes, it would be a good idea to see the atelier, since we will be doing all our work there.

Ha, well, this way. Follow me.



Hey, did R&D ever have an atelier before? This is the first time I've ever heard of you having one...

Actually, we had to put it together in a spare room. But we need it, since now we have two alchemists! Ah, there we go. Make sure you have everything you need in there. When you're done, come back and see me.

Of course! I wonder what it looks like...



Music: What Should I Do?

Heh... So this is our workspace now?

It's got a sofa, and a desk...and a cauldron for alchemy!

A cauldron...? What is something so dated doing...here...?

Haha, of course there's one! It's an atelier! Oh man, this is going to be a blast!

I can't believe such old methods are still in use... I have no idea how to Synthesize using a cauldron.

Huuuuh!? Logy, you ARE an alchemist, aren't you!?

I am...but how should I explain this... In Central City, we don't do things with a cauldron anymore.

Y-You don't...? I thought this was normal, but... There's other ways to do it, too?

Normally, we have specific equipment for each process. Hmm... I wasn't expecting this.

Then you mean that you can't perform your alchemy here...?

Not right away, at least. Hm... This isn't good. I know next to nothing about cauldrons.

Oh no... I was going to learn a lot from you, too! I guess we don't have a choice. I'll be taking care of all the Synthesizing, m'kay?

W-Well, there are two of us here, after all... We should split the work.



In exchange, I'll support you in any way I can. The methods may change, but the materials don't.

Oh! Then, can you teach me what you need to mix to make certain things? I only know very simple alchemy...

Hmm... Then why don't you handle the Synthesizing in the beginning, and I'll handle everything else.

Got it! If we work together, I'm sure we can make all sorts of amazing stuff!

There's no point in complaining about the facility. I need to figure out what it is I can do.



H-Huh...? What's this, all of a sudden?

Um, well... We are going to be working together and all...so I thought we should be friends.

I...see. No point in being weird about it, I suppose. I should've been more considerate, myself. I may not know much about these methods, but I hope to do my best, too... I'm counting on you.

Yes! Leave it to me!

Thanks! Now that we've seen our accommodations, how about we go back to Marion?

We're finally going to use our Atelier! I'm so excited.

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 21:18 on Aug 24, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

SSNeoman posted:

Oh you can actually select your player character in this one? Interesting. Is the gameplay otherwise the same for both of them, just different character interactions?

Just different character interactions, the gameplay is otherwise the same. When we actually start using the cauldron, Escha always handles that, but further on in the game Logy will get to do some work himself. The regular battle music and the atelier theme do change depending on who your main character is, actually. That's about the only "real" change in the gameplay.

Oh, and the actual story behind Escha's outfit that I'm using is that if you preordered this game on Amazon or at Gamestop, you got free outfits to go along with it. I went with Amazon and got that cool witch outfit (interestingly, it also makes Escha do a different winning pose after a battle and makes her say something different, I think), bu Gamestop got you a different outfit for Escha and Logy. I went with the witch, since I didn't like either of the others enough to preorder at Gamestop (doesn't help I don't live near any Gamestops).

But, all three outfits are on PSN if you want to buy them. I don't feel any pressing need to get Escha's other outfit or Logy's special costume, though.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Glazius posted:

Well wasn't that intro just the most pastoral thing ever?

Seriously, though, I really like the dynamic they're setting up here. ...how long has it been since there was a dude starring in an Atelier game? Does Mana Khemia count?

I'm pretty sure Mana Khemia is considered part of the Atelier series by Gust, even if they're not very much like the Atelier-Atelier games.

And I think Logy might be the first dude to star in one of these games as a titular character. Shallie also has the dual protagonist thing, but both Shallies (it's a nickname) are girls.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Part II: The Enterprising Lad and Lass



Music: Magnum Opus

So this is the atelier... I guess it makes sense that a town this small wouldn't have Central's equipment for alchemy, but I still feel bad about making Escha do all the work. I'll have to help out in other ways until I can talk to Marion about this.

Logy, is something wrong?

No...anyway, shouldn't we go talk to Marion about our first task?

Oh, yes! Good idea!


A difficult new life

Well, it looked really good to me, but...

"But"? Is there something wrong with it?

Actually... There was one small problem... People in Central have heard of using cauldrons for alchemy, but the problem is that nobody's been trained to use cauldrons for alchemy in a long time. The speed of more specialized alchemy machines has transformed alchemy in Central, and I can use those easily. But, a cauldron is just something that I haven't worked with in my life...and that's it.

I'm sorry, I was under the impression that all alchemists need to do anything is a cauldron. I wasn't really sure what to get for you... But it seems you have more equipment in Central City.

Huh? If this is the first day Escha has seen the atelier, where did Marion get the idea that all alchemists use cauldrons? Definitely no one from Central...

What should we do? At this rate, I'm going to be doing all of the Synthesizing on my own...

I'll help her as much as I can, but it's true that she'll be doing most of the heavy lifting.

There's nothing to be done now. For the time being, we have to work with what we have.

I'm really sorry I couldn't be more helpful.

No, it's my lack of preparation and knowledge that led to this mess. Do you think you can make do for now?

Please don't worry about it. Now that I'm an official worker here, I want to do everything I can!

I'll have to think of new recipes that'll work with a cauldron. I suppose that's the first step.



Music: Perch

Since you'll be officially working for us now, there will be a lot for you to learn and keep in mind.

Yes! I'm looking forward to it.

At R&D, we operate and undertake tasks in four-month intervals. You will be given new assignments in April, August, and December, and work on them the full four months. During that time, you will one major project, and several small projects.

Does priority go towards the larger project, or the smaller ones?

Of course, the larger tasks are more important. In fact, failing to perform them earns you a poor rank. I will be the one assigning these missions to you, so I would like you two to do as many as you can. If you complete more smaller tasks than your quota, this will be reflected on your monthly stipend.

What's a "stipend"?

In other words, we must complete our main mission during the given time period, or we have "failed".

That's one way to put it, I suppose. Do you have any other questions?

Question! Could you explain more about the stipend?

It's basically money allocated to R&D from the branch's funds. You may earn some money from day-to-day activities, but the main income will be from this stipend. There is no doubt that your expeditions will cost money, so please use these funds wisely.

So, if we don't watch our finances, we risk not being able to do anything until the next month.

Yeah, it would be really bad if we ran out of money halfway through an assignment!

You're getting the idea. Don't waste your resources, and remember to check your account every month. Keep up with your assigned tasks, and you'll be able to use your stipend for a variety of things. And, as members of R&D, do a good job and help increase our ratings.

Yeah! Leave it to us!

We'll have to ensure that we complete our main assignments, at the very least.



Music: Hummingbird

Logy, I'm still a little confused...

How should I say this... Marion will give us a summary of the main task of the assignment, and other, smaller, assignments. When part of the assignment is completed, I'll mark it down and let Marion know it's been done. Sometimes an assignment will have more than one step, and Marion will give us an updated version of the assignment summary to let us know what to do next.

Look at the paper closely. Do you see how the nine inside squares are a different color than the 16 squares outside?


Uh...yeah!

Those are smaller parts of the main assignment. Even if we don't know what they are, I'll make a note of everything we did when we go outside town. When we know what the tasks are, I can update them, so our progress still counts.

Oh, I see! Thanks, Logy!





Oh, is that the one to fix the windmill that Brother was talking about?

Yes. I've made that your task for this time period. He said that the windmill is wearing down, and some of its parts need to be replaced with new ones.

So, we have to make these new parts using alchemy, and then someone else will take care of the rest?

That's right. We'll take it slow for now. Once you have created the parts, bring them over to Clone.

Bring it to Clone, got it!

And don't forget to report to me once you've finished something. Until you do, you won't be graded.

The assignment isn't complete until we report back to you. Understood.



Ah, there's so much to remember... I think I'm getting lost...

Don't worry. I took down some notes, so you can always refer to them.

Th-Thank you very much, Logy! This will be a huge help!

Your assignments will also serve as an aptitude test. If you cannot perform tasks of this magnitude, then I'm afraid it means you are unfit to proceed.

D-Does that mean we're gonna get fired!?

...I'm sure the two of you will do just fine.

I... I understand. We'll do our best.

Very well, then. I'm counting on you both. When the time arises, I'll show you how to make your reports.

All right... Time to get crackin'!

Oh, but before we do, I need to figure out how to make the things we need.

Wait, I forgot to tell you something very important. I'm sure you'll be doing a lot of alchemy, but you should know how to talk to the Provisions Department.

The Provisions Department? What do you mean?

The girl at the entrance to the office should be able to help you with that. Before you leave, be sure to stop by the Administration Office, m'kay?



I'm still a little confused...

Don't worry, Escha. I'll talk with Marion about how to make the reports in the future. Just focus on the synthesizing, and I'll work on the reports. I've got a few things to talk to her about, actually, so don't worry. I'll help in any way I can.

Really? That's great! By the way, do you know where Marion got that teddy bear?

No, I didn't really have time to even notice it... It doesn't seem like the type of thing Marion would have in her office...

She got it from a friend of hers! I think her name was...Pamela, I think? Yeah, I think it was Pamela. Anyway, I haven't heard from her in a while. Looking at the teddy bear, I get kind of a strange feeling from it. Let's go to the Administration Office, okay?



Music: Simulcra

Give us pay. We worked hard.

Yes, yes, yes, I know, I'll pay you. Wait a little, all right?

You promised, Solle!

Shiny... Glimmering...!

Hmm... So you even have homunculi working at this branch? I've never seen one up close.

You don't have any where you're from? Hee hee, they're pretty cute.

R-Really? I'm not really good with them...

Huh!? Why's that? They're so cute!

I guess... I'm not very good at talking to them, and we never seem to understand each other. Anyway, we have to go see the person in charge of Provisions.

Oh, Logy. It's strange that you're not good around homunculi, you know?

"Strange?" They're alive, like us, but they were made with alchemy... I think it's weirder to be good around them...



Music: Sugary Spice

You must be the alchemists who were just assigned to the R&D Division. I thought you'd come by soon.



My name's Solle. I'm in charge of the paperwork, accounting, and most of the applications around here.

Um, what exactly is the Provisions Department? Marion told us we'd find out if we came here, but...

(Sigh) Marion really should take better care of the newcomers. Well, since you're alchemists, you'll probably be here a lot. I suppose I owe you a walkthrough.

S-Sorry...and thank you...

Now, then. At our local branch, we encourage independent investigation and philanthropic work. So that end, you will require support from the Provisions Department, and our homunculi.

Huh... I never knew such a system existed. Can you explain a bit more?

As you already know, homunculi have a different skill set than humans. They have a very high aptitude for reproducing things. They can recreate just about anything. Of course, there are some limitations, and they are incapable of creating something entirely new.

I never knew they could do that... That's so surprising!

Of course, living in Central, I've seen homunculi work before. Escha's right...it's still really strange how the minds of homunculi work.

You didn't...after all this time? That's what surprises me... And so, with the aid of the homunculi, we are able to support all of our expeditions here. Put simply, whatever you create with your alchemy or use in your expeditions, we can create more.

They can resupply us with tools and provisions in time for our next assignment? That's amazing...!

I suppose that's one way of looking at it, but they are for branch use only. I won't let you misuse them. Also, there are quite a few things even they cannot duplicate, so limit their use to consumables.

I see... So we can't ask them to make an infinite supply of tools for us, then.

I'm not saying they can't do it, I'm saying that it's beyond the duties of this department. Furthermore, because have a limited homunculus staff, I will deny any unreasonable requests.

Seems like he's really protective of them...

Really? Why's that...?



If, however, you increase your ratings, we will devote more of our resources to your requests.

...So it's entirely up to us to determine the quality of our provisions?

I'm glad you're so quick to understand. Now, let me explain how you submit a supply application. First, there are still some supplies from previous R&D members that I suggest you look through.

Logy...

I know. I'll try to explain it to you later. His explanation uses a lot of strange words, but I think I know how it works.



Okay, this is how it works, Escha. When we make something with alchemy that can be used on an adventure, we have to register it with Solle. Before we leave on an adventure, we have to let Solle know what items we have, and how many of them we have. That lets him know what items to tell the homunculi to make.

When we return from an adventure, I'll check it in Solle and allow him to examine our inventory. Then, he'll let us restore our supply of the items we used on the adventure. So, a healing salve helps heal minor wounds, right? If we have three of them on an adventure, I'll let Solle know, and he can tell the homunculi how many to make. That way, we don't have to make new items for adventures. And don't worry about talking to Solle about items, I'll take care of it.


Oh, I think I understand! Thanks Logy! What kinds of items do we have?

Three Healing Salves, and 4 Crafts. Crafts are a pretty weak type of bomb, but we shouldn't need more powerful items on our first adventure together. Escha, I'll let you use the Crafts. I'll take care of the Healing Salves on our first adventure. Wow... These aren't too impressive, are they?

Well, they had so much work that I think they barely ever left the building... And, they're quite old.

So this is all we have to go on our expeditions with...? That's a little worrying.

You're welcome to invest in your own equipment. You are alchemists, after all.

Of course we are! I'm gonna go get ready right away!

Let's go back to our atelier for now. I need to see how good you are Synthesizing, Escha.



Music: Morning Dew Pizzicato

We're going to make medicine out of these? I'm getting a little nervous...

Hahaha, just do what you always do. You should be fine.

R-Right... Okay, I'm gonna do my best. So Logy, let me explain to you how you Synthesize with a cauldron!



Making items in a cauldron can be kinda tricky... First you need the materials, and the recipe for the item you want to make. Making something without a recipe can be really dangerous, but there are alchemy books all over the world! Alchemists in the past were really smart and we still use what they invented...it's not impossible to make new recipes, but it is very hard. I can't teach you that.

Once you decide what item to make, you have to use your materials to make it, of course. By selecting different ingredients, you can bring out new effects from the item. Here, let's give it a try!




Okay! To make a Healing Salve, we need a (Plant), (Oil), and (Liquid). When we gather new materials, write down what you think the category is for it. I can check my books when we get back to the atelier. For the (Plant), please hand me that Wind Flower. For the (Oil), pass me a Bullet Seed. And for the (Liquid), you can give me the Water, Mixed Oil, or the Clean Water from the well in town.



I have a question. What does "Eases Illness" mean? I see those words next to Fresh Water in your notebook.

Oh, that! Materials all over the world have different properties to them. Some materials can heal you more, some hurt enemies, some can make you stronger or give you more vitality...there's so many materials and properties in the world, there's probably nothing they can't do if you look hard enough for them! Eases Illness means if a monster poisons you, or makes you weaker than normal, the item will heal you!

Before I add anything to the cauldron, you can ask me what anything does, and I can tell you. Even if I haven't written it down in my notebook, I can go back to the orchard and ask Clone for one of the alchemy books my mother wrote. She was a lot smarter than me, and knew a lot more stuff.




Once you've selected your materials, you can review the Effects that will be on the final item. "Recov. Bonus Min", means the Healing Salve I'm making now will heal wounds better than the Healing Salve Solle let us use. Like with the properties, if it's not in my notebook, it's in one of the alchemy books my mother left me.



Next comes the funnest part of synthesis! How you add materials can really change what an item does, either making it better or worse... But since I'm not very confident in my alchemy skills, let's just put in the Wind Flower, Bullet Seed, and Clean Water for now. My mother taught me that everything in the world is made up of the elements Fire, Wind, Water, and Earth. That includes the items we make with alchemy. Each material in the world has elemental properties. For example, you can see the Bullet Seed is a Fire-elemental material.

Each material also has a certain "cost" to using it in a synthesis. The cost I can use depends on the materials and how good at alchemy I am. Right now, the cost isn't very high...so we can't make very nice items. But as I get better at alchemy, I can do more! Every time I synthesize, I also make a note of what the elemental properties of the materials I used add up to. Umm....don't worry about that right now, m'kay? I'll explain what that means later.

When you think you're okay with the item, just tell me, I can start the synthesizing process! You can also go back to the step and choose new materials if you want to make the item in a different way. The alchemy process uses a lot of chemicals and time, and I don't know how it works well enough to explain it to you. But I can do it! I have to add the materials together, change the elements with very special chemicals, then I can synthesize! Most of the work that I do is just stirring...but the way you stir is very important. Anyway, don't worry about that!




The last step of making an item is choosing the properties. Properties come from the materials and I use, and some properties I can't put on certain items. But you can't put all the properties you want on an item, or it'll go bad and you can't use it. Tell me the three properties you want, and I'll put it on this Healing Salve.

Okay...how about "Eases Illness", "Fixed Healing", and "Effect Up"?



I did it!

Hmm... So that's how you Synthesize something using a cauldron? Fascinating.

Heh heh, I'm pretty confident in my ability at making medicine. Would you like to give it a shot, Logy?

...No, this doesn't look like the sort of thing I'll pick up at once. I'll slowly try to understand it.

D-Does it really look that hard? I've been doing it since I wa a girl, so it comes naturally to me.

Well, aside from that, this method takes longer than I expected. We'll need to manage our time carefully.

H-Huh!? Am... Am I really slow at this?

No, that's not what I meant. The equipment is dated, so there's a lot of areas we can try to improve. We need to figure out how to be more efficient. I'll try to think of a plan. You focus on Synthesis.

O-Okay... I'll try to work a little faster...

At any rate, we made the medicine. Let's go take this to the Provisions Department. This is all we have right now, but once we can create formulae, I'm sure things will get easier.

Yeah, and I need to work on my alchemy, too!



Oh, Brother! Welcome!

I've gathered up all the materials I thought we'd need to repair the windmill.

Thanks. Let's take a look...

You think that'll do?

It doesn't look that difficult to make, but the problem is materials, We simply don't have enough.

Then, let's go outside of town to gather what we need! We can also collect items for future jobs.

Right, we have to gather materials ourselves... I forgot. I rarely had to do that in the city.

...You mean you don't gather, either? Just what do alchemists do in Central City?

Haha, I guess alchemy is different all over the world. Well, we should get on our way.

Huh? Don't you have to work to do, Brother?

I need to make sure you two get a good start. I'm not tossing you out of town without supervision.

That's a good idea... Thanks for the support, Awin.

Don't mention it. I was actually looking for something to do, so it all works out. I'm interested in R&D too, and with the both of you in my care... Let's go on some adventures.

C-Can you really be that easygoing? Don't blame us if you get into trouble with Heizman.

Ha, don't worry about it. As long as I'm doing what I have to, he'll understand.



Why don't we start in the nearby forest? I'm sure there are lots of good trees we can use there.

Yeah, I know where the forest is. But let's not forget to prepare for the journey!



Brother is going to be a lot of help! He's so strong from working on machines all day!

I can tell he's strong, but Escha...if we have to fight some monsters, I want you to stay close to him. I'm not that used to fighting, since I hardly left my workshop in Central, and Awin can probably protect you better than I can.



Our first adventure together! I'm so excited!



Music: Our Planet Has But One Sky



Let's start near the forest entrance. I'm sure we'll find something good there!



Music: A Story of an Adventure in an Uninhabited and Terrifying Place

That's because it IS dangerous. There are monsters all over the place. ...Like that one, you see?



An Ore Rat... I suppose that monsters are just a hazard that comes along with investigation.

Logy, do you have any combat experience?

...I can't say that I have much of it. Back home, I used to spend most of my time in the atelier.

Ha, well, some's better than none. The monsters here aren't all that strong, so I think you'll be fine. I'll give you some advice, so do your best to take them down. This is all part of being your mentor.

Yeah... Time to give it a shot.

I-I've never had to fight anything before!

Don't worry, Escha, you'll get used to it after you've done it for a while.

If we're really cornered, we have the supplies we brought... They should help.



Just remember that we have to go back to town to get resupplied. You have to plan when to use them.

O-Okay... I think I can do this!



Music: Pavane

Okay, Escha. Try hitting that monster with your staff before it gets too close!



Music: Updraft
First battle

You were a little slow...if you hit the monster first, you'll be able to attack before they know you're there. Remember that for the future. If me or Awin has enough time, we can protect you when an enemy attacks. It's important to protect yourself and the people who are fighting with you.



My sword is going to be a little more effective in battle than your staff, but I'm here to help you in battle, of course. I can use items in my basket in battle, just like you can use items in your basket. Awin's not an alchemist, so he probably doesn't know how to use the items and make them work.



When the timing is right, we can follow up attacks on the enemy. As we hit the enemy without giving them a chance to recover, the damage rate grows up. That means with the same attacks, from my sword, Awin's hammer, or your staff, they'll do more damage than they normally would. Be sure to work with your teammates to stay safe, and defeat monsters that attack.

Right! I'll do my best!



Music: Increase the Altitude

It might seem scary now, but I'm sure you'll learn how to fight effectively the more you work with me, Awin, and anyone else who wants to help us with our assignments. If you ever need more specific advice, I'll do what I can.



Logy, there's another gathering point nearby. Maybe we can find some of the things Awin needs to fix the windmill here... I know I've come here to get Bullet Seeds and Tauns, a kind of plant with medicinal properties.



You're right... There's no harm in collecting them now. That would seem the most efficient option.

Well, since we've come all the way out here, let's collect everything we can!

Wait, wait, our priority is to fix the windmill. If we spend too much time here, we'll miss our deadline.

Th-That's right... I need to find items that will help us with our goal. But even things we don't need right away, we may need further down the road.

Good point. I'm a little worried about our schedule, but harvesting items while we're here is smart. Looks like we won't find what we need for the windmill here... Let's go a little deeper.



Escha, me and Awin are going to check the area for enemies. You can take as much time as you need to gather materials.

Oh, that's good, because it takes me a long time to pick the materials out of the ground and put them in the basket carefully. If you rip them out of the ground, it can ruin them... You have to be so careful with alchemy materials.



If I find something new, Logy, I'll be sure to tell you about it! I've seen Silver Hives before, but maybe you haven't, living in Central all your life... But I'm sure there's a lot even I haven't seen. With your help, I'm sure I'll find some amazing materials!



I've noticed it in other places...but what is all of this, Escha? There's barrels, pieces of wood that would have been used for buildings, logs, boxes...all kinds of things that indicates people lived here before, but it doesn't look like anyone's been here for a long time.

I actually asked Marion about this one day. She said there used to be a pretty large village in this area, next to Colseit. Then one day, everyone just left... I've heard the previous people at R&D were supposed to find out what happened to everyone living here, but they weren't able to find out why everyone left and the village disappeared. Maybe we can find out why...

Hmm...


The one who uses magic

Yeah... Don't go too far.



I-Is that...! Miss Wilbell! Hello!



Music: Baby Bird Part 2

Miss Wilbell is a girl who came from a really far away place to learn about life in Colseit. She said the name of her town one time...Vierze-something, I think, but after one of her friends left, she decided she'd start traveling the world. She has a lot of interesting stories, and there's also something else special about her...

Huh? Oh hey, Escha. What are you doing here?

I've come to collect materials for my job.

Oh, yeah... You did start a new job, didn't you? How's that going? Wait, there are a lot of monsters around here, y'know? Can you actually fight?

I don't intend to let Escha fight on her own. I think we'll be okay. Wait a minute...Wilbell's hat, Escha's hat... Could she be...?

...Say, who's the new face around town?

My name's Logy. I'm an alchemist working with Escha.

Hmm... I'm Wilbell. I travel from city to city for... Reasons. Gotta admit, I've never seen a young alchemist like you. All the men I know who do it are old farts.

Oh yeah...one of her friends was named Keith something. I forget his last name...

So, do you mind if I ask what you do? You don't appear to be in the same trade...

Wilbell is a mage! Isn't that amazing?

Wha...? A mage? "Mage"? As in magic? No way.



I-I was...? I'm sorry...

Ugh, in one ear and out the other. You're NOT supposed to tell other people about that, got it?

...Don't worry. I have no reason to reveal your secrets.

W-Wait a second... You don't actually believe it, do you!?



That's because my ancestors worked really hard to keep it that way. If our powers were used for a bad cause... Who knows what would happen.

Okay, okay. By the way, we're looking for materials to repair a windmill. Have you seen any?

...Why do I feel like you're not taking me seriously? You can find the materials on your own. Buh-bye, kids... Don't go too deep and get lost in there, you hear?

Y-Yes... You be careful, too, Miss Wilbell. C'mon, Logy. You can't doubt everyone like that.

How could I possibly believe her? Her story has no evidence at all.

W-Well, that might be true, but...

Hey, I found some things that could be useful!

Hey, Brother's calling us. We'd better go.

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 20:59 on Aug 31, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

SSNeoman posted:

So is this game going to be dealing with the fallout of killing Yggrdrasil? Or was that a self-contained incident?

More self-contained that anything that has a huge impact on this game's plot, but that's not to say there's not things that tie this game into Ayesha's backstory.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Glazius posted:

Ah, continuity.

So can you actually see what items are in a gathering spot before you sink time into getting them?

Nope. It's always a gamble what exactly you'll get, but you can tell what materials are in a location before going there, from the gathering point's information on the world map.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Jagged Jim posted:

Another quick item question: I noticed that there doesn't seem to be a "Quality" rating for the items, is that not a thing in this game or is it covered by that "Effect" meter?

Glad to see you doing another Atelier game, Sylphid. :toot:

You're right, there is no "Quality" rating on items you pick up in the field or make in the Atelier. The Effect on synthesized materials is the closest thing to "Quality" in this game. For items you make, the "Effect" is the average of the "Effect" ratings of the items you used to make it in the first place. Obviously, higher Effect is better, but it's not a deal breaker in either direction. The most important thing is packing good traits (Properties) on the item, and getting good Effects. The Effect bar is unrelated to the Effects summary you get from the alchemy screen after you make an item.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Part III: The Pint-Sized Merchant and Herbalist



I'm just saying, you can't go around and assume everyone is telling the truth about everything they say. That can be dangerous. Have you even ever seen her do magic?

Well, no... But she's teling the truth! Can't you see how many mysterious jewels and items she has?

That's not convincing. If she can't do magic, then there's no point to all that stuff.

I guess so...but I still believe her! Let's just focus on the task, okay? Brother says there's some good stuff to find near here.



This must be the remains of the actual village. There's houses we can go into as well. Let's make sure to check this whole area.



Amazing, it's like everyone just left right in a hurry and left everything behind. There's still chairs, and beans in the bags... People could have been living here yesterday. I really wonder what happened to this village...



Awww...I thought we'd find some amazing treasure. It's just a shirt.

Even considering it's age, it's still pretty strong. You can probably get more benefit from it than me. Your clothes don't seem too sturdy, and take a lot of damage from even Ore Rat attacks.

Yeah, you're right.



Logy! Logy! Look at this! It's a cog! It's in bad shape, but with alchemy, we can make windmill parts from this!

You're right. Awin has good senses...who would have guessed that something that like would be here? It's a good thing we found the materials after only a few weeks. There's no telling how far we'll have to search for materials in the future. I look forward to seeing how you make good parts out of these, Escha.

Of course! Leave it to me! Come on, we should find more parts, too.





Yeah... All we have to do now is go back and Synthesize the parts for the windmill. ...Don't you think we should look around a little more while we're here?

Haha, I don't recommend taking too many detours. This is Marion's test for you guys, isn't it? If you miss your first deadline, I can't guarantee that you'll get to keep your fancy new jobs.

Good point... Escha, we should go back for now. If we need more materials, we can come back later.

Okay... But are you sure we can't take a little detour?

I won't stop you, but part of this job is going to be learning how to manage our time carefully. If you think you can find better materials, we can stay here, but I'd like to see how you make something more complicated than a Healing Salve.

Okayyyyyyy...I guess we can go back now.



Heh, I'm leaving this one up to you, Escha.

This'll be my first official Synthesis for m job... I have to work!

Yeah, do your best. While you're working, I'm going to ask Marion how we prepare reports. I'm sure she won't mind for the first time, but in the future I'll need to learn how to do it.

Uhhh, wait! Logy, can you teach me how to create this? I've never created metal with alchemy before...

Hm...okay. The most important thing to remember is to be careful adding the Bent Screw and Rusty Cog. You should add the Rusty Cogs to the cauldron first. They'll sublimate in the cauldron and prepare it to receive the Wind Flowers and Bent Screws. It provides a metal base that will form the Windmill Parts according to the plans Awin gave us.

After the Cogs have been added, you should wait at least half a day before adding the Bent Screws. After that, you can add the Wind Flowers. You should give yourself plenty of time to make the actual Windmill Parts, it's going to be a little tricky. I'll tell you what I can, but it's up to you. I'm sure you can do it, Escha. Okay, let's begin.




Three days, and nine materials...okay, I can do this!



Whew...I did it!



Music: Germination

Wow, you really can create a lot of things using a cauldron. I'm impressed.

Thank you so much for teaching me... Um, nothing's ever gone this well for me on the first try!

Heh, I'm just glad I could be useful. If we keep this up, we'll make amazing things in no time.

Yes! I'll do my best, so we can create more items!

I need to start Synthesizing to help out, too. We won't be any good at our current rate.

Having you help me made the process go really smoothly, though. I think this arrangement will work for now!

I'm glad to hear you say that, but I do feel a little useless. Maybe I can do something besides Synthesis. ...But first, we should bring the parts back to the apple orchard.

Got it! Let's go right away! (Whew... I'm so glad that went smoothly. I'm sure Clone will be surprised that I built this!) Actually...I'm kind of hungry. Maybe we should go visit Duke...

That's a good idea. I haven't got a chance to eat there yet.



Duke's bar is pretty cheap, and he gives you big portions. It's really popular with the branch employees.



Hi, Duke! You look pretty busy, as usual.

Hell, yeah! But, these are all just my regulars, so it's nothing to get excited over. I need to get some new blood in this place, but it's been a little tougher than I thought it would be.

Yo, old man! Where's my food?

Hahah! When I said your cooking's worth waiting a year for, I didn't mean starting right now!

All right, I hear ya. You just hang tight, ya knuckleheads! Sorry, it's getting a little rowdy in here.

Th-That's how you treat your customers...? I'm surprised they don't get mad at you.

Well, we've all known each other for so long here, we can throw some friendly jokes back and forth. Hah!

Heh heh... I always see these guys here in your bar.

Oh, yeah, we were all partners in the branch. Ever since I retired, they've been really supportive.

Huh? Wait a second, do you mean to tell me...

Yep, I used to work for the Colseit branch, once upon a time. When I retired, I decided to buy this bar. It's not really done anymore, but in my day, when a newbie joined the branch, they'd throw a party here. Pretty soon, this bar would become the favorite watering hole of every single person in the branch.

I can see why you'd take the place over, then. It does seem relaxed and casual in here.

Don't forget about all the great food!



Oh, and we usually have a decent stash of ingredients, if you happen to need any. I'll sell 'em cheap!

Th-That would be really helpful! If we ever need any, we'll stop by!



Music: Kitchen Dance

These are some nice ingredients, but we don't need have enough money for the most important thing - more alchemy recipes. It's probably a better idea to wait until our first stipend to buy it.



Hey, do we need any materials? if they sell them in town, I was going to pick some up.

Ooh, I do need a few things, but I don't know if the regular stores have them for sale. Chemicals for the cauldron, a new stirring stick... It's always important to only do alchemy when you have all the materials in front of you, after all.

I doubt we'll find anything too obscure. Central City had some specialized stories, though.

Hey there, sir and madam. You wanna take a look at my wares?



Here in Katla's Shoppe you can find all kinds of rare items and fine masterpieces. Take your time!

Hey, it's her again. I've seen her around town, but... Huh? There's a store here...?

There is now, thanks for noticing! See, my previous location didn't get much traffic, so I moved here. Perhaps it was Fate that brought you through my door today... Why not take a look around?

Sorry, we've got everything we need. Maybe next time.



But I understand, though... It's bad form to interrupt such a cute couple on a date!

Whoa, hey, we're just coworkers! And we're on the clock right now.

Oh? Okay, pardon me. But don't you think it's important to take breaks from work now and again?

Why don't we just take a little look? There could be some interesting finds in there!

...If you must.

Honestly, Logy, you should be a little more curious!

Please, please, come right in. All our products are lined up right here. Take your time!

Wow, you really do have some rare things in stock... Quite a few of them, no less.

There's so much stuff! Maybe we could use this! Look at this! And this! And this! Wowza!

Maybe I should manage the money from now on...

I can tell you're not an average customer. You've got good eyes... So, what is that, anyway?

Wh-What is that--! This is YOUR shop! Aren't you supposed to know what you're selling!?

Whoa, that was just a slip of the tongue. I meant, what a good bargain you've got there!

Um... We're alchemists, and we started working at the local government branch recently.

I see, alchemists! No wonder you two have such fine faces and great style. It makes perfect sense!

...Do you have any idea what alchemists do?

You can tell me all about your job next time. For now, just keep browsing! Drink it all in, yeah. If you find what you're looking for here, then always remember to stop by the humble Katla's Shoppe. I'm constantly updating my stock, so it wouldn't hurt to check in every now and again, I promise.

(...What a charlatan. But she does have a number of materials. I guess looking in here won't hurt.) So Escha, who is this girl, anyway? Why does she talk like that?

I don't know much about her... A few months ago, she came into town and set up her shop on the main road. Someone told her to move, and I've seen her around Colseit ever since then. This is the first time I've seen her here, though. She's a little strange, but she's got some nice stuff, right?

I guess, but still, we should probably be careful with her...



A lot of old materials, but nothing we probably need right now. She's right, though, she may come across some amazing things that will really help us with our job.



Ms. Wilbell stays in town when she's not outside. I think she said she was studying magic. She wants to learn more about the spirits in this area of the world, since where she cames from she said she had already made a "pact" with the most powerful spirit, someone she called the Wind Ruler.

This story is only getting more silly. I'm telling you, Escha, there's no such thing as "magic".


Fateful girl

Hmm... She should be around here somewhere.

Huh? Escha? What are you doing here?



Music: A Flower Blooming Nearby Part 2

This is Miss Nio, an herbalist who came with Miss Wilbell from far away. She lives in a different house in the apple orchards, since she wanted to start living in Colseit, and me and Clone had another house we could give her. She's a big help around the orchards, so me and Clone are happy to have her around. Oh, Miss Nio! Do you know where I can find Clone?

She just went right over there... I think she should be back soon.

Oh, thanks! I guess we'll wait here for a while.

Another friend of yours, Escha?

Hello! My name is Nio. Escha's house has been really good in taking care of me.

My name's Logy. I'm an alchemist working with Escha at R&D.

Oh, really? I thought Escha was the only alchemist in this town.

Well, I just arrived here from Central City. But, do you mind explaining what you meant just now?

Miss Nio's a pharmacist on a journey from far far away. She just came here recently.

Because of some unforeseen circumstances, I'm going to be staying in Colseit for a while. And Escha was kind enough to let me stay with her.

...A lady traveling alone? That seems dangerous.

I'm with Miss Wilbell, so I think I'll be fine. But, I guess I won't be traveling for a little while.

I see. From your looks, I would estimate that you're around the same age as Escha.

Yeah... But Miss Nio does a lot of really difficult stuff with medicine! She knows so much!



Also, you don't have to keep calling "Miss" Nio, okay? It's embarrassing.

Aww... And I was just getting used to calling you that! You seem so much more mature than I am, too...

Ah, I think I get it now. Something about the way she talked to you sounded a little strange.

Heh heh... I'm hoping she gets used to it after a while. Oh, yeah...! I gather materials for medicines and sell them. If you ever need something, just ask.

That would actually be a great help. We'll be sure to come see you.



She seems so smart, and she knows so much... I bet she knows a lot about magic after traveling on the road so long with Miss Wilbell. And, I don't know...there's something strange about her.



I just like saying "Barrel"!

So do I, actually... I don't know what it is about the word, but I just like saying it. Anyway, we should get back to work and give Clone the Windmill Parts.





Understood. Thank you very much.

Still, I'm impressed that you knew enough about alchemy to be able to create this.

Hehehe... We're awesome, huh?

Indeed. I believe we may finally be able to put our problems with that windmill to rest. It is all thanks to the two of you. Thank you so very much.

Y-You don't need to be that thankful...

Don't be so humble. The two of you are no doubt contributing to our city. Please, take pride in that.

...Yeah! Thank you, Clone. I think I'm really beginning to love my job.

I didn't know that our work would make so many people happy.

My, oh my... You've only just begun your work. We are all cheering you on.



Our boss said that the job isn't over until we report to her, remember?

Y-Yeah, that's right... We've got to go talk to Marion.

Oh, is that so? You must take care to remember what your duties are...

Aww... We're fine!

We haven't learned what to do when we make our report yet... Let's get back. I'm still amazed by Clone's ability to talk and act like a human. It's obvious she's an automaton, but whoever made her did an excellent job. I want to talk to her later about that.



Is that so? Well, good job, you two. Well then, now that that's over, I think it's time you both learned how to submit a report.

Right... What exactly do we need to do to write it?

I'll give you an overview, but there's really no specific format to doing these. Okay, let's start at the top. First, when ou come back, let me know how much progress you've made.

Um, so we start by talking to you... Got it.

...This reminds me of when I began my first job. It's like I described it to you last time, Escha. I'll make a brief report of everything we do when we go outside town, and that will let Marion know our progress toward the various tasks each assignment. I'll try and keep everything organized, but I do want you to learn how to do it, too.



I told Marion about everything we did in Twilight Forest, but in the future, we'll be going to more and more distant areas, so I'll need to learn how to write reports. You just worry about the synthesizing for now. Even if we haven't completed the other tasks, as long as we accomplish the task in the center of the paper, we'll have completed our assignment.



This means we've completed our goal for the month, then, right?

That's right. And it's a good idea to prioritize your more important tasks, like this one. But when you complete smaller tasks, I can mark those off as work completed by the R&D Department. if we keep this up, our ratings will continue to rise.

So, whenever we finish something, we should come report it to you, right?

Yeah. That would certainly be helpful...and it'll increase our expense allowances. One more thing: You designate which report will be the last of the term. So, if you have any outstanding tasks at that time, they will all be marked as "incomplete".

So, we should save our final report for when we've completed everything else, then?

That's the tough part... You have to submit your final report at the end of each term. In fact, if you're late the ratings of the R&D Division will drop. I need you two to keep on the ball.

So, whether we choose to work on tasks until the last second or report earl, we need to report in.

Once you've submitted your final report, I'll give you new tasks for the next period. So keep completing your assignments, and report to me every now and then.

Got it. What should we do now? We've completed our big job for this term...

Until you make your end-of-term report, you can do as you please. Roam about, or work on Synthesis.

Um, about that... It seems like the cauldron's a lot for me to wrap my head around so quickly. Would it be possible to bring in equipment from Central City? I can't keep making Escha do it all.

I guess I didn't do a great job of explaining it... It is really hard, when you think about. Knowing what chemicals to use, what order to use the materials, how you make good items, and knowing how to stir... My mother taught me a lot more than I ever thought...

Hmm... I see. Well, give me a list of all the equipment you need. I can't promise that I'll get you everything you want, but I'll see what I can do.

Sorry for the trouble...but it would do wonders.



Really!? Yay!

That was a pretty easy task. If we couldn't do that much, I'd say we were in real trouble.

I'll give you general feedback on your work at the end of the term. Until then, you're on your own.



I agree... I'm a little fatigued myself. That was quite an assignment. Still, I'm glad Marion thought we did a good job. It's always a good idea to make a good first impression.

Ah...! Was it my fault? Did I stress you out!?

No, that's not what I meant. You did really well. It's just... I was a little worried.

Worried...? You were, Logy?

I thought everything would itself out at first, but when push comes to shove, you never know... When I came here, though, everyone welcomed me so warmly, and we finished our task, so I... I think I'm confident that we can do reall good work together. That's why I'm relieved...

...Me, too! I wanted to work hard for everyone, but I wasn't sure that I could... But you and Brother are so nice and supportive, I'm so relieved.

Ha, so we were both worried about the same thing, huh?

Looks that way... If you ever have anything on your mind, please don't hesitate to tell me. I'll do my best to help.

Same here; you can lay your worries on me. I think we'll be spending a lot of time together. Hah, well, we still have some work to do.

Right! Let's do our best at everthing, no matter what, and help everyone! But I'm hungry now! Let's head to Duke's! C'mon Logy!

Yeah, good idea... My new life starts now.


Atelier Escha & Logy Attract Trailer
Music: The Way of Heaven and Earth

















Sylphid fucked around with this message at 02:45 on Oct 7, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Serious Frolicking posted:

Huh, I thought that the canon ending was the one where Nio went along with Ayesha and Keith?

It was, and that's why Nio is in Colseit in the first place. We'll be hearing about what's bee going on with Ayesha more in the future from Nio.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Solle is a dude. Say what you will about Hidari's art, but he / she doesn't go for the effeminate look very often. Ayesha didn't have any character designs like that, and there's only really one character in this game who is even slightly effeminate-looking. Though, in his case, being very flamboyant is kind of his thing.

Also, my apologies for the slow pace of the updates so far. My job doesn't leave me a lot of room to work on updates, since I get home very late at night, and for my own reasons I like to show up at work early. Weekends are the only real time I have to work on updates for long periods of time, and luckily, I'm close to posting another one. So, please be patient waiting for new updates.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Part IV: The Lonely Road and Village



Well Escha, we're done with our first assignment. What do you want to do now? We've got about three months until the next big assignment.



How about we go to the Old Highway? I've never been there myself, but there used to be a big town there, with trains and all sorts of machines that could deliver materials to and from Colseit, but it was abandoned when the air trade became easier than the land trade. It's possible there's still a lot of materials we could use there!

Hm, that's a good idea. A lot of our additional assignments have to do with the Old Highway. And, that sounds really interesting. Awin should really like going there, too. Sounds good to me. It would also be a good idea for you to learn how to fight more and do more syntheses. Let's get started.



More Crafts will really help! Hey, where's Logy?



It's a chitty confirming our operational stipend.

I see... So that's how we receive our expenses, huh?

Yeah. As long as we remember to apply for funding, we'll receive it right away.

Right! But... When we're out on long expeditions, I'm afraid we might forget to pick up our money.

When that happens, they'll hold on to the cash for us. There's no need to worry about losing it.

Oh, that's good. We'll always be able to get our expense money sooner or later?

Right. Once it's divided up, let's double-check the details and make sure we receive our payment.

Gotcha...and if we spend too much, we'll be in real trouble until our next payment, right?



The report looks really detailed...I've identified various categories we'll be paid under. The column on the right side of the page is the summary of everything we've done, and how much we'll be paid for the month.



Hmm...so, if we do more outside of town, and we Synthesize more, the more we'll get paid?

Well, yes, but don't forget to do assignments and increase R&D's rating. The more we do, the more we get paid. Just keep that in mind for the future.



I'll be keeping all the reports in here, so if you want to check at any time, they'll all be right here after I receive the money and report from Marion.

Sounds good! Shall we go see Solle? Marion said she had some reports she gave to Solle and needed him to review some spending documents.


Sweets and homunculi

Heh, excuse me. I was taking a little break. ...Do you mind doing this while I eat?

This guy really seems to like his snacks... It's not a probem. Sorry for catching you at a bad time.

*munch* For starters, please tell Marion that I've received her application. However, also let her know that for requests like this, she needs to give me more time.

Okay... Those snacks look delicious.

Oh, they are, but you can't have any.

Aww... I just wanted a little bite.

It's kind of surprising that you'd have snacks like those, Solle.

My brain doesn't function if I don't get these, which is why I make a lot of them on weekends.

You mean, they're hand-made? Wow... They look really high-quality.

Yes, it's something of a hobby of mine. Perhaps you'd like to join me sometime?

Really? That would be amazing! I look forward to it.



Huuuuh? That's so mean...

Hm... But if you insist, I suppose we could exchange terms. The truth is, the number of requests we get from citizens is overwhelming the staff we have.

Hm... It sounds like it's a lot of work just assigning the tasks.

Yes. That's exactly why I want the two of you to take care of the easy ones before I filter them through.

So... In other words, you want to give us more work?

Think of it as you helping me out. Of course, I won't force you to. Nonetheless, I'm sure it certainly won't hurt your department rating. And I'll even share my snacks.

Ratings aside, our only reward from you is snacks...? This sounds like a child's chore to me.

Logy!

Now, now. I'm not saying I'll give YOU any snacks. This is just how I pay people in Provisions, you know?

This is...their pay? Isn't that...?



And, since this is their currency, you two will now be able to give them simple requests directly.

So that's why...I need to Escha what Solle even does after this... I see... So we can ask them to do things other than resupplying our items. I'd say that's worth it.

AND it will help with our ratings! We'll do it! Please let us!

Ah, but the homunculi have their hands with a large order, and I can't send any your way. But, the moment their hands are free, I'll let you know, and I'll give your orders priority.

It's a shame we can't use them right away, but I understand... We'll try it when we have the time.

Wait a second... I just realized that if we us all the snacks paying them, I won't get any!

Maybe I should hold on to the snacks. Escha has some...weird priorities...

Well, you're more than welcome to eat it yourself, but then you can't give it to the homunculi.

Awwww... When you say it like that, it makes it sound like it's a waste to eat it.

We should get back to work... Escha, do you want to check out the jobs Solle is offering?



Looks like pretty easy jobs so far... I've heard Poision Squirrels, Heavy Skins, and Green Spirits live on the Old Highway, so should probably take those jobs, since we're going there anyway.

Yeah, good idea. So, while we won't get money, we will get snacks, and apparently we need those to keep the homunculi working on our requests. It would be a good idea to do as many jobs as we can so we can get a lot of sweets for when the homunculi are done with their special order. Plus, every request we do will increase our department rating by just a little bit, and there's always a chance some of Marion's additional assignments will have to do with requests from Solle. Of course, our assignments take priority. That about sums it up, I think.

So Escha, I'm just curious: what does Solle do in Provisions?


Hm, the way I heard Marion tell it, Solle is responsible for managing all the funding for Colseit's different departments. Before any of the departments can get any money, they have to submit funding requests through Solle, who passes them on to Mr. Grumman, who gets the money and passes the money back through Solle to the departments. Solle is really strict, and won't pass on anything that's not perfect. One time Marion passed along some funding reports, and Solle tossed them all in the trash. I still wonder why he did that, since Marion's reports are usually fine. I've never asked her why...

I see. So Mr. Grumman gets the money from Central, and he has to give the money to the departments so they can do their work. It's an efficient system to keep everyone happy, and to keep Central well aware of what's happening even out here in Colseit. Escha, I'm going to start getting ready. Do you want to join me?

No, I think I'm going to go talk to Clone a little. I started this job a month ago, and I haven't really got a chance to talk with her privately about it. I'll be along soon!

Okay, see you then.



It's pretty busy, but it's fun, too! Everyone I work with is so kind to me! What about you, Clone? I was helping you with the apple orchard before, but...

No, there haven't been any problems at all. In fact, I think our efficiency has increased slightly. Before, we would have to trim all the branches you damaged, and clean up your messes in the tool shed. Now, we can use that time towards our principal work, which improved our overall output.

Ugh... I... I see... That makes it sound like I was in the way...

That being said, there are of course times where I wish we had an extra hand. I find myself asking for you without realizing that you're not here anymore.

Ahaha, me too. Sometimes I just feel like calling out to you for help while I'm working.

My oh my, habits are interesting things. Once engrained, they are very hard to forget.

We were always together before, so being on my own, now...is actually quite difficult and strange.

It was your decision to suddenly go work for the government branch. You gave us no warning at all. I assumed you were going to continue working for the orchard, so I was most surprised.

Hmm... Well, it's not that I don't like this work here, but... I though tit would be better to use the alchemy Mom taught me to help as many people as I possibly can.

Milia never seems to concern herself with such practices, so it is strange to hear you say that. Using alchemy for the sake of others... I think your purpose is virtuous.

Really? Hehehe...

Nevertheless, I will say you are still far from being of any use to anyone else.





I-I-I-I know that! You don't have to worry...!

Are you sure? Both you and Milia would say you listen, only to ignore my advice moments later. If you keep up this behavior, I think I will be dissatisfied with our current arrangement. Perhaps we should arrange some time for you to train and study more, once you're done with your work...?

U-Umm... I'm actually kind of busy with my work right now, so that might be a little difficult...

My oh my, that's a shame. I thought I might be able to take care of you. It has been a while...



Clone can be really hard on me, but she really is like my mother, you know. She always wants to look after me, but I always wanted to do something great with alchemy. It's the only thing I really have to remind me of my mother...she stayed up late in the night telling me about formulas, stories of past alchemists, and I would always fall asleep when she started telling me about mixtures and chemicals... They're precious memories...



Did you have a good talk with Clone?

Oh...Oh yeah! She's always scolding me, but she really does want to get better at my job. Of course, Clone never leaves Colseit, so she can't help me outside town. That's why I'm relying on you, Logy!

Of course. I'm here to do whatever I can to make sure this job is a success.



To get to the old train tracks, we need to pass through the northern road. This is a long road that originally led right into Colseit, but it's been long abandoned.



Did she...? I don't recall anything specific...

I think it was something about being as detailed as we can on our investigations.

More detail, huh? What exactly does that entail?

I don't think we have to think about it that hard... Just do whatever we can on our missions. We'll need to be cautious when investigating monsters, though. We could get an unexpected surprise.

Y-Yes, I'll be careful. Or rather... I hope we never have to fight one.

She wasn't forcing us to do things we can't do, so if we're unsure, we can put other assignments first.

Yeah. Let's just keep trying to think of new things we can do!

At any rate, we just need to be more proactive about getting things done. I bet we'll get used to it.



Music: Dreadful Space

As time passes, there's no telling what can happen. Before we leave an area, we should thoroughly investigate it. You can never tell what will happen before it does, though...



I really need to ask Logy how he does that with his sword... He can throw it at an enemy, then it flies back and he can catch it! How does he do that?!



Escha...there's something here. I'm sure we can find something hidden here...

Wow, you're right! Look on top of that train!



It's a Colseit Fiber! You may not know it, Logy, but Colseit is famous for its clothes. The fibers made in Colseit are sent all over the world. Maybe you've even seen them in Central. A strong fiber like this can definitely be used to make good clothes in the future. We should hold onto it.

Yeah, good idea. ...I guess the people in Colseit are very resourceful...



This looks like a checkpoint of some kind...

You're right. Anyone traveling on the roads through this place had to pass through here. Central City was managing the roads, I think, until they stopped working on it in favor of the airship trade. I like flying a lot more than walking, that's for sure.



Escha, be very careful with Heavy Skins. Their claws can easily tear through even the strongest shirts, and while they don't have much stamina, they are definitely harder than the Hamsters we've been fighting so far. You can use me or Awin to protect you from the enemy attacks, and use Crafts to damage them a lot more than your staff can. Just stay calm, and you can do it.





Logy, let's make sure we find all the materials we can! Keep your eyes open really hard now, because I want to find some rare materials. I can smell them!

Okay... (Escha is strange, but she does have good instincts. There's definitely better materials here than what we've found so far.)



It's been a long time since this road was really used very much, but you can definitely see that there used to be a lot of people living here. I'm sure we can find some great stuff here at least.



She's right... Escha, come check this out. I found an old document inside one of the barrels.



What? Oh, it's about an accident during an airship construction. Hm...airships are usually only constructed in Central. Logy, do you know about this?

Ergh...! Uh...yeah, I've heard about this before. It was a pretty famous disaster, where they had to close down a lot of the research facilities and a lot of people ended up with pretty serious burns. Come on, let's just keep going for now.

(Logy got really scared when he saw that. I wonder why?)



Escha, after we finish our investigation here, why don't we head back? The Basket is getting pretty full, and I want to get started on our first real report of our activities outside of town. Plus, we've got a lot of valuable information about this area, and I'm sure Marion would want to know what we've been doing since we completed our assignment.

Aw, but we've come this far. Come on, I only want to find a couple more areas: the end of the train tracks, and an old campsite nearby. We might find some even better materials.

Okay, okay. Couldn't hurt to keep looking around, I suppose. Just remember we don't have a lot of Crafts left. If we get in trouble, remember we can always run away.



See? I was right. It's always worth doing a little more than you might want to, especially when it comes to alchemy! There's all kinds of ores around here.

Is there an old ore vein nearby? That could explain a lot about this area.

Oh...oh yeah! That's a big reason why no one lives in this town anymore...monsters started showing up, and they couldn't find more ore in the mines near here. No one knows why the monsters started showing up, though.



I'm sure Awin likes this kind of stuff. It's just amazing how quickly the village around here dried up. Colseit was lucky... I can't imagine how many other towns and areas around here have had the same thing happen to them. Could this be...

Logy, why are you just standing there? Let's go!



Wow. Escha, I'm impressed. You've gotten a lot better at anticipating when enemies would attack. I'm sure Marion would be happy to know that you'll be safer on the road with the skills you've already built up. Like I said, you just have to get used to how monsters behave, and when you need to attack them. But for now, let's go back. I've got a lot to write about this adventure.


Little witch

Are you going out? Maybe I'll take a break, too...

Would you like to go with me, Logy? It will be a nice change of pace.

That's true. All right, I'll go shopping with you, Escha.



Katla's selection wasn't terrible, but did you see all of those silly necklaces she has?

I didn't think think they were silly! They looked really-

Heeeey, you guys. Have a minute?

Oh great...

Oh, Wilbell. Do you need something?

I was just thinking about before... You don't believe that I'm a magician, do you? Especially you, Logy. You don't seem to understand at all.

Of course I don't. You'd have to be crazy to believe something like that. I can understand why you would want to believe in things like magic, but you should act your age.

Ugh! Condescending much? All right... I don't normally show people, but I'm going to make a special exception for you guys.

You're really going to show us your magic!? I've never seen it before.

You believed her, but she's never demonstrated it... So, what are you going to do?

Let's see... I know, go gather some flammable paper and other stuff I can burn around here.

Why do we have to-

Just go bring some! Hurry up.

We really don't have time for this, but as long as it proves to Escha this girl can't do magic, I guess we have time.

Um, is this okay, Wilbell?

Yeah, that's good. All right, here I go... There!



It really did...how did she do that? Can't be magic, but I don't see anything she might be using... Remarkable... Did you use some sort of tool to do this?

It's a basic fire spell, like I've been saying. It's easier to employ a spirit, but I didn't want you to say I was using a pet or something. I gather heat from the surrounding air, and release it all in one spot. Easy for someone like me.

I see... Well, I did just witness fire appearing from nowhere. So, this is magic...

Um... The magic was amazing and all, but maybe you should put the fire out now.

Oh, right. Okay, stop! ...What the? Wait up... Weird. Oh, that's why!

Hey, if you don't get this fire out soon, it's going to be dangerous.

The fire already spread out of where I cast it, so I can't control it anymore. Sorry.

Wait, so what do we do about the fire?



Whaaaat!? You can't put it out with magic?

...I'm not good at water magic yet!

Ugh, fine, I'll get some water.

Please hurry, Logy!



Yes... It was amazing...

Good, yes, we get it. Just don't do any more magic for a while, please.



Well, I guess she was telling the truth, but she's really clumsy... I hope she's not planning on using magic in town anymore.

Yeah, I have to agree... Logy, I'm going to get started on alchemy. I can see from the paper Marion gave us that we have to buy a book called Newlywed from Nio. Can you take care of that while I'm working?

Sure, I'll be right back. After I get back, I'm going to start working on my report.


Earnest merchant

I didn't want to start a conversation with her, since I was in a little bit of a hurry, but once she has her eyes on you, you just can't get away... She asked me to tell her what I think of her selection. I'm an honest person, so there's only one thing I could say... Man... You always have the strangest selection here...

You think so? I always take the eccentricity of my wares quite seriously.

Eccentricity...? Why don't you try carrying items you know will sell?

Oh, come now! It's my family motto to carry the merchandise that you can't get anywhere else! We cherish clients who have unique needs that they just can't fill anywhere else.

It's not a terrible idea, honestly, but her problem is that's ALL she's carrying. If she had more useful stuff, I'm sure she'd have more business. Do you have enough clients? I can't imagine that you can sustain a business on niche sales alone.

Of course I can... I've got one such customer standing right in front of me, don't I?

I...guess I can't really deny that.

Maybe you're right, though... As you can see, the store isn't doing as well as it could be... Not to mention I don't have the money to rent space on the main street. I can't do this alone...

Speaking of being alone, how do you manage to run your shop all by yourself?

Ah, well, my parents find and gather the items, and I take care of the shop.

I see... So everything that you have for sale in the store here...



It's mostly stuff my parents bring back from their travels. I can see the need for more "normal" items. But, you know how the crops aren't doing so well, and there are fewer and fewer farms?

Yeah, it's been a big story in Central for a long time. Reports of crop failures and deserts eating up once-pristine farm land have been all over the news for a few years now. It's a big part of the reason of the heavy reliance on alchemy to make vast quantities of staple foods, but I just wonder how long they can keep going with that... I suppose you have a point. Colseit has an amazing apple orchard, but in Central City, farming's impossible.

Right, and people from Central City buy up all the produce and general day-to-day goods... There's really no way for a small shop on the frontier like us to acquire the stock we need.

I-I see... When I lived in Central City, I thought having such variety available was a convenience.

My parents used to have a general store, too... But they had to close it down for that very reason. But I won't give up! I'm going to make this store prosper!

You must have it pretty rough, too. Well, I don't know what to tell you, but hang in there.



They're individually hand-crafted by artisans. You will never find one like it anywhere!

Um... It just looks like you took a piece of junk and put it on a string.

Ugh! You're pretty sharp, unlike Escha. How'd you see right through my trick?

I think whoever buys that deserves it. But if you try tricking me again, I'll stop shopping here.

Th-That would be really bad! P-Please take it as, um...customer appreciation! Thank you!

She may have a bad situation, but she's definitely trickier than I'd like... I'll have to be extra careful around her.



Logy! Logy!

Whoa, Escha?

I'm taking a break from Synthesis. This part doesn't need me to stir, so I just have to wait for the next step. Why don't we go talk to Nio?

Sure. I was just on my way there anyway.


More than an herbalist

You sure seem happy.

Are you helping the apple orchard with their work again?

Yes, they don't have enough people to help. And I'm staying there for free, so it's the least I can do. Also, growing something yourself like this feels very rewarding.

I know how you feel. It's a happy feeling when you harvest apples that you've cared for all season.

What do you do normally, Nio? When you're not traveling, do you have some sort of occupation?

Hmm... Well, I'm always selling medicine to make money.

Making and selling medicine is your specialty, right, Nio?

Yes. It's not hard when I can find the right herbs nearby, and I'm glad to help so many people.

I see. It must be convenient to have such a special skill.

Sometimes it's hard to sell medicine, though, so I also help at various shops. I still keep some in reserve for when I need to resume my journey.

You're planning that far ahead...? It sounds like you're on a difficult journey.

So why did you decide to stay in this town? Aren't there other places you could have gone?



Oh, that story. That drew my attention, too, when I was reading reports.

Yes, it's very suspicious! There are many ruins, but that one site in particular seems special...

Hahaha, maybe you're more of a scholar than an herbalist, Nio!

Yeah, maybe. But that's why I decided to stay in this town, while I gather more information.

That sure is an interesting hobby...

Um, I can't explain it all that well... Does it really seem strange to you?

No, I think it's good. It's interesting. If you do figure anything out, let us know.

It's actually my dream to someday go to the Unexplored Ruins! I'll support your research!

Thank you! I'll do my best. If you find anything interesting in your own investigations, let me know.

Anything interesting... I wonder what we'll find...



"Suspicious"... That's a good way to put it.

What do you mean?

Think about it. Ruins suspended in the sky, a lot of debris and turbulence surrounding it, and nobody knows anything about what's inside there. I've lived in Central my entire life, and I've never even heard about ruins in the sky. There has to be a reason why the ruins are near Colseit, and it's almost as if someone put the ruins there so no one could reach it.

Heeeey, yeah...you're right!

We need to pay extra special attention to any information about the Ruins, though... I'm still unsure how we'll get there. Before I leave Colseit, I want to go there.

It's my life-long dream! I know we'll go there!

(There's also these mysterious orchards. The area surrounding Colseit is mostly desert and deserted towns, yet these orchards are flourishing. I don't want to bring it up to Escha, but there has to be something special about these orchards...)



"Newlywed", huh? The recipes might not be much, but these are still the basics. Besides, this is an important part of our assignments for this quarter. Escha, I'll go on ahead back to the workshop. I need to get started on my report. It may take me a while to finish, because it's my first one.

Okay, I'll catch up as soon as I can!



Wow, we've done so much already...and all of the nine squares in the center are filled in! I'm sure that means we'll find out what the squares outside all mean when I turn in a progress report to Marion!

Actually, I haven't gotten a chance to see what Katla is selling yet... Maybe I should do that on the way back.



Desperate merchant

Hm? What is it?

Hmm... It's pretty rare, though, so I'm still contemplating whether or not I can part with it...

Aw, that's a shame. Well, in that case, I'll be going now.

Whoa, hang on! Back that caravan up! You're not supposed to just back down like that! The thought's supposed to grow in your mind, like a virus, until you have to say, "Oh, can I see it?"[/i]

What does "virus" mean...? Oh, right. Okay, then... Oh, can I see it?

Well, if you want to see it that badly, I suppose you give me no choice... Behold! This is the accessory that's all the rage right now in Central City: the Ruin Pendant.

Wow, it's got an interesting shape... I guess this is what's trendy in the big cities?

Ohhhh, yeah! Exactly! And I got my hands on the latest one from the city! This isn't any ordinary crap from the ruins... This was specially created from precious inheritance.

I see... It must be pretty rare, right? Probably really expensive, too...



"Dear friend"? I don't know her that well... Maybe she's trying to talk me into buying it.

What do you say? Don't you just WANT to have it?

No...? I think I'll be okay without it.

B-But it's all the rage! You're still not interested!?

Oh, I'm sorry... I mean, it's nice, but I don't think that kind of stuff looks good on me.

C'mon, Ms. Escha... You should think a little more about being stylish, you know?

W-Well, but... I don't want to spend lots of money on things like that. It seems like such a waste... And, it's not good to spend money on things I really don't want. I'd never be able to save up that way.

Ugh... Okay, that's true... But how am I supposed to run a business if everyone felt that way? Dang! I guess my patter isn't good enough. I swear, I was so close to sealing that deal...

Now, now... I'm sure you'll find someone who will buy it, if you keep trying different people.

Hmm... Really? Well, I guess I'll just keep on trying until it sells...

She seems...insincere? I'm sure Logy wouldn't like it if I spent a lot of our money, and we have to manage our expenses until the next stipend. Still, though, she seems nice, and very enthusiastic about being a merchant. I sure hope she's successful.

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 10:26 on Sep 14, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Part V: The Adventurous Mage and Swordsman



Oh yeah, Logy told me to turn in the two jobs we did at the Old Highway. I can't wait to see what the homunculi's snacks look like!



Melting Jewels Dried Taro Chips...I've never heard of those foods. I guess the homuculi really are a lot different from us. And I guess we need to work extra hard to rank up the department... We're still a long way away.



Oh! This looks like Logy's handwriting... I guess this is the first report he did. Looks...different, from the reports Marion usually does. Maybe it's because it's his first one. Well, it certainly tells Marion everything we did at the Old Highway. It was a lot, actually.



Wow, we did so much! We have time to complete the entire sheet! Let's see what else we have...
  • Equip five search items, come back to town.
  • Adventurer level 8 (we're already 75% of the way to that...)
  • Defeat the Flesh Eater of Twilight Forest.
  • Defeat the Scissor Beast of Twilight Forest.
  • Gather Water from the town entrance for 10 days.
  • Use the Support Guard in-battle (it's good training!).
  • Alchemy level 8 (also pretty close!).
  • Make a Craft with the Bursting Effect.

Looks like a lot, but I'm sure we can do it! We should probably head for the Twilight Forest next. I have to tell Logy about what Marion gave us!




Whoa, Escha, where did you get that book?

Oh, Ms. Marion gave it to me! When we complete the inner 9 tasks and make lines from one assignment to the next, she'll give us special bonuses, like recipe books and more money!

That's interesting... I didn't know that. It could certainly help. So it also looks like the rest of the assignments appeared?

Yes, and the report you handed in was really good. Marion's already registered the progress we've made toward two of the new assignments. See?

Yeah, I do... Good, looks like I'm getting the hang of it. Defeat the Flesh Eater and Scissor Beast. The assignments relating to alchemy I can't really help you with, but going to the Twilight Forest for now might be a good idea. What do you think?

Wow, that's just what I thought! But first, I want to try making a bomb.

Okay. But be careful. The bombs in the book are designed to be made in a very stable way, but still...



First, I need to make some paper to stabilize the bomb. The quality of the paper is important. I can make the bombs more powerful if I have stronger binding materials, but it looks like I can only make a Zettel right now. That's okay.



Um, Escha...you probably shouldn't have used that Earth Root. The cost is really high to add it to this synthesis. You can still keep going and make the Bomb, but it probably won't be very good...



Yay! I made my first Bomb! Wait, should I be happy about that?

I think so. It's pretty impressive to make explosives with alchemy. Of course, it's not a very powerful Bomb, but it is better than the Crafts we have. We should bring it along to Twilight Forest.

Yeah, I guess so... Hey Logy, can you pass me those books to your right?



Hm...these books look like they contain some tricky alchemy methods. Are you...?

Yeah! I've definitely gotten better with alchemy. I can try some new things now, like using the elements of each item in syntheses, or adding materials in any order I want... I think we can make even better stuff now! And, we have to let Marion know about my alchemy progress!

Yeah. Can you show me how the element system works? I've tried reading about how to do things like that with a cauldron, but I still don't know how it works in practice.

Okay! I'll try making a dessert to show you how.



The ingredients I've added, I already know the elemental properties of each. The Taro is Earth, the Apple is Water, the Fairy Soul is Air and Water, and the Clean Water is Water. As long as I don't go over the Cost, I can add elemental points on the little chart I have next to the cauldron. By drawing out the power of each element, I can change the synthesis. Each element has something it can do to the item: Fire can draw out powerful effects, Water can transform into any of the other three elements, Wind can change effect values and the quality of the item, and Earth can increase the quality of the item.

Of course, each element can do a lot of special things, but I still need to improve my alchemy before I understand them.




This is a list of things I can do to the synthesis with the elements I have available. The higher the elemental values, the more powerful skills I can use. That's about it.





Wait a second...

Is something the matter?

What did you just make? It looks like an apple tart.

Yup! That's exactly what I wanted to make. I think I did a pretty good job with this one!

Escha, you know how to cook, right? Why are you using alchemy...?

That's because... Logy, I just realized something.

What's that?



So...?

But it's so much work to have to cook everything whenever we want to go explore... And then I thought, if Provisions is supposed to keep us supplied, and as long as we have alchemy...

Don't tell me...



Are you serious? You're twisting the rules to use the homunculi as your personal chefs!

I know, isn't it great!?

I don't know what's worse here, but your logic or your sweet tooth... Yep. Escha definitely has weird priorities...



Oh, Logy! I'm glad you're here. I made some Mixed Lubricant for some future [Fuel] syntheses. It's a pretty powerful item for synthesis, because it can draw out a lot of Fire power for the item!

Looks like you're getting better every day.



What's amazing? You mean the cauldron?

Yeah. I said it was impossible, but at the same time, I can't be here and not study it, you know? I'm going to do a little research and see if I can figure out how to use it, too.

Really? Well, you might be able to, if you tried. So, what do you think? Do you feel it's possible?

Not a chance. I guess mimicking what I've seen you do just isn't good enough. Escha, how did you learn alchemy?

M-Me...? Um, I was so young, I honestly don't remember. And it wasn't really being taught; I was just copying what my mother was doing.

You figured out how to do it as a child... It has to be simple, right?

H-Hmm... I guess it's a little hard to explain... You know how you stir the contents of a pot when you're cooking?



Huh?

So, maybe it's not going really well for you because you don't know how to cook in a pot! I had to practice going around and around and around and around a lot!

Uh, do you think you could take teaching me a little more seriously?

Um... I WAS teaching you seriously. That's how I learned it from my mother, anyway... You add the materials until it feels right, and then you stir it...until it feels right, too!

Wow. That's very specific.

...Um, is it really that hard to understand?

N-No, I think it's my problem that I can't understand it. Don't worry about it. Why don't you show me again when we get another chance? I'll watch you Synthesize something else.

Got it! I'll try to go real slow so you can understand, too!

I guess synthesizing with a cauldron is a lot more complicated than I first thought... How does she know what feels "right"? I don't know yet...

Logy, I'm going to take a break. Want to go with me to Duke's?

Sure. Let's get something to eat.


Simple woman

Just now, actually. I was going to report to Marion...but she appears to be absent.

She's probably in a meeting. I could go look for her if you want.

No, that's not necessary. She should be back soon.

Okay. By the way, what kind of work are you always doing, Linca? I want to talk to you more, but you're almost never here.

Mostly eliminating monsters, as well as searching for wanted criminals when we get information. There has been a lot of monster activity in distant areas recently, so I get assignments to kill them.

Criminals? I don't remember Marion saying anything about that... You sound less like a government official and more like a full-time swordswoman.

I don't understand what you mean by "full-time". I've been a swordswoman since I was born. I know only the sword. Therefore, I determined that the best way I can contribute is by putting it to use.

So that's why you aren't in town very often. Sounds rough...



Marion is opposed to it because she says it's dangerous, but this is the only thing I can do.

I suppose that if we don't produce any results, then our department will lose face...

Marion was very happy that you two joined our ranks. I'm also very grateful that the two new hires were both assigned to our department.

Haha, I'm not sure we're making much of a contribution just yet.

There's still a lot I don't know, so I would be glad if you could teach me some things.

I'll probably be out of town very often in the future as well. But contact me if you need something, and I'll make it a point to rush over from wherever I am.

Heh, thank you. Do your best with your work too, Linca.



Not even I can stop her when she gets mad...

I think I know what you mean... We'll be careful.

What does THAT mean...?



Well Logy, do you want to head to Twilight Forest?

Sure. I want to see how powerful those Bombs are, anyway. Marion said the Flesh Eater and Scissor Beast are near the abandoned village deep in the forest.



Escha, watch out!



Music: Fulcrum

That's a lot of enemies... Here I go!



Bombs can be really dangerous...but I'm glad I have them here...



Very impressive, Escha. That was a dangerous group, and that Bomb did a lot of damage.



The Scissor Beast can be dangerous, but as long as you guard its attacks, you should be okay. And, there's only one of them. This should be easy. Actually, I want to try something I've been practicing in secret...











Logy...that was amazing! How did you do that!?

Heh. I can explain later. For now, though, I think we should head back.



Oh, it's our second stipend. Looks like we're doing pretty well!

Yeah. Hey Escha, Wilbell said she wanted me to talk about something before we left, so I'll see you in a little while. You should probably start working on your next synthesis. I think we still need to make a Craft with the Bursting effect, so you'll probably need to look through the materials.

Okay Logy. See you later.



Well, of course. We've been living in hiding so nobody knows who we are.

Your outfit speaks otherwise... But it's amazing the secret isn't out. Regardless of how much like a fairy tale it seems, I'd think Central City would have some information...

Hmm. I wonder. It does seem strange that they wouldn't know, no matter how well we hide. Maybe there's somebody secretly pulling some strings in Central City? I don't particularly care.

You don't care? It sounds like a very important part of keeping your big secret.

I'm keeping the secret, so I'm fine. As long as nobody else is leaking information, we'll be okay.

So there are other magicians out there besides you?

Maybe. My family's always been magicians, but I don't know anyone else. Even if there were, I doubt there would be very many. I've never met one.

I guess it's the same as us alchemists not knowing how many of us are out there in the world.

Exactly. But I'm sure there aren't a lot. Magic power is passed along in the blood, so if the family line ends, magicians would disappear.

Hmm, so that's another factor.



And some of those people can if they train hard enough, but it's a rarity.

I see... Sounds like you have it pretty rough, too.

When you look at it that way, alchemy sounds really easy. It's all in your books, and anyone who understands it can do it.

Now that you mention it, that's right. Alchemy sure is convenient if you think of it like that.

Yeah, but that's the danger of alchemy, too. Anybody who wants to use it can, if they learn how. Magicians are in hiding to make sure magic isn't misused. Lately, everybody's been using alchemy. The chance of someone using alchemy to do bad things is greater.

...Yeah. We need to be careful so that something like that doesn't happen.

Well, there's no way you could beat us magicians if we got serious anyway!

...Yeah, yeah. We couldn't beat all you magicians.

Hey, are you mocking me? I'm really powerful, you know!



She may be young, but she's smarter than she looks... Hm...

Did Ms. Wilbell tell you something?

Yeah, we were talking about magic and the fact magicians like her are in hiding. I still don't know how she can call herself "in hiding" when she's wearing clothes like that, but when it comes down to it, alchemy and magic are similar except in one important way: not everyone can do magic, but everyone can learn alchemy with the right amount of study.

Well, yeah, but isn't alchemy a good thing? Shouldn't more people learn it?

I don't know if that would be for the best... Anyway, did you find out how to make a Craft with the Bursting effect?

No, not yet... I just know I had a book around here with the effects for Crafts written in it, but I just can't remember where I put it...



Is this it?

Oh yeah, there it is! Thanks Logy. But, hm... How do I get the Wind effect? None of our materials are very good for that.

Aren't the Spiky Buds and Charcoal Pieces Wind-elemental? That should be enough.



It is! Where did you get those Charcoal Pieces?

One of the Green Spirits at the Old Highway dropped them. It seems you overlooked them, so I decided to pick them up. One thing you have to remember with alchemy is that you can't take anything for granted.

Ehehe...right...



Wow Logy, that's the best Craft we've made yet!

It looks like we're about done with all of our assignments for this quarter.

Really? That means we can do anything we want!

Yeah. Do you want to try and go back to the Old Highway? I might be able to show you a few things about gathering materials.

Heh heh...sure...



So what am I doing wrong, Logy? What kinds of things do you look for in the field?

Well I...





Escha, get ready!


Great battle



Music: Don't Panic

So these things are still around...

Lo-Logy...what are we going to do!?

Just stay calm. It's not as strong as it looks.





Escha, your staff is too weak to do any real damage to it. Focus on using items and supporting me and Awin.



Seems it's mostly focused on long-range attacks and using its massive weight to gain an advantage. As long as we can overwhelm it, we can win.



Logy, I can't keep going...[/i]

Just hang in there!





I'm feeling so much better! I can keep fighting!

Good, because it's still coming!







Music: Beyond the Light

Logy...what was that?

That...was a slag. A creature created with alchemy that follows a pre-programmed set of orders. Slag technology is fairly advanced, but not many are made these days. Nowadays you mostly find them near ruins. I guess it's not a big surprise to see one around here, but a slag of that size is certainly unusual. I've heard reports of those kinds of slags appearing every now and then, but...

Logy! We're going!

You'd think she'd be more careful after something like that...





Alright. I've turned in my report to Marion. I'll keep a record of any journeys outside of town, but as far as assignments go, we've completed all of them. What do you want to do now?

Hm...there's still some alchemy I need to complete before we end this assignment. This was just our first one, and it's only going to get harder.

Okay. That sounds like a good idea, plus, I want to see cauldron alchemy in action more.







Hm...

What is it?

I...kinda wanna fight more slags. We fought that big one a couple weeks ago, but I'm still really confident! I managed to beat a giant monster!

That was only because me and Awin were there, but I won't stop you. I'll get ready to go.



Music: My Name is Legion

I know you're getting better, but me and Awin are here to help you. You don't have to fight everything yourself...



Let's do it!



Logy...I think I'm going to take it easy...

drat!



These slags are really aggressive... Where are they all coming from?



Escha, you can get up now.

Is...is it over?

Yeah. Me and Awin took down all of the slags. Come on, we need to get back to town and make sure your injuries were nothing serious.



Oh! I wanted to see Brother working at the air docks today! He said was going to be doing some really interesting work today!

I guess it's a good thing sometimes she's so energetic.


Clumsy mechanic[/i]

That was, um...just a sudden impulse on my part...

Who does THAT on impulse!? Thanks to you, MY head was on the chopping block!

I-I'm really sorry about that, Heizman...

See, I think you've got talent, but you don't have to go out of your way to do crap you don't have to! Please, just do the work that we tell you to do. Got that!?



Whoa, when did you kids get here...? Sorry you had to see that.

Did you do something again, Brother?

W-Well, yeah... It's not that I did it. "again", more like I keep on doing it... heh heh.

What is it this time...?

I was sent to take care of a house with a clogged chimney, but...uh...something happened.

Wow, the Maintenance crew has to do stuff like that, too?

You'd be surprised by how many requests for structural repairs and renovations we get there. It's not as important as your assignments, but it's still work that needs to be done. I like it...

Why was he so angry at you, then?

Um... Yeah, the chimney was an easy fix, but we've been getting a lot of these calls lately...

Now that you mention it, I think our chimney gets clogged a lot, too...

That's because trash and crud get stuck in the mesh that's supposed to keep birds and bugs out.



"Modified..." In someone else's house...!?

Yeah... Trash wasn't getting in, but smoke wasn't getting out, either... You can see the problem. Obviously, the owners complained, and Heizman took the heat for me. Man, the things I put up with.

Didn't he get mad at you for something else a lot like that...?

This is a common thing with Awin? It sounds to me like it's Heizman and the people who live in that house who had the problem.

I guess I need to figure out a better airflow system. Maybe if I went for more of a diagonal...

Awinnnnn! Heizman just yelled at you for this exact thing! You have to think about what you did!

Don't worry, leave it to me... I'll get it done right this time!

Argh! I'm trying to tell you to STOP modifying things!

Aw, but it'll be so much better! I just need to think of a way to solve that problem...

Think all you want, but you probably shouldn't put your plans into action without asking.





So Logy, what do you want to do now? We've only got 16 days left on our assignment.

I never thought I'd say this, but why don't we take a break? We've been working a lot lately, and I can't think of anything more to do. Clone told me that they need some help getting the orchard ready for picking in a couple months, as well. You might want to do that.

That's a good idea! What are you going to do?

Hm... I thought of compiling a list of things I might need from Central and just relaxing. There's really nothing more for us to do.

Okay, well, see you in a few days!



Music: Rest

Escha, I just got done handing in a bunch of new jobs to Solle. We've done about all we can, so let's go make our final report to Marion and end our first assignment period.





Is that it for our study period...? It felt really short...but somehow really long, too.

Yes. Starting today, the two of you are officially members of R&D. I'm not treating you like trainees!

We're going to have a lot more to do from now on, huh...? Hopefully we don't get fired.

Heh heh, don't worry. I made that task mandatory because it was your test. This won't be the case now. All you have to do is complete your goals. And, if you do somehow fail, I won't fire you immediately.

I-I see... That's a relief. I was worried you might give us really difficult assignments...

That said, I don't want you two slacking off, either... So make sure you're prepared for the worst.

If we don't finish our tasks, then the R&D Division won't get its funding next season, right?

That's right. Let's make sure we complete as much as we can!

Yes, that's the spirit! I see the awareness of your responsibilities is settling in. Good! Before we go into your next goals, I'd examine your previous period's work. Please pay attention.

Yes. Thank you very much.

Now, let's see your completion ratings for last period...



It was our very first job... I guess we tried super-hard!

We're still getting the hang of our work, but I guess it's good that we did this well...?

Yes yes, it's perfect! To be honest, I really wasn't expecting results this good.

Heehee, if we keep this up, I think we can finish our goals every period!

I certainly don't want to discourage you, but keeping up this performance record won't be easy. Still, I confess that I'm relieved to see this. I can trust in you two to get a lot done now.

Haha, well, we'll do our best to live up to your expectations.





Investigating ruins... I suppose that's a fitting task for a region like Colseit.

These particular ruins have been explored a few times, but Central City's sending an expert this time.

Wow... Someone from Central City's coming here?

Well... They WOULD be, but their so-called expert went straight to the ruins without checking in here.

So this person went in alone...? He or she must be really confident...or really thick-headed.

Yes, that's what bothers me, too. Which is why I want you to go to the ruins and find out what's up. I'd also like you to take a look at the deeper regions, as well, to prepare for our true investigation.

Gotcha! So we have to go deep in the ruins now, right?

That's correct. Also, there have been reports of treasure-hunting looters, so proceed with caution.

People raid the ruins for treasure...? I guess that kind of thing happens everywhere. Okay.

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 00:09 on Oct 1, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
I'm kind of cheating a bit for this update a bit, since if you start a New Game+ (which I'm doing for my Logy playthrough), you can carry over alchemy skills, which is how I made that Craft I used against the boss. Normally you wouldn't be able to make a Craft that good at this point in the game, since you won't have the PP to carry over all those traits on a straight New Game. But, it's not like it's going to make a huge difference either way, especially as we head toward the end of the game.

Regardless, my apologies it took this long for the update to come out. I have no excuse for that, and I'll try to be more punctual in the future. I'm going to work on the first bonus update next, which will be the same system I had in the Ayesha thread.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Genaro posted:

Hey man, you're doing this for our enjoyment. Being punctual is a good thing, but if stuff comes up, we get it.

But on more a more game-related note, would you be able to beat the "Tough" boss without your NG+ craft shenanigans, or is that more apple tarts than you'd really be able to afford?

It's certainly possible on a straight New Game, yes, because of something special you get on a New Game+, it's much more manageable. Besides, the hardest bosses are actually in the second DLC dungeon, which I fully intend to do. It's also much easier to do the bosses on Logy's playthrough as opposed to Escha's, and what you'll want to do is beat Escha's game, then use that to start a Logy game, which is what I've done.

Basically, toward the end of the game, regardless of the main character you'll get a superweapon kind of attack item, but what superweapon you get depends on your character. Logy's superweapon is a single-target item, and Escha's is group. On a New Game+, if you play with the opposite character, you can get both.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
To be sure, it's not like this thread has been the first of my threads with this problem, nor will it be the last. My threads have always been much more readable when they're in the Archive. But, that failure is entirely mine. I've just never really been good at encouraging discussion. A truly unfortunate side effect of the way I LP games.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Well, it's not so much I'm worried about that, as the thread becoming downright unreadable because there's so many updates on a single page. Anyone who remembers my Arland thread will know exactly what I'm talking about, like that time I had to edit out an entire update temporarily because there was like 6 updates on one page.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Wentley posted:

What, if any, are the mechanical differences of choosing Logix as your main character? Do you choose, or do you play as both?

You choose at the start of the game. Fundamentally, there are no major changes between Logy and Escha's stories, but some scenes are different and you'll see scenes with Logy that you won't see as Escha, and vice versa. Also, Logy and Escha get different super attack items toward the end of the game, but on a New Game+ as the opposite character from your first playthrough, you can have both.

For the purposes of the LP, I'm switching between main characters just to give them roughly equal screentime.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Yep. Since Logy's inability to do cauldron alchemy is part of the story, Escha handles all of that. Of course, Logy has something he can do as well, but that's not for a couple more assignments or so.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Sylphosaurus posted:

So, do Logy have DLC costumes as well or are those only for Escha? I'm just curious since it seems that the developers didn't go too far with the fanbait this time.

He does, but it's not that interesting. Escha's other DLC costume is fairly fan-servicy, but I liked the witch costume a whole lot better.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Serious Frolicking posted:

The witch costume has a kitty hat. Does it really require further explanation?

Well, Escha will talk about it in a later scene with Logy, but basically that tail on her hat is from her original character design. Apparently that tail was made with alchemy, and Escha decided to start wearing it. It sometimes moves on its own, but it's just a bizarre fashion accessory. Since the witch costume has its own tail, I'm guessing that tail on her hat is just a nod.

Edit: oh, you mean the paw prints under the brim. No, there's nothing special about the paw prints. Might as well leave the above in, though.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Bonus Update 1

Welcome back. For those who didn't follow my Ayesha thread and are just joining us, to cover the extra content the bonus room provides, every five normal updates, I'll do a Bonus Update. These bonus updates will cover artwork, the composer commentary for all the music in-game, and anything else I feel the need to put in, which for this game will probably be stuff from the anime (all the episodes had ending cards done by different artists. I will be including those).

Since this game had a ton of different composers (I think more than 10, though most didn't do more than one or two songs), instead of the tagging system I did last time, I'll just put the name of the composer after each song. Also, for the music, I'll be using the names from another site, but listing each song in the order the in-game OST gives you. One final, really weird note, is that Katla's theme does not seem to be on the actual OST released in Japan. It is in the in-game OST, but I don't see it anywhere on the actual, physical version. I'll have to record it and post it next Bonus Update. That's so strange to me. Let us begin.


Artwork:
Escha artwork
Logy artwork
Awin artwork
Wilbell artwork
Nio artwork
Linca artwork
Marion artwork
Clone artwork
Solle artwork
Duke artwork
Colland artwork
Katla artwork
An Atelier For Two
Synthesis Background
Synthesis In Progress
Atelier concept art
Administrative Office artwork
Hall artwork
Promotional artwork / box art

Music:
Promise -Piano Version-
The game's main theme. We hope you enjoy the Dusk World through our illustrations and storytelling. The piano is based on my own demo, played by the pianist Kinoshita. Thank you! (Shimoda)

Autumn Collapse -Autumn Collapse-
This track was composed to tie into the main title theme. The idea was to convey the feeling of reading an old book, with a story taking place in a faraway land. (Shimoda)

Updraft
Escha's standard battle theme. She has a soft appearance, so unlike other battle themes I created this track to convey that same softness. Rather than making an epic track, I wanted it to sound like a girl running around and bonking things. Guitar and bass were both played by Dani. (Yanagawa)

My Name is Legion
There are two factors that drive progress. One is the expectation of new possibilities, and the other is dissatisfaction with the status quo. Such dissatisfaction creates anxiety, but that anxiety can be surpassed by expectations for progress. (Kikuta)

Fulcrum
This battle BGM has a fairly standard beat, yet feels more lively than usual. Guitar and bass were played by Dani, featuring an elegant solo section! (Achiwa)

A song for a time when you're not making a difference. You're making the difference.

Don't Panic
A boss battle BGM. We had Achiwa, Yanagawa, Kikuta, and Shade all writing battle themes for this game, so I wanted to create an amazing boss theme better than any of their songs! Rock on, my Ricken 4003, Gibson SG, Hammond B3, and Minimoog! I also used a synth I borrowed from Shade. (Shimoda)

Increase the Altitude
The victory jingle made to transition from Escha's battle theme. Escha is the type who would get excited over any little thing, so I went all out. Catching an Updraft, one begins Gaining Altitude. Escha's fight won't end until the day she can reach the sky! (Achiwa)

Beyond the Light
Since this track is meant to transition from Logy's battle theme, I thought of Kikuta's tune and tone styles while composing this piece. I feel Kikuta has been a great influence on me in composing game music, and I am happy that I can continue to compose alongside him. (Shimoda)

Most RPGs, I usually just skip past the "Battle victory" theme pretty fast, but this is actually really good. I like it a lot, especially since it's surprisingly long.

Our Planet Has But One Sky
While gazing at sunlight beaming through rainclouds, I thought, "I want to write a song that captures this feeling; setting out on a journey under a sky like this." The song name is taken from Miyamoto Musashi's Book of Five Rings. (Shimoda)

Because the Sky is Red
This track conveys the feeling of the Dusk World. The flute is performed by Kenji Imai. He is a great musician who performed alongside Dweezil Zappa at the Fuji Rock Festival. He performed this piece far beyond my expectations. This is one of my favorite tracks in the game. (Shimoda)

Morning Dew Pizzicato
Escha's Atelier BGM. The light guitar / bass tune was played by Dani. By the way "Escha" is pronounced the same as "ESCA" in the Nagoya dialect. ESCA is a famous underground shopping center. (Achiwa)

Magnum Opus
A Canterbury jazz rock in 13/8 time. This theme conveys Logy's cool image with his work in the atelier. There are a lot of tunes this game with prime numbers in their tempos. The track name is taken directly from alchemy terms. (Shimoda)

Kitchen Dance
A tavern run by a gruff man. The track builds up towards the latter half, as though it were recounting one's tale of valor. How exciting! The guitar and bass were played by Dani. A very stylish and passionate piece. Bravo! (Yanagawa)

Apple Tree
The arpeggio on Dani's gut guitar has a very rustic charm. The name was taken from a sweets shop in Nagano City. If you are ever in Nagano, please stop by! (Achiwa)

Cloud Harbor
The guitar and bass were played by Dani. I wanted to convey a bit of a worn down theme, so the instrumentation was kept simple. The tempo is a little strange, but I tried to make it subtle enough that you wouldn't notice. (Yanagawa)

Pavane
Reason why peaceful tracks can deviate from peacefulness is because game music doesn't embody the human spirit. There is no true tranquility in the human heart. It's fate to live an eternal cycle of unreachable inner peace. (Kikuta)

I like this Kikuta guy's commentaries a lot, just saying.

Dreadful Space
The name was borrowed from a famous documentary. The contents were quite heroic. Once I start reading expedition or castaway stories, it is difficult to stop. (Achiwa)

Look Up at the Sky
Logy's theme. He's quite handsome. He also seems to have a dark past. It's like he's holding something painful back while acting indifferent on the surface. (Achiwa)

Tails Numbers One and Two
Escha's theme. I actually composed this with Logy in mind (mainly for his interaction with Escha), but Escha's warmth, as seen by Logy, ended up overpowering the track and it ended up as her theme song. (Yanagawa)

A Flower Blooming Nearby Part 2
Nio again. Her tomboyishness has faded quite a bit since the previous game, so I did an arrangement to match. (Yanagawa)

If you may permit another divergence, I'd like to do a little voice actor chat, since Nio is another returning character. Nio herself is voiced by Kira Buckland, who apparently also voiced Odelia in Ayesha. I did not pick up on that at all. Linca is still Julie Ann Taylor, and Michelle Ruff is still Marion. Cristina Vee returns as Wilbell (and, who I've also found, also voiced Totori's sister in Atelier Totori. I can see that, even if I haven't played Totori for about a year and a half now. Not surprisingly, she also has a ton of anime voice acting roles). I imagine, given the very good chance that Shallie gets localized, she'll be back for round 3 as Wilbell.

Anyway, Nio grew up nicely between Ayesha and Escha. Looks like Kyle was right about what he predicted for Nio's future.


Baby Bird Part 2
Wilbell once more. She's become more of an adult since last game. Wait. She doesn't seem to have changed much. Oh right, she's using magic to keep her size small. The same amount of magic power compressed into a smaller space allows for greater concentration of power. It all makes sense! (Yanagawa)

The Pen and the Sword Part 2
An arrangement of Marion and Linca's theme from last game. It was originally intended to be a jazz rock tune, but I dropped the tempo and turned it into a shuffle-beat jazz. I wanted it to fit a more adult Linca, but she has two sides. She can be quite awkward at times, but I like it. (Shimoda)

Apparently Gust took some popularity survey in-between Ayesha and Escha, and found that Wilbell and Linca were by far the most popular characters from Ayesha, so Linca's return is a no-brainer here. Marion and Nio transitioned quite nicely, but I say Linca has the best character redesign in this game. Her clothes are so ornate and fancy this time around, but last time her outfit was quite plain.

Glass is Boiling
The third installment in the long-awaited Glasses series! I don't think anybody was waiting. Anyway, this time the glasses are overflowing. Awin seems quite active for a character with glasses. (Achiwa)

Distant Memories
I tried playing the piano while imagining a gentle lullaby, and it ended up similar to the sounds of Freddie or Paul or Todd. I like the gentle feeling conveyed by these three on the piano. (Shimoda)

What Should I Do?
As the title suggests, an incident occurs and you ponder what to do... Maybe less of an "incident" and more of a minor worry. (Achiwa)

Miss, Why Don't We Eat Apples Together?
Clone's theme. I actually have relatives who are apple farmers, and since every year I go for a visit, apple orchards are quite a familiar sight to me. If Clone was there, maybe it would sound like this? (Yanagawa)

Sugary Spice
Solle's theme. I think he really shines when he is speaking to a homunculus. (Yanagawa)

Spicy Sugar
Colland's theme. I made this track to sound a bit like a man who might be unexpectedly dominated by an overwhelming wife at home. There is also a reason why the melody is the same as Solle's theme, as revealed in a certain event. Did you see it? (Yanagawa)

Rice and Meat Anthem
Duke's theme. The title seems like it should be dedicated to middle school boys. There was something like this in Yoshida Sensha's manga. (Achiwa)

Simulcra
New things are always built upon the old. Whether it is accepting or denying old ideas, the new is always born with the old in mind. The new carries the old within itself, and even if there is discord, it tries to open new doors towards the future. (Kikuta)

Special Finest Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe
An abbreviation of "Special Finest Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe". A grand arrangement of the DLC add-on BGM "Flowery Orange Pekoe" from Atelier Ayesha. The end of a development for an Atelier game is always around the season for the first teas of spring. (Shimoda)

Perch
This track has a light image, like taking a break after climbing a hill. It also seems to have a bit of Marion's image in it as well. (Yanagawa)

A Story of an Adventure in an Uninhabited and Terrifying Place
A BGM composed as the theme for an expedition, exploring numerous dungeons. (Shimoda)

Germination
The tone of the intro and drums are inspired by the Beatles. The melody was played on an Andes keyboard recorder. (Shimoda)

Milk-iro no Touge (Milk-Colored Pass)
The full version of the opening theme. The song is very catchy, so we ended up playing it quite a lot, along with the ending song, during development. Without even telling Yuu from Chirinuruwowaka, the lyrics ended up fitting the theme of the game's story. (Okamura)

Commentary for game edit: The opening theme for this game, by Chirinuruwowaka. Combined with the high-quality opening movie, some of us wondered if this really was an opening for an Atelier game. Thanks to this song and the film direction, we feel the opening is very unique and a huge success. (Okamura)

Okamura is the game's director, just so you know.

The Way of Heaven and Earth
An attempt to turn mystery into sound. A fusion where neither melody nor harmony are dominant, instead of weaving and intertwining closely together to form a subtle secret. At that time, words cease to be simple words, sounding out into a voice outstretched to embrace new life. (Kikuta)

Hummingbird
"Hummingbird" reminds me of that game Laplace... This track borrows part of Escha's atelier theme and turns it into a swing style. (Achiwa)

Rest
If I think about it, I've made a lot of short jingles like this. By the way, I'm the type who likes to keep jingles as short as possible. Tempo is key in games. (Achiwa)

That was exhausting. Well, I hope you'll join me for the next update. Should have it up by the weekend. My schedule does not allow for a lot of free time, unfortunately.

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 07:46 on Jan 1, 2015

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Part VI: The Deserted Plains and Ruins



Wow, we've already completed our first task because of things we did last time! What did we do?

Receive 10 items from Supply. It is nice that they count things things that happened in the previous assignments for assignments in the current one, right?

Yeah. C'mon, we have to catch up with everyone. I'm sure a lot of things have happened since we decided to take a little vacation!

That's a good idea. Let's talk to Solle first. I want to ask him about something.



Of course. Please give me one moment...

Do you think it'll go through?

Hmm. Well, at the very least, you appear to have filled it out correctly. Oh, nope. You've made a mistake right here, and your numbers are off. Please submit it to me again.

I-Impossib--! Oh... It really is off. I didn't notice at all!

We do our books a little differently than other departments. Even veterans make mistakes. Don't worry too much about it. Just remember which areas are prone to errors, and resubmit the forms.

Um, can't we just cross out the mistakes on this one and write in the correct numbers?

Of course not! Please go get the seal of correction from you direct superior. Seeing as Ms. Marion has somehow approved the document, it appears she, too, has overlooked the error. We can't move forward until you've been realized where the mistake has been made.

drat... No dice. I've sometimes gotten documents through that way.

If it were a simple report, I could see that happening. But this is an official branch finance document. Small wastes here and there can eventually add up to larger losses. I'd appreciate it if the R&D Division can contribute to this effort by cutting back on spending.

Ugh... We're wasting that much, are we...?

According to my calculations, we can reduce R&D's operating costs by a significant amount.



Hey... That's not true! We could do it if we tried, too!

Those are not the words of one who has actually succeeded at what she has set out to do.

Y-you have a point...

Enough chit-chat. If you really can do better when you try, then I suggest you begin trying. As an organization, I have high hopes for you. I hope you can grow sooner rather than later.

Y-Yes... We'll be back.

(He's not wrong, but...he's just really, really strict. drat.)



Is he always like that?

Yeah... Nothing gets by him. I guess that's why Mr. Grumman keeps him around. He doesn't have any friends outside the homunculi, though. You can probably see why... Oh, I almost forgot. Nio wants us to come out to the apple orchard to see how the harvest season is going.



What are you up to?

Just gathering information. I'd like to ask you two something as well, since you're here.

What is it? If it has to do with magic, we have no idea...

Why would I ask non-magicians about magic? I'm looking for powerful spirits in this area. Know of any?

Spirits? The ones you see flying around outside sometimes?

Yeah, but much bigger and stronger. It's part of my magician's training. I'm going around making contracts with various spirits.

So you do that as part of your training? It sounds very difficult.

Actually, this is probably the easiest option. I was always training by doing assignments the Grand Witch gave me.

Assignments... Are they very difficult?

Basically, they're free-range missions where I can do anything. I tried a lot of different things, but she'd never accept them.



Right? But one thing she did accept was when I made a contract with a powerful spirit. So rather than think too hard about it, I'm going around making contracts with more spirits.

I'm not sure that's what your instructor would have wanted...

Ah, it doesn't matter. Still, getting stronger by making contracts is good, too. So, that's why I'm asking if you know of any powerful spirits, or places where they might be.

Hmm, I don't know. Maybe there were some...

Oh well. You really do need some skills to find things like this. I'll search around on my end, but if you find any places of interest, let me know.

All right... Maybe we can trade information we find on our future investigations.

You know what to look for, Logy?

Not at all. How would I know where a major spirit is located around Colseit? Though, it's possible we'll find one. It's just I wouldn't know a special area if I saw it.

Right... Well, like you said, we might as well keep an eye out.





I thought I saw another customer... Was I imagining things, or do you actually have customers besides us?

Of course I have other customers! You act as if I don't have any normal customers! Why are you so rude to me, Logy?

Now look who's being rude! You just that we're ABnormal customers!

I guess even Logy can't keep his cool all the time... Now, now, now, Logy... Calm down. But do you really have other customers, Katla?

Hmm... To be honest, not really. A lot of people do come in and look, but then they leave. Some people even stop by regularly, but they just look at the items and leave without buying anything. Though it's a peculiar shop for peculiar people, so I suppose I can't really blame them.

How exactly are you supposed to make a living off that? Isn't it really bad if you have no business?

I've tried to hide this fact, but the truth is... I'm actually really poor. Our poor little household can barely scrape up enough to afford a crust of bread...

Music: Alone in a Room By Yourself

Oh no... Why didn't you tell us this sooner?

It would be unprofessional, as a merchant...to tell one's customers about our personal lives. I lost my parents when I was young, so I need to earn money to help my two younger brothers...

Wait a minute...

I-I see... Sorry, I didn't know...

No, it's all right. I can't say the same for this store's fate, though. O, fickle life... If only I could sell this Ruin Pendant, then maybe I could stave off complete starvation.

Ohhh... Hang in there, Katla! You can't give up! I'll buy that pendant from you!

Wait... Before, she told us that her parents help her stock the store. They're obviously alive.

...Ah.

...Huh?

Besides, look at her healthy complexion. That's not the face of someone who's starving to death.

C-C'mon now... No matter how you look at me, I'm obviously an ill and frail little girl...



Why, thank you very much...! Wait, you weren't really praising me, were you?

...Um, do you mean to tell me, that whole thing about being a starving orphan was a lie?

Well... Not a lie, but a story to enhance your shopping experience. I do have enough customers to eat.

Th-Thank goodness... I was really worried when you told me how poor you were.

Ugh, and I thought I had her sold...

Do you really want to sell that pendant that badly? No offense, but you're one tough cookie. Escha, you should probably be wary of any of her claims. Seems she really wants to get rid of that Ruin Pendant.

Well, yeah... But I still feel bad for her.

I guess. But still, we have our own work to do, and sometimes that involves money. We can't get suckered into buying everything from Katla because of some sob story. Especially ones that aren't even true.

Oh yeah...why do you think she wants to sell it? Maybe it's a super valuable necklace she found in a ruin that gives good luck, and she wants to share that luck with the person who buys it!

Or maybe she bought it for a lot of money and needs to sell it to get some of the money back. She's probably as careless with money as you are.

Logy!



So did you find anything new about my sister?

No. She's completely disappeared. I heard that a lot of officials from Central City are after her. It's like she's a wanted criminal.

What!? She'll be fine, right? She won't get caught...

Hmm. I don't know how she'd fare alone, but she is with that old man... Personally, I think that the ones who are mad her for such trifling reasons are being stupid. Anyway, I think it's better if you lay low here until the heat dies down.

Yeah... Thank you very much, Wilbell.

Don't worry about it. I'm sure something will happen if you just wait. Good luck with your work.



Well, I'm actually having her look for my older sister.

I didn't know she had an older sister... Why, what's wrong?

Um, due to certain circumstances, we're traveling apart right now. My sister has been doing some excessive things with the person she's with...

Really... Maybe we'll help search during our investigations. What does she look like?

Actually... I don't think she would be anywhere around here.

That's really vague. Are things that complicated with her?



Yes, of course.

Yeah, I won't tell anyone.

This has to be kept secret. My sister is being chased by people from Central City...

Whaaaat? Is your older sister a bad person?

Not so loud! Quiet down...

I-I'm sorry... But why are they after her?

Well, my sister is the type who will go anywhere if it interests her. She joined an investigation of some major ruins... But they were really old and fragile. She didn't know, and kept going further, but the ruins ended up collapsing... Apparently they were really important ruins, but they totally collapsed and nothing was left.

Even if it wasn't intentional, destroying ruins like that would put you on the wanted list...

So anyway, that's what ended up happening! She told me that I should hide as far away as I could so that I wouldn't be pursued. Sigh... I wonder if my sister is all right...

We said we would keep this secret, but we're officials too. If we find her, we'll let you know, but we definitely would have to capture her as well.

Oh no, I knew it...

Logy! You're not keeping your promise...



...What? Do you mean that we would let her escape on purpose?

I never said that. It's purely a hypothetical situation, in the case that she DID escape.

I-I see. Yes, hypothetical!

...Thank you very much! I look forward to hearing more!

(We wouldn't get off easily if they found out, but seeing Nio's worried face... I can't help it...)



Looks like the harvest is going well so far.

Yeah. It's such a relief knowing I don't have to worry about the orchards as long as my father and Clone are around. I've lived on the orchards for a long time, so I'd be really sad if anything happened to them.

Escha, I've been meaning to ask: where did these trees come from? I've never seen trees this healthy in such a remote area. And to produce so many apples is very strange, at least to me.

To be honest...



O-Oh, that's right. When should we do it?

I understand that you are quite busy with your branch work...we should find a time when you are free. The last check-up was quite thorough, so I believe the next one need only be a simple one.

Yeah, okay... Let's do this one really soon, then.

Thank you very much.

Wow, so you're the one doing regular maintenance on her...? That's pretty impressive.

Oh, um... Well, all I really do is check to see if she's still healthy, and, um...

There's no need for that, Escha. Logy is already aware that I am an automaton.

O-Oh, I see... You already knew about that, Logy?

She was created with ancient technology, right? I never thought I'd see a working one out here.

I'm sorry. Sometimes it freaks people out, so we try to keep it a secret. As much as we can, anyway.

Well, it's not that well hidden... They could have at least put a shawl or hood on her head or something... I can see where you're coming from. I mean, I was pretty surprised by it, too...

Oh, were you? You certainly handled yourself quite calmly. I had no idea that you were unsettled.

Well, you may be an automaton, but from talking to you, you don't sound different from a human being.



My oh my... Apparently it has. I confess, sometimes I am quite surprised by your plans, Escha.

The...what? "Common phrase plan"?

Clone sometimes talks kind of funny, right? I guess a lot of people thought it was strange...

Though it would seem that the people of Colseit are not concerned by it...

M-Maybe they just decided not to bring it up to you...?

Anyway, we tried coming up with a way for her to speak more naturally.

Escha came up with the idea of giving me some phrases to say that would make me more relatable. For example, the phrase "My oh my" was Escha's idea to make my speech more colloquial. My oh my... Well? What do you think? Does adding little touches like this make me seem more human?

I-I just thought that was how you talked...



My oh my, that would be overwhelming... Would I really be able to master all of them?

What should we do next... How about you try saying "Now, now..." at the beginning of your sentences next?

I appreciate the effort, but you might not want to start going overboard with that...

Logy, I'm going to check Clone and perform the maintenance. Why don't you head to the atelier and get ready for our next trip?

Okay. Actually, I'll probably head to Duke's bar first. I'm feeling kind of hungry, and I think he said something a few days ago about new stock coming in today.



Hm...? What is it?

I've been thinking lately, my tavern, well.. You know, it just feels so MANLY.

Well, it's a tavern. I don't see anything wrong with it being full of men.

That's what I mean! It's full of men! It lacks that womanly touch of class and grace.

Does a bar really need a "womanly touch"?

I'm thinking... Maybe it's 'cuz my menu's skewed toward a male demographic that keeps ladies away. So, I'm thinking of creating a new menu. Do you think you could taste a few things for me?

Aw, c'mon, Pops! Why don't you let us decide what's good or not?

Hey, I'll try anything you cook up, man!

Shut the hell up! You idiots'd eat deep-fried dog doin's and ask for me! I don't need your opinions! See, that's what I'm talking about. These are the types of customers I get, but I want...normal people.

Hey, I'm a man, too, you know... I guess I can help you, but I can't say I have the feedback you want.

That's the spirit! For now, I tried making something sweet. I'm sure to get more females in here with this.

Wow, you're really changing things up here. I guess I'll look forward to it.

Here you go! Bon apetit!



Well, pancakes, obviously. It was pretty tough to gather all the ingredients to make 'em, y'know?

You might want to look up the idea of portion control. How can anyone possibly eat this much?

Hey, don't you be knockin' my whipped cream! It's the perfect accompaniment that defines a dish! C'mon, try a few bites for me. Yeah?

Mulph... It's not bad, actually. But I'll never finish this. It's like a never-ending pancake.

Right, right? I should put it on my menu and see how the people react. Time to kiss this sausage party good-bye, and say hello to a more metropolitan dining experience.

I think your biggest problem here is with the sheer volume. But as long as you're okay with it...



Ugh...I'm full already.

Logy! What are you doing here?

I stopped by Duke's bar, and he wanted to ask me a few questions. I wanted to ask Awin how the Maintenance Division is doing, since there was that whole problem with Awin modifying that person's chimney.



Sure, easy-peasy. Let me know how many you need later, and I'll get around to it.

Thank you so much! I'll get that ready.

Oh yeah, you helped renovate our entryway... It's so much more convenient now. Thank you so much!

Heh heh, didn't I tell you that I'd be a good idea to put a storage closet there?

Yes, but could you take another look at it? It'd be nice to have a place for my important documents...

Sure, leave it to me. There's still a lot of things I haven't tried yet.



People ask us for all sorts of things, as you just saw. Most of this facility is pretty dated. And it's not like we can knock down the whole place and rebuild, so I'm trying to make things convenient.

In fact, some of Brother's modifications have been officially approved by the branch management!

Huh... You got chewed out last time, but you've actually been getting some success.

Haha, as long as people know exactly what's wrong, coming up with a solution is the fun part.

Right... You just have to squash the problem they bring to you.

Brother generally gets yelled at for doing stuff that he comes up with on his own.

Hey, c'mon... Those people have problems, they just aren't aware of them yet! It's clear some solution needs to be made, but they just slap a bandage on the problem and move on.



Because every time we get called in, it's actually a lot of work... Do you remember that chimney problem? How many times do you think we got called for that?

I understand where you're coming from, but wouldn't they get angry at you for doing it on your own?

Heizman thinks that if we're being paid, our job is just to follow orders, but I disagree. Our job is to solve problems, not to obey orders. If we have to think outside the box, why shouldn't we?

I guess you have a point. Is it better to ignore orders if they don't get the job done...?

Well, I'm pleased to know you weren't changing that person's home just on a whim.

Heh, well... If you were to put me on the stand, I might not be able to deny it.

Really... Still, the fact that people come back to you means there's a certain demand for it...

You should slow down a little, and make sure you listen to everyone's opinions. Maybe he won't yell then?

Escha is more prudent than I thought about this. Maybe it's because he's her cousin...

Well, what should we do next? Do you want to get started on the ruins?


Yeah, that's a good idea.



The ruins south of Colseit...they're so mysterious. I've never been there, actually, but i think Linca has been there on business a few times. They're so big, too. Nobody really knows much about the people who left them, but I'm sure we can find some interesting things there.



Music: Chance Meeting

These ruins are incredible. Escha, have you been here before?

No, I haven't. It was always too dangerous for me to go, but Linca sometimes came here when she had orders to exterminate monsters. I'm surprised you say that, though, Logy. I thought Central would have lots of ruins like this.

No, not really. The area around Central City is highly developed, and what ruins there are near Central are closely guarded, so not many people are allowed to visit them. Something like Nio's sister sneaking into some ruins and causing them to collapse could never have happened in the ruins closest to Central.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot about that... What do you think about that story, Logy? Could Nio's sister be dangerous?

It's hard to believe, honestly. How could a normal person cause that much damage? It's true destruction of priceless ruins would get anyone from Central mad, but something doesn't add up. For the meantime, let's focus on our investigation here. There's bound to be a lot of materials you haven't seen before, but be very careful of all the slags around. Marion said to make sure we survey each major part of the ruins.



Oooooh! This is Phlogiston! It's a material made out of crystallized fire. It's hard to believe something this valuable would be here. It's an excellent ingredient to make bombs out of.



Escha, me and Awin are going to hunt for some rare materials. You should do your best, too.





On the map Marion gave us, she marked each part of the ruins as "Sectors", right?

That's right. This is Sector 1. She wanted us to survey Sectors 1-3, as well as a place called the "courtyard". Apparently the information they had back at the branch office is based on some very old data, and they really needed some new hands to help find out what's here. Wait...



Y-You're right... I wonder what they're doing?



C'mon, missy, don't get so het up. You keep makin' that face, it's gonna ruin those pretty cheeks.

I'm trying to engage you in serious conversation. Keep your opinions on my physique to yourself!

What a waste of beauty... Why d'ya have to be so uptight all the time?

We have yet to complete our investigation of these ruins. Frankly, you are a distraction.

Well, that's good to hear! You're sayin' there might be some good treasure deeper in, right?

Wha... You...! You're not listening to a single word I'm saying, are you?

Now, now, let's all calm down. We may have different goals, but we can still cooperate for now.

Let me be clear: You will not set one foot in these ruins until I finish my investigation. Got it?



Hmm...strange. My instincts told me this would've gone a lot smoother...

Now, I wonder about that... If you ask me, she just got fed up. But, back to what she said earlier. There's still treasure in there, right? Let's find another route in.

Hmm... This is true. Let us place priority on investigating this area.

You hang tight, sparkly treasures! We'll find you soon enough!

If my theory is correct, the ancient people who lived here were researching something... Then, this must be the legendary home of the alchemizitizers that I've heard about in this region! What say you to my amazing powers of deduction, eh? ...Eh? Wh-What the--!? H-Heeey! Wait for me! Don't leave me alone here!



Those might be the looters!

I know. On three, we'll rush up on them and catch them before they can touch anything else.

1...

2...

3...Go!


Don't run so fast!



Logy, I don't think they were looters. They didn't even try to take anything around here. Instead... Do you think one of them was the expert from Central City that Miss Marion was talking about?

There were two groups... I wonder which is which? Heh, we didn't even ask which gender the researcher is.



I kind of think the woman was the researcher. The man was talking about treasure, and Marion definitely wouldn't ask anyone from Central to come this far out just for treasure. The woman seemed to want to know more about the ruins, so I think she was the researcher. I don't who the two men were, though...

I did kind of get that feeling from the way Marion was talking...

Let's start by going a little deeper inside, then...



Hey Logy, do you know anything about the people who might have built this?

No, Central hasn't investigated that as much as the alchemical contributions left to us by the previous civilization. All we really know about them was that alchemy was a lot more widespread in the past than it is today. You know how you and your mother have been the only alchemists in Colseit for a while, before I came here? 1000 years ago, most of the town would have known how.

Wow... What do you think happened to them?

No one knows. But, it is clear there was a sudden break in their civilization hundreds of years ago. Why that break happened, and what happened during it, is a mystery.

That's...pretty scary.





The gathering is going pretty well...but we need to try even harder! I want Marion to be amazed by the things we found here!



Map says we're in Sector 2. Apparently this part of the ruins has suffered more damage than the rest, and it's hardly recognizable as to what it might have done. We should be careful when we get close to the ruins.

Hey, Logy, isn't that...

Music: Lady of the Mist



Someone alone all the way out here? Do you think it's the researcher Marion said was already here?

Should we ask her...?

Well, what's the worst that could happen?



Oh? And who might you be...?

I'm Logy and this is Escha, from the Colseit R&D Division. Are you the researcher from Central City?



Ah, nice to meet you. I am Threia, and my specialty is in historical research. Do you need to see my ID?

U-Uhhh, I think we'll be all right. Thank you, though...

I can understand that you're investigating the ruins, but what does "historical research" entail?

Well, as you can see, these ruins are scattered with evidence of ancient alchemy. My research is into what they were researching, and why here, in these ruins... Does that make sense?

"As we can see..."? Um... Is it that obvious to you?

You two came to investigate this area, too, have you not? How can you not see it?

We're simply government officials. We're not that knowledgable in ruins, to be honest.



When you put it that way, yes... But we only joined the R&D Division pretty recently, so...

...Either way, if it means little to you, then I doubt an explanation will be of much use.

Sorry... We'll brush up on our archeology. Have you learned anything new since coming here?

Unfortunately, I haven't made much progress. I need a little more help to fully investigate these ruins. I'm going to return to town, but i suggest you kids might try to find something of interest inside.

Yes, our boss told us to go take a look in the ruins!

Are you going to be okay on your own, Miss Threia?

Ha, I made it this far on my own, didn't I? I think going back out won't be an issue. Well then, good luck to you two.



She was really pretty, but there was something a little scary about her.

Yeah, I'm not good with her type, either... It's tiring just talking to her. Well, then... Why don't we investigate a little deeper, like Marion asked us to?

Yeah. I wonder if we'll find anything.

(It's not just that... I could have sworn I've heard her name before. But where?)



Oh! Did we complete another part of this quarter's assignment?

Yeah. Completing detailed surveys of these ruins will definitely be of help in the future. This area has a lot of gemstones. I'm sure that will be valuable knowledge to the branch.

What about that slag up ahead? Do you think that could be a part of the assignment?

Yeah. Marion's paper said that's part of the job for surveying Sector 2. Let's go!



The Flat Fish slag is known for being able to shoot powerful explosives, but this one doesn't seem that powerful.



Piece of cake!

Not bad, Escha. Let's move on to the Ruins Courtyard. This is supposed to be a pretty large area of the ruins. In fact, no one has ever been beyond this area...we probably shouldn't either until we complete this survey.



Wow, so this is what it's like deep inside the ruins here!

Are the ruins different from place to place?

Yeah. I'm not an expert on the details, but there are apparently a few different styles. You know how towns in different regions look different? I think it's something similar to that.

Hmm... I guess that makes a lot of sense when you think about it that way. By the way... You've never really investigated a ruin before, have you, Logy?

Hm? I suppose not, but...what about it?

What did you do in Central City? I don't really know what official alchemists in the government do...

...In Central City, I was mainly doing research. I don't know what everyone else was doing for sure.

I see... So alchemists did a whole lot of different jobs...

I suppose... C'mon, let's keep on investigating the area.

Yes! Let's do it!



It seemed like he wanted to end that conversation really fast...



This is a really interesting part of the ruins! The path goes on from here, but like Logy said, we shouldn't go there until we've completed this survey.



Escha, look what I found.

What is it?

It's an Ice Bomb. Not bad quality, too. Unlike our Bombs, the Ice Bomb chills the air around the impact by a significant amount. It gets so cold around the target that it can do a large amount of damage to anything near it. It's particularly effective against the slags around here. The effect isn't very long-lasting, though.

Wow! It should be great for exploring around here.



drat.

What is it, Logy?

Sector Three is blocked off by a lot of debris. There's no way we can get into the main area of Sector 3 unless we destroy some of it.

Really? I guess if we have no choice...but I wish we didn't have to destroy any of it. The debris is part of the ruins, after all.

I guess that's one way of looking at it. But, we do have a job to do. What bomb do you want to use?



The normal Bomb worked, right?

Yeah. That was a pretty good throw. We should be able to get through the debris now. Let's go. This is the last area of the ruins marked on the map.



The damage around this area is still really bad...

Yeah...but does this mean we've completed the survey?

We have. I guess it would be good to find what materials we can around here, then go back to town and report our findings to Marion.



We've really gathered a lot here! My Basket is getting really heavy...



Whew...that was an incredible adventure.

Yeah. We've definitely done a lot of good here. I'm glad Marion let us do a job like this. I imagine our job is only going to take us further and further away from Colseit, so who knows what we'll end up seeing?

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 02:01 on Oct 9, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
The choice you get when Escha and Logy see Threia for the first time isn't meaningless. If you choose "The girl", Threia will join the party first, then the cowboy. If you choose the man, cowboy will join the party first.

There's not a huge difference no matter who you choose. There's only a few months difference between both characters joining, from my recollection. Some scenes are different, but I'm just going to have Threia join first as the "official" storyline in the LP.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

wdarkk posted:

Looking back over things, how tall exactly is Linca? In the previous update she looked to be shorter than Logy and maybe even Escha, but I thought she was fairly tall.

The numbers I've been able to find are Linca standing at 160cm, Logy at 173, and Escha at 158. So, she's tall, but not especially so. Interesting you could pick up on that via the in-game models.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Genaro posted:

Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't that make Linca 5'3, Logy a bit over 5'8, and Escha 5'2? Wouldn't call her tall, although in terms of the other game characters she might be.


Also, you have the line "There's no need for that, Escha. Logy is already aware that I am an automaton." with a Logy portrait. I'm guessing Clone is responsible for that line, unless there's something Logy isn't telling us...

Yeah, I messed up on that portrait. Thanks for pointing it out.

Also, yeah, most of the characters are really tiny in this universe, at least by the standards of the real world. Maybe the Dusk World just has a different scale in height than the real world. It better, because otherwise Marion is approaching dwarfism. 26 years old and 4'11.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Not post-apocalyptic as much as on the precipice of another civilization-ending catastrophe. Keith mentioned it in a few scenes last game, but he made reference to the actions of past alchemists destroying the environment and thought that the alchemists of today were following that same path without really realizing it. In the past, civilization was all over the place at one point, hence the numerous ruins in this game and Ayesha, but the memory or knowledge of most of the ruins has been lost, so they're mostly historical curiosities to the people in the Dusk World today.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
That is one thing this game's anime laid on fairly thick, was that Colseit was a town mostly surrounded by desert and uninhabited wilderness. It's in the game, it's just not as noticeable or I think even mentioned. But, you are correct. In the first scene of Ayesha Keith and Ernie were talking about the season's poor harvests, and various other environmental problems that have been popping up.

It's basically why Keith is wandering around, because he knows where this is going and needs to find a way to stop it. And that's basically why Ayesha and Nio decided to join him at the end of the last game, too. I still like in Ayesha, though, that only one ending really deals with the overall plot (Keith's ending, of course), and the others are just about Ayesha choosing different ways to live her life. It isn't like there's some major panic going on. People are living their lives and living the best they can, in spite of the world's difficulties.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Just a heads up for anyone following this thread: I'm going to be leaving for Tokyo for 5 nights and 4 days in a week. Obviously, I have much better things to be doing in Japan than sitting in my hotel room working on this LP, especially since it's my official vacation from my job, so you can probably expect one update before next Saturday. Two if I'm especially diligent, but that's unlikely. As soon as I'm back and rested, though, I'll resume work on this.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Part VII: The Evergreen Mountain and Atelier


Miracles of R&D

What's the matter, Logy?

It's just... I'm supposed to be an alchemist, too, but I've got nothing to do, next to you. Our superiors have done a lot to take care of us, which leaves me...

I don't mind things being the way they are now. Having you around is a huge help, Logy.

Still, I can't continue laying the burden on you like this, Escha. I'm going to ask Provisions if there's anything we can do about that.

Huh!? Don't you need, like...an application to get that through?

You do, but... I'm just feeling a little useless. I have to do something about it. I'm going.

W-Wait, think about this! It's all too sudden... This isn't like you! Come back, Logy!



Oh, it's you guys... Well? You getting used to the job?

Yes... Thanks to you, it's been great.

That's good to hear. I hope you can keep that up, for the sake of the town. ...Did you want something from me?

Um... The truth is... I've spoken to Marion about it, but the fact is I can't do cauldron alchemy like Escha can. Back in Central City, I was only trained using the latest alchemy equipment, and this branch doesn't seem to have any of that. Cauldron alchemy is a bit outdated in Central CIty, and I'm not skilled enough as an alchemist to be able work like Escha can with her cauldron.

I see... Marion's spoken to me about it, but I guess the equipment here is insufficient.

I've come all this way, but I feel as if I'm hindering the project...

Now, don't blame yourself. You could say it's our fault for not fully preparing for you. We tried to put the facility together in a hurry, so it understandably lacks some elements. Now that we have two alchemists, we should attempt to procure more equipment from Central City.

Th-Thank you very much, Sir!

Isn't this great, Logy? I'm sure he'll work something out for you.

Speaking of which, Marion has a request for me, too. Did you hear the research investment's been approved?

Huh? Umm... This is the first I'm hearing about it... I think?

If you save some of your stipend at the end of each month, it should add up to a significant amount. We encourage our staff to invest excess funds into the facility to help with day-to-day activities.

So, we can use some of our stipend to improve our working environment in the R&D Department?

I suppose you can put it that way. In any case, Marion's in charge of that, so talk to her. Continue your research and complete your missions, and you'll soon have more efficient equipment.

Understood. We'll try that when we have some leftover cash.



Whoa, when did this stipend come in? It's the 20th...

I'm not sure... Oh, it must be the stipend for this month. We left so soon for the ruins that we must have forgot about it. We're making good progress, to be sure, but we have to watch what we spend, as always.



Hey Escha, Duke talked to me last month and said he was going to be putting a new dish on the menu starting this week, and he wanted me to come in and see all the female customers that would be coming in. You want to come with me to see if he was right?

Oh... That should be exciting!



But it's full of male customers. I wonder if something happened...

Oh, hello there, you two! Are you after the new menu? It's the talk of the town.

Ah, I didn't expect to see you in a bar like this, Solle.

Yes, well, normally I don't, but there's always extra room for dessert. Oh, this bar is just superb! They've created exactly what we've all wanted...

Wow, you like the new menu that much? I'll have to congratulate Mr. Duke!

Well, I'll let you two go. Hahaha, I think I need to put this place on my lunch rotation.

Logy, let's go try it out, too!

(Mr. Duke can't be happy about this...) Wait... Don't you think the place feels a bit...off?



Huh? Oh, Duke... What's the matter?

See, I added my special pancakes to the menu, right? And they've been selling like hotcakes!

Isn't that a good thing?

The sales aren't the point! I was trying to make this bar more attractive to a female clientele. Now look at this place! It's just sweaty dudes packed from wall to wall! I wanted a new audience!

Sweet smotherin' sassafrass! These pancakes are fantastic!

I could eat any amount of dessert you churn out, Duke!

Put a sock in it! How the hell are you guys going to eat!? Don't blame me if you get sick later! Sheesh... As you can see, I've got nothing but sweet-toothed men and guys who'll eat anything.

As long as it's selling, then does it really matter?

There's not a single lady in here! Why the hell do these chumps think I added this dessert to the menu!?



Ha, come now, Escha. We both know you eat more like a man. I've got to credit your amazing appetite.

...I think you actually have a point there.

N-Not you, too, Logy!

Argh, that's it! If it's not getting the results I want, the new menu's cancelled.

Huuuh!? But that's such a waste!

Nope, it's decided. I can't have any more of this!

I think all you need to do is pull back on the volume a little bit, and you'll be in good shape...

Oooh, it's so sad... I wanted to try that, too.



Well...it's not a total waste. Duke told me when we first talked about this that if he ever took the new recipe off the menu, we could have it. It might be a bit much on an adventure, but it's definitely filling.

Really? Wow...this is an alchemy recipe! I'm sure I can make this! Yeah, I can't wait!

That's what he was talking about... Well, do you want to head back to the atelier? I kind of want to see what Marion's research projects are that Mr. Grumman was talking about.

I'm interested in that, too. I wonder what they could be...



Do something about that, please!

Hey, you guys! Help me out here!

Oh, Wilbell and... Brother?

What's wrong, Awin? Why are arguing with Wilbell like that?

Oh, you know this girl? Good, then you might understand, then. I'm asking--Wilbell, is it?--if she'll help me with something. You two can help me convince her.

Um, Wilbell, what is he asking you to do?

Well, this guy seems to have seen me flying through the air on my broom. And now he's saying he wants me to teach him to fly, too...

I've never even heard of someone flying around like that. It's amazing!

Oh brother... We definitely can't tell him the truth about Wilbell.

Ahaha... I suppose it would be pretty hard to forget.

Yeah... And you've been seen by the most irritating person possible.

You know, it might look easy to fly like that, but it's actually pretty difficult. It might be easy to float, but controlling your altitude and velocity takes a lot of training.

I see... So if I train enough I'll be able to do it, too!

NO! YOU! CAN'T! You're way too old to start training to be a magician.

I need to try before I can find that out! So please teach me, Ms. Wilbell!

Please stop, Brother. Wilbell looks really irritated.

I don't think it's going to hapen, too. Just give it up.

But... I know that if I put my mind to it, I know I could fly on a broom, too...



Ugh, fine! I get it. I'll show you everything I can!

You'll really teach me?

Yeah, yeah, I'll teach you that you can't do it. And I'll show you how amazing the Great Wilbell is!

Hey, don't get carried away. What are you planning to do?



Music: Let's Go, Development Team!

Whaaat? Seriously?

Just say I'm an associate or something. I wouldn't have to be so secretive around town anymore, too. It'll be good training for me, and I'll help with your investigations. You should be thanking me.

Well, it's good to know you're helping us, Wilbell, but shouldn't you be keeping your secret better?

All right! I couldn't use anything flashy up until now, but now I don't have to hold anything back!

I'm sure nothing bad will come from this... ...Was that all you wanted?



Music: Please Hold My Hand in Yours

How did that happen?

I'm not sure... But it'll be great having a powerful magician helping us!



It will definitely be interesting...



Katla, is something wrong?

Well... To be honest, my sales lately haven't been very good.

(Not surprising...)

Are you going to be okay?

It's not so bad that I'm going to have to close shop, but I'm not making any money either. I have been selling things, little by little, and my customer base is growing...

So you're not making any profit? You should really be thinking more about the prices you put on items.

I am thinking about it! There's got to be something else I can do. If only I didn't have to pay for the goods that I sell...

Haha... Your only choice would be to go and find stuff from around here.

...Hey, that's right! I can always do that. It totally slipped my mind! Um, there's something I really want to ask of you two...

Is there something we can do to help you? Just ask, and we'll do what we can.

...Do you mean that? You'll help me if I ask you to?

Well, sure. It does depend on what you're asking for...



Wha... Are you kidding?

Totally serious. I need to find some good stuff to sell, for free, if I'm going to make any profit. Being with you would make me feel a lot safer, so please, let me come along!

No, it's too dangerous.

I agree. Look, we can share some of the materials we find with you...

Why are you two being like this...? Despite how i look, I'm actually pretty good at fighting, you know. I could go to the nearby forest all alone...

That makes it sound even worse...

Besides, how are you going to sell anything at your store while you're gone?

I'll close shop for those days. Nobody would really be botehred if I took a break. So that's settled! I'm going to find some rare stuff while we're investigating, and make some money!

Wh-What are we going to do, Logy? She's going to just follow us if we don't let her come along...

...It would be dangerous for her to follow us without our protection. I guess we'll have to let her come.

I'm even more confused how that happened...

I know how you feel. I guess the more people helping us, the better... How much help a girl like her will be, though... I can't imagine. We'll just have to see if she can do it. Escha, I'm going to make sure Katla is prepared for the kinds of adventures we have. You go on ahead back to the atelier. I'll be back soon.



Escha, are you here?

Oh, Miss Marion! I'm glad you stopped by!

So, how's it going? Are you getting used to the work already?

Uh, I'm still trying to finish up. But Logy already finished his part, and left...

There's no rush, you know. As long as you do the job properly and within the time limit. Just focus on completing the task and getting a feel for your duties, m'kay?

Yes! I'm doing my best!

Still... I don't think I gave you all that much to do. Are you having trouble?

Well, I was asked to organize the archives earlier, so I wanted to finish my reports before I start that. Oh, and I also need to clean the hall, and submit applications to Solle for the people in town.

W-Wait a second! Why'd you take on that much work!? Are you sure you can finish all of that in time?

B-But... They asked for my help!

That doesn't mean you have to agree to do it all! How can you possibly finish all of this!?

Y-Yes... I'm sorry. Actually, I'm really not sure if I can...

Sheesh... I'll help you with the applications to Solle. Don't go helping out others until you've got your own assignments finished, got it?

I'm sorry... I'm creating more work for you...

Heehee, don't be so depressed about it. I know you have the drive to do more work, which is a great thing. But you do have a tendency to go a little overboard, so just be careful with that, m'kay?

Ahaha... Yes, I'll be careful.



What's that, Escha?

Oh...after I got back, I decided to take a bunch of jobs. Marion stopped by and asked me how things were going, and I told her. She got kinda mad at me and said I was trying to do too much. So now I'm trying to cross out some jobs so I can do them all...

Let me see... "Organize the archives", "clean the Hall", "completing reports", "submitting applications to Solle"... That's way too many jobs. We'd have to spend all day working on stuff like that.

I know, I know...

I'm going to turn in my report on the ruins expedition now. You should start organizing your own work.



The assignment is complete, but we've still got a lot to do.

Logy! I'm done! I want to see the R&D research stuff!



Escha, are you okay with this? This book will help you refine your searching techniques. You should be able to do it faster if you follow the instructions in this book.

Yeah, that sounds great!

Oh, and one of the main parts of this assignment is to buy another alchemy book from Katla. I'm going to head down to her shop to get it.



Yes, let's go.

W-Wait for me! Sorry I'm a little late.

Are you really going to be all right? We're not playing around, you know.

Stop saying that, Logy. I've already decided that I'm coming with you. I won't do anything to get in your way. I'll even help you with your work.

I guess we can't help it... It's dangerous out there, so don't wander too far away from us. Also, make sure you listen to everything we tell you.

RIght! I'll do exactly as you say!

Don't try carrying things that will get in the way. ALso, if you're not feeling well, tell us right away.

Okay, okay. You don't have to treat me like a child. I know these things...



...I know you're just worried about me, despite what it sounds like. You sound like the kind of parents who get overprotective of their kids, even when they're older.

Hmm... Clone's been telling me stuff like that since I was little. I was just repeating her...

I don't think you have the right to complain, since you're the one who insists on coming with us.

Are you that worried about me? Hee hee!

...Of course. Anyway, let's get going.



Wait! ...He left! I don't think he should be so cold to you. Sorry about that, Katla.

No, no, he's obviously just embarrassed and trying to hide it. What a difficult guy.

Well, you're sure optimistic about this. Anyway, make sure you don't get separated from us.

Okay, let's go!

Escha! Hurry up!



What do you mean, "how much"? The number of spells I know? The different types?

Both, I suppose. To be honest, I don't know anything about magic, so I want a better understanding.

I'm sure it would be helpful in our investigations to know more.

Uh, sorry. I hope you're not expecting too much. My speciality is in attack magic, after all. I like taking down monsters with big explosions and stuff. I don't need anything really fancy.

But you do have some spells, right? What else can you do?

Well, I can probably do stuff like helping you search for things, or light up dark places... Oh, but searching takes a while, so I can't find much. And you could just use a lantern in the dark. Magic was probably a lot more useful a long time ago, but now there's a lot of good substitutes.

I see... If you look at it that way, magic is pretty limited.

I guess. Oh, I fly on my broom, too.

Now that sounds useful. You could use it to scout the surroundings, or investigate high places.

Will you let me ride on your broom, too?

Well... You look kind of heavy...



Is that so? You know, you don't need to push yourself so hard like that.

Just a little less, really...

Regardless, riding with two people is too dangerous. It's hard to balance it, it's really too fast. Maybe I'll give it another thought when I feel for sure that you have my back.

Aww... I really wanted to try riding it...

I can understand how she feels, but we really need to get back to work...



Pretty expensive, but we had to do it.

Yeah. Oh, Clone wanted me to start the harvest. It's something I do every year when the harvest starts. I'll be back in the atelier soon! I'll start synthesizing as soon as I get back. We have to get started on planning on our next adventure.



I'm glad I still have the chance to pick the apples...



What is with that tail? She's always had it, but...

Logy, I finished it! Logy...?

O-Oh, right... Good job.

Um... Are you thinking about something? If you need to talk, I'd be happy to listen.

You know, I've been really curious about something for a while now...

Something? What are you talking about?

That thing on your waist...

Oh, this? This is a tail!

Y-Yeah, I figured that much...but what is it for?

Ah, I'm actually not sure how to make this myself...

Huh? What do you mean by that?



I see... No wonder you look like you've been cherishing it so much.

But, it's really amazing! It moves on its own sometimes, too!

So my mind WASN'T playing tricks on me! It does move! ...How exactly does it work?

Like I said, I don't know. If I knew how to make more, I'd have fifty of 'em!

Ah, o-okay... Well, I hope you figure it out someday.

Yes! And when I do, I'm going to give one to you, Logy.



But really, how did she...? No, I've got to stop thinking about it.



The Guryun Blitz? I never thought I'd be able to use one of those again.

What's that?

Hm... Do you see the machine on my left arm? It's an alchemy machine designed in Central. There are a number of items you can put inside it to let it shoot out an incredible amount of power in a single burst. It would be easier to make the Blitz first so I can show you how it works than try to explain the mechanics behind it.

Wow, that sounds interesting!



This should be good for... Hm? Sounds like someone's at the door.


First flight

What's up, Awin? You look awfully happy...

I think the R&D Division's ratings are slowly improving. The brass is rethinking the resource allocation. And the branch manager has finally given the seal of approval, so we get to use something really fun.

Interesting...? What could it be?

Haha, you'll know it when you see it! C'mon, follow me!

What could get Brother so excited?

Anyway, we'd better follow his directions.

Yeah. I can't wait to see it.

I have to admit I'm interested as well. Let's go.



Music: The Story of the Sky, the Balloon, and the Climate Geomorphological Sun



What is this...? It looks like a very old blimp.

Ahaha... Yeah, I've got to say that this is pretty old...

Heh heh heh, you sure you should be saying that? Believe it or not, this baby belongs to R&D now!

It belongs to--you mean we can use this however we want!? That's incredible!

Wait a sec... Are you really going to fly this thing?

I've done some solid maintenance on her and given 'er some TLC. She may not look the best, but don't worry.

Now that we have this, we can investigate further away!

Exactly! I'm gonna show you how to pilot this old girl, so what do you say we go on a test flight?

A blimp, huh...? Well, I suppose it would come in handy.

S'matter, Logy? Are you afraid of heights or something?

I'm fine. I flew to town on an airship. That's how I got here in the first place.

Okay, Brother! Start teaching!

Right on! First, we're going to lift off... I'll show you what to do, so get some practice in.







Music: Kaiyuugyuo no Genfuukei










Music: Treasure

That's the first time I've ever flown... Seeing Colseit from high in the sky is way different than being on the ground.

Really? I guess it might be a lot different if you've never flown before, but my trip from Central was so long, I kind of got tired of flying. But, it's definitely true with the balloon we can investigate a lot further away from town. Is there anywhere near Colseit that you can't reach on foot that might be worth investigating?

Hm...the only place I know about is some mountains to the west. There's supposed to be a bunch of ruins there. I guess we can try and see if anything interesting is over there. After all, we have completed our assignment.

True. I'll go over my notes from the flight and make sure I know how to pilot the balloon. If it's not too much trouble, could you start working on the Guryun Blitz? If we're going outside of town, I'd like to be able to show you what my gauntlet does.

Oooh, that sounds great! I'll start working on it. I have to make a few things first, though...


Logy's skill

...Hmm.

Huh? What's the matter, Logy? Are you worried about something?

I was just thinking... You've been improving so much lately, Escha, and I haven't been every much help at all.

He has been looking really worried lately... That's not true! If I was on my own, I'd be too scared of messing up to ever try Synthesizing anything!

Well... I'm just wondering if that's okay...as an alchemist, you know? Never mind.

Hello... How's work going?

Oh, Marion. Good to see you.

Haha, I've got some good news for you, Logy. I was able to get my hands on some equipment from Central City.

R-Really!? I'm amazed you managed to do that!

The branch chief really came through for us on this one. Maintenance is going to install it when you leave.

Oh, let's go, then. I wonder what new equipment they brought for you, Logy!

I am interested... Okay, let's step out for a bit.



Hmm, push it a little more... Yeah, right there. Perfect! Thank you. ...Okay, it's all done, you two. Go on in and take a look.



You can tell just by looking at it? I have no idea what that thing is... Well, here's where my job ends. Please keep up the good work, you two.

Thank you very much, Ma'am.

This is beginning to look like a blacksmith's workshop. We could probably sharpen knives and stuff!

Heh, I suppose we could... But this new tool is actually for alchemy. Unlike alchemy that combines two items into one with Synthesizing, Training materials enhances their properties. You can combine different properties and powers inside materials, and strengthen your equipment.

Strengthen, huh...? Yeah, I guess I really couldn't do that in a cauldron, could I? This is getting interesting. Do you think I would be able to use that, too?

...I suppose I could teach you, but you really have to use your head.

...Huh? You have to use your head...? You mean, I don't just toss stuff in and stir it around?

You have to forcibly merge materials into an existing item to enhance its properties. It can be dangerous. You also have to calculate the amount of stress the item can take, or you could end up breaking your equipment.

Whoa...! There's no way I could do that! I'm gonna leave all that stuff up to you, Logy!

From my point of view, the way you Synthesize looks equally difficult. Why don't we just keep things the way they are for now? I'll take care of this.

That's a good idea... I don't think I have the dexterity.



What are you reading, Logy?

Oh, I'm just writing down the recipe notes for making standard equipment. Before I start making more complicated equipment, it would be good to practice the basics.





Ah, the Blitz Core? Let me see it.

What do you think? I built it according to the specs you gave me...

Hmm... It's actually really well made. I never thought you could make this in a cauldron.

Wow, I'm glad you like it. But what is this thing, anyway?

I guess you could call it... A crystallization of nature's power. Using this allows you to tap into the power of nature for a brief moment.

Unleashing...? That sounds so dangerous.

It's not bad if you use only a little bit. In Central City, we'd seal all kinds of power in crystal. If you use the right materials and tools, I heard that you can make some pretty potent ones... In the end, it's all a balancing act. But I think I'll be able to do lots of stuff with this one.

Wow... I'd like to try using that, too!

I wonder... It might be a little difficult for you to wield this, Escha. It's pretty dangerous.

Aw, really? If I could use it, then it'd be twice as useful to us, don't you think? But, you know how to use them, right? I'll try making all sorts of them now!

Yeah, that would be great. If you had my gauntlet, you could probably use these with enough experience. But, as long as you keep experimenting with elemental crystals, I'm sure you'll be able to keep making more variations on this before too long.

Oh, someone's knocking on the door.


Prickly people

What's the matter, Marion?

There's someone I'd like to introduce to you. Please follow me.



Hello there. Hope I'm not intruding.

H-Huh? You're...umm... The historian or researcher...?

My name is Threia. That reminds me, you two said you were in the R&D Division, right?

Yes, we are. What are you doing here, Miss Threia?

I'll cut to the chase. From now on, when you go out exploring, I'll be accompanying you for my research.

Ooooh, for research... Hey, wait! This is all so sudden!

Well, I came all the way from Central City for this... But I don't sit back and read reports. Besides, I'm still not clear what your "R&D" Division does. You research AND develop? No fair!

Oh brother...

B-But... That's our job...

...Are you okay with this, boss? She's calling out our Division for...an ambiguous name?

Threia and I know each other from Central City. She's a walking encyclopedia, and good in a fight. We're short-handed as it is, so try to look past her prickly personality and work together.

"Prickly"!? I'll remember that, Marion.

See, that's exactly what I'm talking about. When are you going to realize...

It's good to know we have a real researcher to help us! I'm sure we'll make a lot of progress.

Perhaps. My own research comes first, but the results should help you. Consider this a joint effort.



(Marion wasn't kidding about her personality. Still, she should be a good asset if she'll work with us.)



Escha, I've been meaning to talk to you about something.

Oh? About what?

Well, including us, we now have six people helping us with our investigations. You know how I told you it would be a good idea to combine our attacks to not let the enemy recover? I was thinking it's about time we tried Special Support attacks. If the enemy is sufficiently off-balance, we can probably launch more powerful attacks then normally would be available.

Sounds a little complicated...

You don't have to think about it right now. We'll try it in the field if we get a chance.

Gotcha... By the way, did you inspect Katla's equipment? What did you think?

I'm confident she can do better than I thought, but... You should probably see for yourself.



That's another request done! This bomb can really slow down anything it hits. I'm sure it'll work great.

Yeah. We should start getting ready to head out. I'll head to the docks to prepare the balloon.





Looks like getting around here is going to be harder than I thought...



Music: At the Foot of the Hill

It's amazing to find something like this way up high in the mountains... Logy, there's a lot of fruit growing around here. We should gather as much as we can.



Looks like the path to the summit is this way. These ruins are...



The monsters around here can be pretty aggressive, though.



The view from here is incredible... I'm glad we came here.

Yeah. These ruins are definitely interesting, and we're still not at the top of the mountain. Let's keep going.



There's a lot of rocks around. It's probably a good idea to bring a lot of bombs whenever we go on an adventure.

Good idea. Especially as we go further away from Colseit, the paths are going to be more difficult to navigate.



These are the ruins of an atelier!

I was beginning to think that, but you're right. This is an incredible discovery. I think I see a passage into a building. Let's go check it out.



Logy, what was in that chest?

A Crystal Ring. Interesting alchemic item, I think. I'll take care of it for now. Looks like there's a basement level, too. Careful, the passage is pretty narrow.



Wow...a cauldron. I guess the methods of alchemy haven't changed very much from hundreds of years ago.

Yeah, these ruins are about that old, considering the amount of decay. Still...it's fascinating to find such a well-preserved ruin as this one.

It kind of makes me happy knowing I'm doing things the way alchemists of the past did them.





... I'll just make sure Katla isn't holding on to the documents we find in the field...


Magic show

Escha, careful! There's a slag coming out of that workshop!



Logy, I can do it! Let's take care of this!



Here I go, Escha! Watch carefully!







Katla's coming to help. It'll be interesting to see what she does, considering the size of the bag she brought...



That was impressive.







That was actually impressive... Looks like I don't need to worry about Katla and Wilbell after all...

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 16:25 on Oct 14, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Just a cane (with a hidden boxing glove attachment). Most of her attacks come from her opening the trunk she brought with her and attacking the enemy with something in it.

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 20:00 on Oct 11, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Considering the age of the PS3, and there's been 6 Ateliers on the system so far, I wouldn't be surprised if Gust was planning to move the series to the PS4 by the next entry, maybe with a longer development time to boot.

Of course, whether it'll continue the Dusk storyline or start a new one, I have no idea. From the very, very limited knowledge I have of Shallie's True Ending, it seems that game doesn't really wrap up the overall storyline and there's more than enough room for a sequel. Honestly, even if they do start a new story, I'd be happy with Hidari continuing to do the character designs. I've loved (her? I've only seen Hidari referred to as a woman) the character designs and general art style of these games, and I hope it continues.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Roro posted:

Just finished bombing my way through the Arland and Ayesha LPs, great stuff so far Sylphid! Quick question: Will this game end in romance between Escha and Logy a la Rune Factory Oceans, or does it continue in the traditions of the previous Atelier games? Not that I specifically want romance, but I was wondering how that would colour your dialogue for the MCs.

First of all, thank you for reading my LPs.

To answer your question, if you were to ask me there's no real hint of a romantic relationship between Escha and Logy anywhere in the story, but it all comes down to interpretation of a few key scenes between them. You can maybe make the case, but I just don't think the writers really intended to make their relationship romantic in nature. Escha has a lot of respect for Logy's experience and professionalism and Logy admires Escha's dedication and cheerfulness, but there's not much beyond that.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Nope. As far as RPGs go, this is about as unromantic a game as you can make. The writers seem to have completely wanted to avoid that aspect, and it shows. The final party actually doesn't even get along especially well, since they all kind of have their own things and problems.

The closest thing to a romance I can possibly say is in this game is between Linca and Marion, and how they feel about each other is quite far from love. But, it's eminently clear Linca is basically thinking about Marion all the time, even if Marion doesn't have time to dote on Linca.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Part VIII: The Sweltering Path and Desert



Wow... I had no idea Katla had so much stuff in her bag.

Yeah, I was surprised, too. The only reason I let her come was because the stuff she had in her trunk seemed like it could actually be useful in combat. She didn't even tell me her cane had a boxing glove in it...

And Wilbell's magic was incredible, too. What was that spirit she summoned?

It must be one of the more powerful spirits she was talking about. Her magic did seem to have a theme too it... Looks like it was a good idea to bring those two along.

Yes! Logy, I want to check out the garden behind the atelier. Let's go!

Oh, wait... Your basket is too full. We should head back to town before we go any further.

Now that you mention it... Yeah, that's a good idea. Before i go back to the atelier, I want to help Katla sort out her stuff. Her trunk looked so messy.



Oh, you're back, Linca. Is there something you need?

Is there anything troubling you? I'll help you with anything I can.

No, not really. Thank you for asking, though.

Oh, I see. Understood.



I'm sorry?

Logy, please be troubled by something.

Huh? Okay, now I'm feeling a little troubled.

I was waiting to hear that! Whatever the problem is, I'll fix it for you. What should I do?

...It sounds like the captain asked you to do something, LInca. It'd help if you told me about it.

Marion? Perhaps you mean the mission I just received.

Probably. What are you supposed to do?

Marion gave me a mission to help you with anything that's troubling you. I asked Escha a little while ago, but I wasn't able to do much for her... That's why I need you to be troubled by something, so I can complete my mission.

You don't have to push yourself like that...

Logy, I'm your senior. Seniors are apparently supposed to help their juniors. If neither of you are troubled, what exactly am I supposed to do?

Why are you so bothered by the fact that nothing's bothering me? What do you want me to do about it? Oh, here's something. I was thinking I shouldn't ask you to do this, Linca, but...

What is it!? Ask me anything!

Well, could you go and buy me a snack?

Ah, an errand. I am confident in my errand-running abilities. What should I buy for you?

Uh, how about a couple of bread rolls? I'll pay you back later.

Two bread rolls. Understood! I'll be right back!

I feel like I'm the one asking for favors here. Is this really what Marion had in mind?



Escha, you're back. Has Linca talked to you about wanting to do something for you recently?

Uhhhh... Yeah, she did! A few weeks ago she came into the atelier while you were working on the balloon with Brother and asked me about wanting to help me with some reports. I told her I wasn't good at writing them, and she wanted to help me. But she wasn't good at writing them, either...

I see... (Sounds like Linca could be a problem. I hope I can just leave her to Escha.)



Wow, that's a big stipend!



Escha, one of our additional tasks is to sell enough items to equal 50 Cole. Nio said she wanted some spending money, so I'll sell some materials to her. I'll be back soon. After that, we'll head back to the mountain atelier. I want to look at the garden.



Dammit, there's some monsters guarding it. Let's go!



Lots of barrels, and some of the plant life is still alive. It's really rare to see something like this near Colseit.



More rocks. This is the summit, so that's probably all we'll find on this mountain.



Hey Logy, how many people do you think lived here when this was used?

Hard to say. But it was definitely more than one person, considering the scale of the gardens we saw. Maybe there was a large group of alchemists living here.

And they've been gone for a long time...

Well, that's only a guess. I'm not that knowledgeable about ruins, so maybe Threia could help you more about that.

I'm scared to ask her, though...



I don't think she's going to find much more...



Isn't that one of Solle's homunculi?

Well, as far as I know there's not much difference between the homunculi. Maybe one of the alchemists that lived here made this one. Seems he has stuff in his tent. Might be selling something.



Wow...that's a great selection. I don't think we really need anything through. I am interested in what the Heavenly Spirits does, but it doesn't look like it has one right now.

It looks like we're done with our investigation of these ruins. Let's head back to town.

Yeah, good idea. There's something I want to get started on.



All right, that oughta do it.

Logy, what are you doing over there?

Oh, I just noticed this area over here was a little, umm... Well, I was organizing it.

Huh? But weren't you organizing that area before...?

Well, yeah, but I thought it would be a little easier to use this if it was over here.



Y-Yes, I think it's great, actually... Umm... Logy, are you by any chance...a perfectionist?

That's, um... Well, I wouldn't say that myself... Why? Do you think I am? Everyone at my last post said that about me, too. I wonder why...

I mean, it's just... Whenever I turn around, you're organizing something.

Really? Hmm. But you're cleaning up after us all the time, right? It's just like that. Besides, isn't using a well organized set of equipment much more satisfying?

Well, maybe, but I don't think we need to move them around the place so often, do we?

It's refreshing to change things up every once in a while, don't you think?

If you do it too much, we'll lose track of where all our tools and equipment are!



...Logy, I think this falls more under "OCD" than "perfectionism". It's not that it's a bad idea, it's just...

I just don't like seeing a disorganized place to work. Besides, the government of Colseit is giving us this room. It's up to us to keep it in good shape. I just...don't like working in a messy place.

Hmm... I didn't know that. I'm sorry.

It's okay. I'll just finish up here and get back to practicing with the Trainer.



Hey Escha, let's go take at some job requests from Solle. It's been a while since we've taken a few.



Hmm... More staff? Very well, I shall give it a look. ...This won't do at all. Have you calculated your budget properly? I must say, this is quite sloppy. I'm going to have to deny your request for additional staff. Please think further ahead.

W-Wait a second...! If we hire now, then we can solve our problem with being too short-staffed...

Given the current state of the Maintenance Division, I'd say you have more than enough staff. Perhaps your "problem" is a result of you not allocating your resources effectively.

W-Woah there, kid... Do you have any idea what goes on down in the trenches, where the real work is?

That's easy for you to say. When I asked earlier about your budget, you said you had plenty of time. And now, you're telling me that a job you had "under control" needs more staff, without more planning?

Urrrgh... Dammit, fine! I'll do something about it!

That was...pretty impressive. Anyway... Um... Mr. Solle? We came to ask you to check our calculations...

Yes, of course. What's the matter...? Why are you staring at me like that?

Ah, we were just wondering...if we should have Ms. Marion take another look at it... That's all.

That would require excess work and time. Since it's already here, why don't I look at it for you. Hm. It appears there are no errors... Very well, I shall accept it.

Whew... I'm so relieved. I thought you were going to get mad at us again.



Huh? B-But Mr. Heizeman was just...!

Oh, I'll express my opinions to people like him, but I would say I was far from angry.

R-Really...? But you looked so scary.

Scary...? I had no intention of scaring anyone. Heh. At any rate, please return to your posts.



I-I was so nervous back there... I guess he's really strict to people who half-heartedly do their work.

Yeah. We should be careful he doesn't call us out... C'mon. Let's go speak to Threia. Marion wanted us to get to know her better, and we need to start planning our next adventure with her. I have a feeling it's going to be difficult working with her...



Hey, you're late. How long do you intend to keep me waiting?

Huh? Miss Threia? It's not even time yet, though.

I've never gone on an exploration with this many helping hands... Now let's be off!

"This many"? There are only a few of us.

You're too soft. You only say that because you've never gone on an expedition by yourself. Even if you find important data, you have to bring it back. Monsters may attack you out of nowhere... Imagine how much easier it would be, simply by having a few more people in your traveling group.

Yeah, I can certainly see that there would be limitations when you're by yourself in the wild.

There's no immediate gratification in historical research. That's why it's difficult to get people. With everyone so fixated on investing in alchemical research, I basically have no budget to go on.

You mean you don't use alchemy, Miss Threia? I assumed you were good at it, from the way you look.

How many times do I have to tell you? I'm just a researcher... I know how to use certain items the alchemists used in previous eras, but I don't know how to Synthesize.

That's actually a little unexpected.



In fact, most of the discoveries I bring back from my travels get taken away. How am I supposed to conduct research?

Uh... I can see why you'd think that your research is difficult.

Argh! We're still wasting time! I'm going on ahead!

Wh-Whoa! P-Please wait! We need to gather our party before we-



You're so impatient... Why don't you calm down a little before we make a decision?

She really is scary...

I'm not sure if "scary" is the word I'd use, but that's pretty close... Anyway, we have a couple fighting assignments, don't we?



Yeah. Unusual monsters have shown up in Twilight Forest and the Old Highway. A Flesh Eater has been spotted deep in the forest, and Scissor Beasts at the end of the Old Highway. We should take care of both of them, I think.

Right. Let's get moving.



It's amazing how much experience I've gained in the past few months.

It's good, right? Doing this job means getting more confidence. I have to learn a lot, too, so it's not just you.



That's one.



Another busy month. What do you think we'll do next assignment?

Hard to say. I've been trying to ask Marion, but I heard from her she doesn't even know the assignments until she gives us them. Apparently orders come in Central, pass through Mr. Grumman's office, and are given to Marion, who tells us what the job is. I worked in Central for a long time, but it's still hard to know what they prioritize. We'll know in a couple months.



And that's the other. What's next...



We've done all of them already? I thought we still had to make a Spirit Garland. I guess you made that, Escha?

Yes. Duke had the recipe book for making Spirit Garlands, so I went and bought a book from him. I guess you must have been away when I did.

I guess, but...still, you should make sure I know before you do stuff like that in the future. I have to keep track of how much money we spend.



Well, we're done with this assignment. Is there anything else you wanted to do before this quarter ends, Escha?

Hm...I need to catch up on my alchemy. I want to make a Heal Bandage and Aroma Pouch for future adventures. They'll be a big help, since the monsters get stronger the further we go from Colseit.

Gotcha. Just tell me if there's anything you need.





Oh, Logy! There is something I need!

What is it?

I reaaaaalllly want to make this Omega Craft! It's so powerful, but I don't have enough ingredients for it. I need to gather more Spiky Buds from the mountain atelier.

If it's that important, sure. Let's get moving.



Ugh...we really need to be careful. We left without gathering enough Spiky Buds. You really should be better organized, Escha.

I know, I know... I'm sorry, Logy. But, we do have enough now!

Yeah, let's get going. (The atelier's gotta be a mess by now...)



Hey Logy, I'm going to show you amazing an alchemist I've become. I want this Craft to be really strong, so here's what I'll do. I'll use the Wind Elements to divide the Mixed Lubricant, so I can add all those Fire Elements to the Synthesis. Then...



Then I'll use Power+ LV1, using three Fire elements, to double the power of the Mixed Lubricant, and then add it!



Are you impressed?

Yeah. Sounds like you've really improved, and so quickly. Once we get some better materials, I can show you how to make amazing weapons.

I'm really looking forward to that! Anyway, we don't have much time until the assignment is over. I'm just going to be practicing my alchemy. I'm getting better, but I still have a lot to learn. I think you can relax, Logy.

Actually, I wanted to go train with Linca. Marion said Linca will be back for a few days, so I want to learn a few techniques from her before she has to leave again.

That sounds really amazing!



Well, another assignment done. Looks like we're making good progress.

Yes. Let's turn in our last report and learn what we'll do next.



Is Linca still really busy right now?

Linca's out on an expedition to suppress nearby monsters... I think?

That's correct. I believe that in the past we actually had a division dedicated to keeping monsters back. But they've been disbanded, and there aren't many groups capable of responding to these requests now.

So Linca's working for another division on that mission...?

They just grab anyone who can swing a sword or shoot arrows. She's the only one from R&D who qualifies...

Yeah... It must be a pretty dangerous mission.

Oh, I'm not worried about the monsters. It's just... She's not the best around other people. She always says everything's okay, but I really hope she's not causing trouble, wherever she is right now.

You can say that again...

S-Sorry... I shouldn't have said anything.

Hmm... Well, I am worried, and I'd feel much better if she was helping with our investigations.

Well, worrying isn't going to do anything. We have to trust Linca while we focus on our own work. Now, let's look at your achievements for the last period. Hmm... This is very impressive. As your superior, I have absolutely no complaints.

I'm really glad to hear that. So, we just have to keep up our current pace, then?

You've done a really thorough job on all your assigned tasks. You did very well.

So, are we going to be doing a more thorough investigation of those ruins now?

Yes... Based on these documents, it looks like another group will pick up where you left off... With these thorough reports, I'm sure they'll have no problem taking over from here. Keep it up!

Got it. We'll keep doing our best! Um... I wonder if we'll find more ruins like that one?

Now, I'm going to give you your next assignment.



Investigate the village to the north? You mean to tell me there's another habitable area here?

Yes, it's a little ways away, but apparently this village has been around for a while.The people there have requested assistance from us. Evidently, their water supply is drying out.

(Hmm... So they're having problems like that, too...)

The water...dried up? But, how could that happen?

I'm curious what's causing it, too. But right now, we have to find out what's happening so we can help.

I hope we'll be able to do something for them when we get there.

Even small efforts can lead to big payoffs. Do whatever you feel you can, and you may be surprised.

U-Understood. We'll do everything we can!

Let's get to that village, first. I wonder what's happening there.



It looks like we've already completed one of the main assignments: invest in research. That's a nice surprise.

Y-Yes...it'll definitely help. Um, I'll start getting things ready for the trip. To the north, past the Old Highway, is a desert, so we'll need some things to keep cool. Could you ask Nio if she has any herbs that might help keep body temperature low?

That's a good idea. I'll be back soon.



Hmm... Maybe a forest nearby? I think there'd be some growing there.

There are, but there aren't many varieties there... I can't make very powerful medicine with only the kinds that are from there.

I don't know a whole lot about herbs, though, sorry. Are you that bothered?

Hmm... Well, it's just not convenient? I didn't think there would be so little around here.

Are things different in other towns, or wherever you're from, Nio?



That's something to envy. Places like that have become pretty rare lately.

Is that so? My house was pretty far from town, so it was also a little inconvenient. There was a nice traveling merchant who always came by, though, so I guess it was actually pretty good. After traveling for so long, I've started to feel like my home really was something special.

Isn't that good? Your homeland should feel like a special place.

Yes. What was your homeland like, Logy? You aren't from this town, right?

Let's see... There are a lot of buildings and people, and there's almost no green vegetation left. That's why it's pretty strange to me to hear someone say that it's inconvenient to be missing herbs.

I'm a little surprised... My homeland was full of greenery, but I suppose that's actually a very rare thing.

I really would like to see such a nice place. Where did you come from?

It's very far from here, so I think it would be very difficult to go there...



I see... I will when I have a chance.



Oh, you're back. Did Ms. Nio have anything that could help with heat?

No. In fact, she said she needed to find more herbs right now, and we ended up talking about where she came from. Did she ever tell you about that?

Yes. One time I asked where she and Wilbell came from, and she said a place far to the east from here, that was filled with greenery and beautiful, healthy fields.

Yeah, that's what she told me. I wonder why those places are getting rarer and rarer. Could it...

What's wrong?

Nothing, don't worry about it. Actually, can we head to Katla's shop? I want to see if she has anything interesting.

Sure. Let's go.[/i]



It's too much work to count every single one... And when I use 'em, I just use them all at once, anyway. Obviously the catalyst's quality is extremely important, but so are the numbers I can purchase.

Why, we owe it to you, Ms. Wilbell! You're my special customer, so I have the perfect item for you. Tada! This Ruin Pendant is all the rage in Central City right now!

This thing? It looks like something I could find just about anywhere.

But, of course you wouldn't! You see, it's hand-crafted by only the finest artisans, piece by piece.

Hmm!? Say, do you mind if I take a closer look at it?

By all means, be my guest.

...Say, you said this was cheap? I would like to purchase it right away.

Huuh? R-Really!? Yes, I'll sell it! I'll sell it! Thank you VERY much!



Hm, Ms. Wilbell? Were you just buying something here?

Oh yeah, this little gem right here.

Hey, that looks like...

This is the Ruin Pendant! You mean she's still selling that thing?

Hey, Wilbell... I don't know what she told you, but I'm pretty sure it's all lies. Just so you know.

L-Logy! How could you say that!? I'm sorry, madam, but we do not give refunds here.

No, no, no, what are you looking at? This was quite the buy. A very rare find!

A rare find...? You mean that thing is actually popular somewhere?

Not the stupid pendant. See this gem here on the very end, here? It's a very rare mineral.

Huh...? A rare...mineral?

Oh, yes. It's actually an excellent catalyst, and very hard to find.

Wow, I had no idea when I first set eyes on it...

Well, I wouldn't expect an amateur to know it. There aren't a great many uses for it, either. Nonetheless, I wasn't expecting to come across one at such a bargain. This is quite the gem indeed.

Hmm? Er, you know, if you're not 100% satisfied by our items, we'd be more than happy to refund you.

Oh, I think I'm quite pleased with my purchase. Thank you very much. I'll be back soon...



Hahaha, if you'd known it was really rare, you could have demanded a higher price.

You did say you were trying desperately to sell it, so I guess your wish came true. Congrats.

There's nothing to congratulate me for here!

(I guess we can't expect a little child to be a great negotiator... Maybe we should help her a bit.)

Why are you smiling, Logy?

Oh, it's just... I'm happy to see she's making money.

But we should still do everything we can to help her!

C'mon. We should check with Solle to see if any new requests came in.



There's a bunch we can do!

Yeah. And if this assignment is anything like the previous ones, some of our jobs should be to fulfill some job requests from Solle. Let's go ahead and accept all the ones we can report in now.



You're so smart, Logy!



Look! Now you can use an Omega Craft, too. It'll be a lot easier to defeat dangerous monsters if both of us have these.

You're right. Thanks Escha.


The hotshot and businessman

Is something wrong? Do you have more work for us?

There's some people I'd like you to meet. Please follow me.



Music: Belly's Bullet

Hey...it's those guys from the ruins. I guess they really weren't looters.

I'll have to burn this moment into my memory... Nice to meet ya.

Miss Marion, who might these be?

They're both adventurers who are going to help us with our efforts. They've worked for us in the past.

Name's Reyfer, Reyfer Luckberry. Professional treasure hunter.



What is he...wearing? I've never seen clothes like that before...

I am the honorary president of the self-governing body of Reisengang, and leader of our science club... Deputy director of the Colseit Friends, famed adventurer Harry Olson. It is a great pleasure.



Reisengang? So he's THAT Harry Olson... Never thought I'd see him here.

I'm Escha from the R&D Division. We're alchemists. This is my colleague, Logy.

You've got TWO alchemists here? That's pretty rare. And the two of you are...pretty close?

Yes! Logy is a really good friend of mine!

Ah, okay... No need to rub it in, haha.

...So, what exactly are we doing here?

Ah, yes. Allow me to explain. Miss Marion and I are good friends, you see...

...And during my last business trip, Harry was kind enough to offer me lodgings.

I see... She's never told me much about that trip, actually...

Afterwards, I heard that Marion had a new post, so I thought I'd come along and how she was doing. Lo and behold, she was completely short-staffed and bewildered by her duties.

Well Harry here asked me to help out with the R&D Division's doin's, starting today.

You're both going to be helping us? That would be amazing!

Oh, no, only Reyfer will be joining you on your expeditions. I will be with you in spirit, though!

You're going to help us...? Um, is this okay, Miss Marion?

I got permission from both Colland and Solle. Besides, there's no denying we could use the help. Officially, we're contracting them on as "external consultants".



Why...is he speaking like that? I'm getting a headache...

Feel free to let me handle things for ya, kids. I hope we make a good team.

Treasure? Um... We're investigating the ruins to see what we can learn from them... (Can he really help us...? He does sound like an interesting person! Maybe we can become friends...)





Glad that's over...

Huh?

It's Reyfer. Just the way he talks is very strange to me, and he seems to be more interested in treasure than investigating the ruins along with us.

Is that going to be a problem? As long as he helps with our adventures, I don't see the problem with letting him search for treasure in the ruins.

Maybe... We just have to make sure we don't get go off hunting treasure like he does. We have a job to do, and I don't think Marion would be very happy if we were more interested in finding treasure than doing our job.

I know, I know.

Oh, and Escha. Including us, there's now seven people going on our adventures. We don't have enough room to bring supplies for everyone. So, before we leave town, we need to decide who has to stay behind.

Oh, that's too bad...okay, I'll let Wilbell know she can do things by herself while we're away.

Hey, I'll go with you. We're about ready to go.



No, I just got here myself... You ready to head out?

Why is Reyfer leading this party now?

Oh, sorry for rustling the reins from you. Lead on, Mr. Leader.

What...? I'm not mad at you, I was just asking.

Hey, don't get all snippy on me now. It doesn't really matter to me who the leader is.

Yeah, you don't sound like yourself, Logy.

S-Sorry... I don't know why, but I'm just on edge whenever Reyfer's around.

Really? I actually enjoy talkin' to you.

Hahaha... Um, Mr. Reyfer, you're really used to going on adventures, right?



As long as there's treasure to be had, even a ladies' room becomes an ancient mystery to me.

I-I see...

Ugh, stop acting stupid, and let's get going...

Hey, c'mon now. We're gonna be searchin' for treasure together, so why shouldn't we be friends?

This is not one of your treasure hunts. This is an official investigation.

Haha, same thing, right? C'mon, let's go. If we sit around for too long, someone'll beat us to it. I do have a bit more life experience than you two, so you could learn a thing or two from me.

So you do want control of this party, then...

Hahaha... He is pretty driven. I think he'll be a big help to us!

He does seem pretty together, but still...

Does he bother you that much, Logy?

It's not that, it's just... Never mind. Let's get going.



Looks like we've got a long trip. Good thing we made all those preparations.



Music: To the Land Without a Name

It's a desert...so why don't I feel very hot?

Well, we're close to a river, and it's December. That might make this area a little colder than most, but I still wouldn't have brought that outfit, Escha.

It's okay! The hat protects me from the sun.



Hey Logy, how does Threia attack? She doesn't have anything she throws or hits the enemies with. She just sort of shakes her head and blasts the enemy with something...

I'm not...it's her earrings!

Huh?

I'm not sure how it works, but I'll bet Threia uses special earrings made by ancient alchemists to attack. She probably found a prototype in ruins somewhere and made earrings based off of that. It's surprisingly effective, honestly. Maybe I didn't give her enough credit.

I wonder what other things alchemists in the past made, besides the ruins.

Well, slags for sure. We know slags have been around for a very long time, but other than that it's mostly a mystery. Maybe that's a big reason she wants to study the ruins more.



Logy! Be careful! There's something in the grass!



These things are a lot stronger than you'd expect hamsters to be...



Escha, I'll be bringing in Reyfer. I need to take a quick break.

S-Sure!







Incredible...I guess her earrings and jewels are even more powerful than I thought.



It's important everyone work together to defeat difficult enemies, Escha. Everyone has a part.

Yeah. We're definitely stronger when we work together.



That shirt will provide a lot more protection against enemy attacks. Don't worry about me, Escha. You should use that one.



You were right, Logy...it's definitely getting hotter.

Yeah...let's move on as fast we can. The sooner we can leave this desert after finishing the investigation, the better. Looks like this lake is mostly dried up.



It's a good thing those slags were pretty weak...but Mr. Reyfer sure is strong.

I have to agree. A gun is a good choice to bring on adventures.



They also dropped a new staff for me! My mother gave me the staff I'm using now, so I'm going to keep taking good care of it, but I need something a little stronger when I go on adventures.



This looks like the village's warehouses for food and other supplies...but they've been boarded up. What happened?

Oh no...

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 19:28 on Oct 14, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012

Glazius posted:

Are there obstacles that require other things? Like, you need some kind of ice-effect stuff to get through a stretch of desert?

Nope, just rocks. Though, the amount of damage a bomb will do depends on its alchemy level. The bombs we get at the end at the end of the game are going to be better rock destroyers than Crafts.

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 01:17 on Oct 15, 2014

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
I've got one more day in Tokyo, but I do have some news. Atelier Shallie is heading west. Not a huge surprise, given the past five Atelier games have been localized, as well as the Rorona, Totori, and Meruru remakes (no word on Ayesha's, I think), but welcome news, of course. Interestingly, Ayesha got a first-run bonus for the Vita version, and the costume it gives Ayesha is quite nice.

Naturally, I'll be buying and doing an LP of it when I feel ready to do so. But, that won't be for a year at least.

Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
Part IX: The Thirsty People and Settlement



Do you think the village is still here, Logy?

Probably. Marion wouldn't send us out here if the village was gone, but... Things can't be looking good if the storehouses are boarded up. Let's get to the village quickly.



Oh, we've been waiting for you!

The report said that your water supply has dried up. Would you mind telling us more about this?

It's been slowly drying out for a little while, but... We didn't expect it to all go so suddenly.

I see... Well, in that case we're going to need...

We've already taken the initiative and prepared them for you.

Thank you very much! Well, I guess it's time to go off on our mission!



Hmm...

What is it?

It's a recipe to create a create a small wellspring. It probably won't be enough for the entire village, but if we can make this soon, then we can definitely get the villagers a lot more water. It looks like the well in this village dried up, and if we use this item, we can replenish the supply. We should make it soon.

Yeah... The people here look like they're really thirsty.



The village is large, but that will only make it harder to help this place recover... This could be tricky.



Logy, looks like there's some alchemy ingredients in here. Nothing in here looks like it can be eaten, anyway... I'll just take a few things.



Hey Logy, I found something!

What is it? ...Oh, it's an Iron Plate. Very useful in syntheses that involve a lot of metal. We should take it with us.



I knew it...

What is it?

I'll tell you later. C'mon, we should check out the village well, see how bad the drought has been.



It's dark, but there's definitely not much water down there.

Hey Logy, what was that man saying about the land decreasing?

It's been something that's been happening for a while now. Fertile lands have been going barren for a while now. This has been mostly happening in remote areas far from civilized areas like the areas around Central, but it's something that can happen anywhere. Not only that, but water sources have been drying up as well. No one really knows why it's happening.

Really? No idea?

There have been some theories, but nothing that's been proven yet. That's why Colseit is so strange to me, is that such a remote area can support such a large apple orchard.

Wow...I hope nothing bad ever happens to the orchards.

Yeah, the orchards are really special. Anyway, looks like we've completed our investigation here. Making that Drought Control recipe is going to be important now, so we should get back. I have to get started on working on cleaning the atelier.

That again? Then again, I have some jobs that the Maintenance Division wanted me to do. Something about making some metal connectors for the docks.

I did notice they looked like a little worn-down.





Huh!? You're finished already!? Oh, I'm so jealous that you're such a quick worker.

You're just inefficient. How do you expect ot even finish at the rate you're going?

Oooh... What do I need to do to become really fast like you?

For starters, you could turn down some requests. Focus on what you've already put on your plate.

Ahh, Marion told me the same thing.

Well, it was good advice. I think she wanted to come in and check in on our progress later today anyway. In fact, she should be coming in right about now...



Well? How are you guys doing in here?

We're doing well! I actually just wrapped up.

Ah, very impressive. And how about you, Escha?

U-Umm...I'm just getting started on today's work...

H-How can you possibly be so behidn!? Don't tell me that you've...

Um... Well, I was doing some work that Brother's team requested from us, and I...

If you've got time to be helping others, you have time to finish your own duties first!

Eek! I'm sorry...!

I was just telling her that, so go easy on her. Here, I'll help her with these documents.

Sorry, Logy... Escha, make sure you learn your lesson from this.

Y-Yes... I'll be more careful.



Huh!? I-Is that true...?

Wow, that's pretty exciting.

So, while our reputation's improving, it's not an excuse to slack off on our assignments. We've got to be careful about what work we take on, and manage our time a little better, mmkay?

Yes! I'll be sure to finish everythin on time from now on!

You sure you're gonna be okay? So, what haven't you finished yet...?

Um, this one...and this one... Oh yeah, and that one...

A lot more than I thought.

...Oh, why are the two of you so, um...different...? Though the two of you do make a pretty good team when you work together.



I'm not angry, Escha, it's just that I don't want Marion to worry about us. If she thinks I'm doing all the work, and you can't handle the jobs you've taken, that won't look very good for you or the department. That reflects on Marion, and Solle and Colland as well.

I know, but... What can I do?

Hmm... How about, I'll check your schedule every few weeks, and offer my suggestions? I want you to be punctual, but responsible as well. No one is expecting you to do everything.

... How do you do it, Logy? You're always so professional, and are always so organized. It doesn't seem like there's anything you can't do.

Well, I was trained in Central under people much more skilled than I was or am. Besides, I can't synthesize in a cauldron. And...there's something else I can't do as well.

Something else?

It's about something that happened a long time ago. Never mind. I'll start getting the materials ready for the Purify Bottle. Why don't you go see what R&D has to offer? I'll join you after I'm done here. Katla said she wanted to speak to us about the last adventure.



This should be really helpful, and it's not that much.



Haha, was it really that fun?

Yes! I've never traveled around like this! Everything's a new discovery!

Yeah, there were some dangerous times, but it was still a lot of fun.

Personally, I wish you'd be a little more cautious...

But at least I'm not getting in your way, right?

...Yeah. I was surprised at how seriously you took it.

We got a lot of work done, so you were a big help. Thank you, Katla.

Hee hee, you're welcome!

So, did you find any rare items? I forgot to ask earlier.

What...? What rare items?



I totally forgot. I'm so ashamed...

It's pretty strange that you'd forget something like that, Katla.

I guess I couldn't help it. Being around outside with you was so much fun.

Yes, but if you forget your main objective, then it was all for nothing.

Ugh, you're right.

W-Well, you can always look for stuff on your next investigation.

Yeah, that's right. I'll definitely find something special next time!

I like how you casually imply that you're going to go with us every time now. Clever girl...

Are you still against it, Logy?

It's too late for that. It hink you should just do what you can for now.

I think so, too. We'll protect you, so don't worry.

Th-Thank you very much!

However, we do expect you to start pulling your own weight from now on. We'll be counting on you.

Got it. Just leave it all to me!



Your attitude toward her has changed a lot, Logy.

Really? I guess it has, but she's more than proven herself on the adventures we've gone with her on. She can be troublesome, but she's helpful and resourceful. She's a good traveling companion, but I'm not still not sure about her business model.

Hehe, yeah. Anyway, didn't Katla have a reference book in stock?



Yeah. Lots of interesting recipes in this one. Let's pick it up.



That's the Bottle. Should we head back to the village now?

I have something else I want to make first...



That's an interesting item. What is it?

It's a Glass Tiara. It uses magical runes to lessen the damage taken from monster attacks and reduces your spirit instead. If you don't have any spirit, though, it won't work. It can also change all sorts of things about your body just by wearing it. It's really interesting.

I...see... Escha, I was planning on working with the equipment brought from Central a bit. There's some modifications I need to make to it, and it's just...it might be a little dangerous for you around, so why don't you take a little break? Do you have anything you need to do in town?

Hmm, Nio stopped by the atelier earlier today. She said she had a new recipe book. So, I'll just take a little break and go buy it.

Good idea.



We've been buying a lot lately...but the more books we get, the better.



You're back. Did you get the book?

Yeah. Lots of good healing items. We should be a lot safer during our journeys.



Medicine Bread... I had this a lot back in Central. Very easy to pack, and nutrious. Not very sweet, though. I don't know if you'd like it, Escha.

Really? Maybe I need to make more snacks.



Logy, I was thinking... The villagers looked really hungry, and they didn't have any land to grow food. They didn't have much food either.

That's true, but what's your plan?

Well, it might be a good idea to make some food before we go. I'm sure they'd really like it, especially since even if we did use the Purify Bottle to restore water and nutrients to the soil, it might take a while for them to start growing food.

You know, you're absolutely right. You have some really good ideas every now and then, Escha.

"Every now and then"? You don't have to be so mean, Logy...

Haha, I'm joking. Anyway, it's a good idea. Why don't you make some of your Apple Tarts? I'm sure they'd like that.

Yeah! Let's get started!



And we're done! Let's get going!







But if this drought continues, I'm afraid we'll have to abandon this village...

I guess we solved the immediate problem, but there are still issues that need to be taken care of.

This is about all we can do for them right now. Let's go and report back to the boss.

Is that really all? I mean, the problem is still there...

True, but there's only so much we can do without knowing the source of the problem. We still don't know if the problem is localized to this area, or if the problem is more severe. That is, if it's a problem at the village or at the source. We won't be able to tell until we wait a few months and see what happens. At the very least, the immediate problem is over.

Yeah, you're right... But still, I want to check back every now and then. We can't let that village die.

I agree, but we should be getting back for now.



Interesting. We've completed all of the main assignments. That took a little while.



And we got some interesting new books, too! Books for making new weapons, making new accessories and synthesis items, and making more powerful bombs... Great!

Not to mention being able to carry more items outside of town. We're making some excellent progress. It's thanks to your alchemy, Escha.

No, no, it's all due to your professionalism. You're only a little older than me, but you're so much more experienced.

It may be like Marion says. We make up for each other's weaknesses.

Yeah! Let's check out the last assignments... Delivering Distilled Water and glass materials to people in town, defeat a powerful Steel Skin in the mountain atelier, use a Cup of Life to heal the people helping us in battle, make a Lightning Bomb with the "Piercing" effect, make some Handmade Pottery, make a Cotton Shirt with the Defense +3 effect, patrol the Southern Ruins and defeat a Nano Slag in the Courtyard, gather some Glass Cores at the Old Highway, and...make a Glorious Note. Looks like a synthesis task.

Sounds like a lot, but I'm sure we can do it. What do you want to take care of first?

Hmm...maybe the Glorious Note?


The magic of alchemy

Hmm... What should I do?

Something wrong, Escha?

I want to make something new, but nothing good's coming to mind. I guess I really don't have a lot of variety yet, huh?

I think you're doing the best you can with what you have to work with...



Oh, Marion! It's good to see you.

Another new piece of equipment form Central City just arrived.

Wow... I'm impressed. To be quite honest, I never even thought we'd get one device, but now...

Looks like I underestimated our boss, too. He really has a number of connections in Central City. The maintenance crew will come install this for you. Do you mind waiting outside again?

Oh, of course... I wonder what we're getting?



Do you know what we're getting, Logy?

No, I have no idea... I wonder what Mr. Grumman managed to get...

Yes, right around there's fine... Okay, perfect. Thank you. It's all done. Go check it out, you guys.



Wow, a Dismantler. How did you get this?

I have no idea what this device can do, but I'm glad you're happy. Well, then... Make sure you put it to good use, and keep up the good work.

Thank you very much, Ma'am. And, please give the branch manager my regards.

Um... So, what does this thing do? I don't have a clue...

This is a Dismantler. It's used primarily for analyzing ancient artifacts.

Whoa... So you can tell what the artifacts we discover in ruins are?

Not just that... If you analzye a compound in a Dismantler, you can see what materials it's made up of. Put simply, you can then Synthesize the artifacts that we've discovered on our travels.

Whoa... We can make things that we find outside?

I'll use this to figure out the recipe, and then give it to you, Escha. I'm the only one who can use this here, so leave the analyzing to me.

That sounds like a great idea. I get the feeling I'd never use that right, even if you taught me how.

If you find a new artifact, let's try analyzing it. Then we can have new Synthesis recipes for you.

Well, that's always nice. Hmm...this is getting exciting!

Still, I never thought we'd get technology like this. This thing is the pride of the R&D team in Central. I was always envious of those guys for making something like this. It's thanks to machines like this that alchemy research has come as far as it has.

Oh? Central City has divisions, too?

Yeah. I belonged to the R&D Division for a while, but I was transferred out before the Dismantler research was completed. The Divisions are organized similarly to here in Colseit, but the competition between the teams is a lot more intense than it is here. It was a little exhausting...

Why is that?

Well, it's a little hard to explain, but basically, the teams that perform the best get the most money. Teams that don't perform to expectations get dismantled, reorganized, or just removed, and the researchers get fired. It's a lot of pressure to come up with new and better ideas all the time, but that's the kind of place Central City is.

Wow...



I think I'm good to go. Escha, do you want to see weapon synthesis?

Of course! I've been waiting to see how it's done.

Okay. Stand back.



Went perfectly.

Wow! Great! Seeing you work with that is amazing.

Okay, now all I have to do is finish the hilt and...



The swords you use look a little different from regular swords, Logy.

I'm not sure of the details, but apparently it was something found in the ruins, then upgraded. I put it together as a hobby. Never in a thousands years did I actually expect to use it in combat.

I see... So that's how you ended up with a sword, even though you're an alchemist.

Heh, I've got a ways to go. My instructor was so much better than I am.

You mean you had a teacher, Logy?

Oh, yeah. He was a top-notch swordsman, but he always had a scary look on his face.

I-I see... I've never learned any martial arts, so I have no idea. Do you think it's important ot exercise and practice the way you do?

Escha, you're always helping me out with the apple orchards and such. You do a lot of manual labor. Compared to that, I never really left my atelier for any considerable period of time.

I see... I guess it's good to get some exercise, then. Otherwise we wouldn't be able to move at all!

At the time, I was only doing it because I had to, but now I'm thankful for all that practice. ...If my instructor hadn't dragged me outside to practice, I might've spent my entire career inside.

Huh!? You mean you were THAT much of a homebody?



Logy, I had another question about your swords...

Oh? Feel free to ask.

Well, I watched Linca practice a few times in town, and the way she fights with a sword is so much different than how you fight. So why do you and Linca use swords so differently?

Well, there's a lot of ways to fight with a sword. Linca's method of swordfighting emphasizes powerful slashes and blows, sacrificing speed for power. I never really had time to practice fighting like that, so I had to come up with my own method for swordfighting. Linca's probably a better overall swordsman than I am, so I have to make up for my weaknesses with alchemy.

Yeah, Linca fights a lot differently than you do. Is the sword really that important?

Yes. When you consider a fighting style, you have to take advantage of your strengths and reduce your weaknesses. Linca has a very strong, powerful body, so that kind of sword works for her. A light, fast sword like I use wouldn't work for her, because her body would slow her slashes down. But, even with the difference in our swords and our bodies, I'm sure there's still a lot I can learn from her.



Are you still working on Imbuing?

Yeah. I want to make a new sword, so I've still got a little work to do. Putting the finishing touches on, and...



Nice. Looks like my skills are still fine after all this time. Escha, I'm going to go and get something to eat from Duke's. I'm getting hungry. You should get started on your own work. The Maintenance Division really needs those connectors. See you later.



I think I've made a lot of progress today. Maybe I should take a little break. Oh! That's right... Maybe I'll try to bake that cake recipe that Clone gave me the other day. I'm sure Logy will come back while it's baking... Maybe Miss Marion and Linca will be back, too! Okay, it might be a little big, but I'm gonna do it!



Uh-oh... Maybe I made a little too much. Well, it's always better to have too much cake than not enough! And to top it off...

That was a lot of work. Good thing I got some food from Duke's or I couldn't have helped Marion.



Don't worry, it was nothing. Let's get back to the Atelier and see how Escha's doin--



Wha--what on earth?

Um... What is this?

What the heck are you doing, Escha?

T-This is, um... Well, what happened is... I-It's not what you think!

And how could it not be what we think?

I was just going to taste it before you showed up, you know, to make sure it was good... But it ended up being a lot bigger than I thought, so... I figured I needed to have a bigger taste...

Just stop. I can't bear to listen to any more of your logic.

Isn't that a bit much for "just a taste"?

I-I'm so sorry! Before I knew it, I'd eaten it! I can't believe I ate almost the whole thing! I wanted to share it with everyone, too... Ahhhhhhh...!



Y-Yeah, don't worry about it.

B-But I shouldn't be so greedy, right? It was just so delicious, I-I... Oh, I know! I'll make another one right now, and we can all eat that one together!

You're going to have even more... Maybe you should call it quits on cake for today.

A-Anyway, break time's over! Time to get back to work, you two.

O-Okay... I'll stop for today.

*sigh* Let's get this place cleaned up. We can't do any work like this.



It did look pretty tasty, though. The next time you bake one, save a bit for me, okay?

Yes, absolutely! Next time, we'll all eat it together!

How did she bake that cake...? And where did she find the ingredients?



Escha...

I know, I know, but once I started I just couldn't stop. I love baking so much!

...Clearly. It's just...you should be careful not to get carried away in the future. I know I can't stop your love of sweets, but it would be a big help to me and Marion if you could keep it under control while you're working.

*sigh* I know, I'm sorry...

You don't have to apologize to me. Anyway, I wouldn't mind if you did make that cake again. Just...smaller. I'm sure Marion would like it, too.

Really? It's a promise, then!

(That cake did look really tasty.)



Man that bomb looks powerful. We'll need to make this one as soon as possible. Escha, let's get started on those two delivery assignments. I think we've got enough Distilled Water and glass materials now. We don't need to make new items, actually. All the Glass Cores we picked up should count.



Yes. Do you have business with Marion?

We were going to have her check something, but she doesn't seem to be around.

Marion's out for a meeting. She said to leave anything on her for her desk. If you have a lot of documents for her, I could help you carry them.

That sounds like work we should be doing.

Not at all. The only work I can do here in the office is carrying stuff around. If you two do those jobs too, I won't have anything to do.

Now that you mention it, I don't think I've ever seen you writing up any paperwork, Linca.

I have a hard time making out small letters... And it's hard to figure out what sentences mean. I can stay up all night on guard duty, but when I start trying to read papers I fall right to sleep.

(How does that happen...?)

I know what you mean. Reading the same things over and over again just gets so old.

So you aren't very good with paperwork... I guess that doesn't leave you with much to do in town.

...So it really isn't good that I can't handle writing documents while I work here. Even if something about your paperwork bothers you, there's nothing I can do to help...

That's not true. Besides, everyone has their strengths and weaknesses.



Even if someone pushes herself to do something she's not good at, she wouldn't get good results. Thus, avoiding work you aren't good at maximizes your efficiency for all the things you are good at...

No, wait. You should try to reduce the number of weaknesses you have. We didn't have enough people here before, but now that you two are here, I can leave all that to you.

Thank you very much. I think I've found a solution to my problems, thanks to you!

What, really? That's good...

From now on, I will only contribute to the Development Division by doing work I'm suited to.



O-Okay. I understand...

I'm not sure if what she's saying makes a whole lot of sense... Do you think she'll be okay?

I'm not sure... Don't you find Linca a little strange?

Strange? How?

Well, her sword-swinging skills are so effective, but she can't even write very well? How does something like that happen? I can understand not being able to write reports well, especially with Solle around, but Linca seems...different somehow.

Maybe she didn't go to school. She could have spent her whole time practicing.

Well, that's a possibility, but... Something about her just seems strange to me. Maybe it's my imagination.



Logy, I want to talk with Threia about something. Go back inside the Hall!

What? Why?

It's Girl Talk. You can't listen to it. It's nothing important. I just wanted to talk to her about something.

You are the strangest person I've ever met. Okay, okay.



Oh, excuse me, I didn't notice... Can I help you?

Huh? Oh, umm... I was just thinking that you're really gorgeous, Threia.

Wow, that's the first time anyone's complimented me like that... Thank you.

Huh!? No one's ever said anything like that to you!? I wouldn't have expected that.

Don't be so surprised. I think it's rare for someone to be able to pay a compliment to someone's face. Also, you're very kind to compliment me, but I think you're quite cute yourself.



No. In fact, I can't even remember the last time a man approached me for something not work-related.

Ahaha, now I think you're just exaggerating. Everyone's probably too intimidated to say so.

I generally stay indoors and read in my free time. Id on't go out on the town often. In fact, I don't interact with others taht much, now that I think about it... It can be such a pain. It's so tiring to speak to others, and worry about their needs... If I could just stay at home all day, I would.

Huuuuuuuuuh!? That's such a waste, though! Wouldn't you get lonely?



Not to mention that because of my thesis, I don't have time to talk to others.

I think the problem is more than just your work. You'll have more fun if you just talk to people!

Yes, yes, yes, Marion doesn't let a day go by without yelling at me to get out more. I AM trying... Don't you have a nice little boyfriend or two in this town? Maybe you could introduce me?

Umm... When you put it like that, I don't think there's anyone I would think of that way...

Haha, I'm just kidding. If you really do have a friend like that, give him to Marion instead of me. She needs a man more than I do. She never learned how to talk to people so she throws herself at her job.

Oh, is that how it works...? W-Well, I'll make sure to remember that... But, Miss Marion looks like she loves her work, too! Maybe she'll get married to work, like you...?

Just don't say that where she can hear you. I think it would be something of a shock to her.



Hmm, maybe she and Marion are friends... They seem to have similar views on life. I hope I can get to know Miss Threia better. She's so smart and beautiful... I hope I can be like her someday. Oh! I should let Logy know that I'm done talking.



So what did you and Threia talk about?

Hehe, it's a secret.

Haha, okay, I won't ask again. By the way, didn't an official at the town entrance want some materials?



Whew, just enough.The water should help the desert village get back some of their water.



And that's the second delivery we needed to do. That was pretty easy.



So what's the current state?

I-I can't tell you! You guys! Please, help me out here!



It should be obvious. I'm researching the history of magic, and its practitioners. To think that it really exists... Once word of this spreads, it will shock the scientific community.

I! TOLD! YOU! It's all a secret, so I can't tell you!

Threia, please stop. Wilbell's helping us, and putting her trust in us. You can't go spreading rumors about this!

Aren't you the least bit interested? This could be the breakthrough of the century.

I understand where you're coming from, Threia, but aren't you being extremely rude to Wilbell? If this information gets out, it would be troublesome for Wilbell's associates as well.

I... I didn't know you were so thoughtful...

Also, she's bad enough at keeping secrets already. We should be doing all we can to minimize the damage.

Hey! I... Yeah, you're probably right.

Hehe, at least she knows.

...I apologize. I wasn't being considerate. We really should avoid publicizing this.



Though, would it be okay to ask you some things on a personal level?

Well, I suppose I could tell you just a little...

Really? Then tell me too, please!

Hmm... No, I can't tell you. You'd probably blab everything to Logy.

Aww, no fair...

Well, that really is your own fault. Although I know a lot, thanks to you.

You aren't interested yourself? Not in things like magical techniques or technical details...?

No, not really. Why, are you offering to teach me?

Hmph... Showing no interest like that is annoying in its own right.

Um... So, is this supposed to be a secret or isn't it!? It's getting hard to tell.

...I wouldn't worry about it too much, Escha. I doubt Wilbell knows, either.

Sylphid fucked around with this message at 04:22 on Oct 28, 2014

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Sylphid
Aug 3, 2012
This is a general question to everyone reading the thread, but going forward, what would you like to see more / less of? Right now I kind of have my own ideas what I put priority on, but if there's anything you'd like to see changed, feel free to speak up.

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