f I had a nickel for every time this game managed to shoehorn in an excuse to make Joshua cross-dress I'd have two nickels... which isn't a lot, but it's still weird that it happened twice, right?
I just want to point out that Estelle only started expressing attraction to Joshua after seeing him in a dress, and is really going out of her way to get him in a maid outfit now. This doesn't go anywhere. I'm just saying.
What DOES go somewhere is what I like to call rule number one of Trails: never take your eyes off the maid.
Anyway though, I think that this scene with the queen is what really cemented Trails as special to me because of - honestly - the sheer unvarnished mundane politics of it. The whole underlying conflict of the plot is ultimately contingent on a disagreement between the Queen and the Colonel on international relations, with the Queen spending the last ten years of her reign establishing international liberalism and Richard, carrying the emotional scars and hero worship he learned from the Hundred Days War, swerving hard into power politics. Sure there's also ancient superweapons and magic and giant evil penguins and I'm not going to confirm or deny you kill a god later, but underlying all of it is just the normal problems that any real world nation faces. It's really damn cool.
I just want to point out that Estelle only started expressing attraction to Joshua after seeing him in a dress, and is really going out of her way to get him in a maid outfit now. This doesn't go anywhere. I'm just saying.
What DOES go somewhere is what I like to call rule number one of Trails: never take your eyes off the maid.
Anyway though, I think that this scene with the queen is what really cemented Trails as special to me because of - honestly - the sheer unvarnished mundane politics of it. The whole underlying conflict of the plot is ultimately contingent on a disagreement between the Queen and the Colonel on international relations, with the Queen spending the last ten years of her reign establishing international liberalism and Richard, carrying the emotional scars and hero worship he learned from the Hundred Days War, swerving hard into power politics. Sure there's also ancient superweapons and magic and giant evil penguins and I'm not going to confirm or deny you kill a god later, but underlying all of it is just the normal problems that any real world nation faces. It's really damn cool.
And that's something that carries over to the other games - in Trails, the mundane politicians use the cackling villains for their own benefit just as often as the other way around - and since what allows the shady villains to be shady villains is lost technology that is being actively researched and improved upon by several technological institutes, the tech and power gap between your average Zemurian country and your average villain with a God complex becomes smaller and smaller with every game in the series. Hell, in the most recent game, the main character went against a criminal syndicate that was able to replicate the kind of technology that, just a few years before, was the exclusive domain of said Sephiroth fanboys, but to put everything in motion was the desire of the local president to preserve his country's lead in the world, a direct result of having received billions in war reparations, that were put to use both in the civilian and military spheres.
Departing from the queen's tower, one of the soldiers on guard asks if Hilda is going home for the day, then? Hilda confirms that she believes so, yes. They should just be sure not to do Her Majesty any further discourtesy! One soldier argues that's not fair… Anyway, she should just relax, as they are patriots to their core! Hilda says that's good to hear, but now she believes we should be on our way. As we curtsy and head off, one of the soldiers calls after us - they never did get our names, did they? May they ask them? Estelle hesitates, and then she has to pick between three options - Lena, Schera, or Dorothy. Given the previous conversation, I went with the bitter-sweet first option.
The soldier remarks that Lena is a lovely name - has a pleasant ring to it. Estelle blushes and thanks him very much. He turns to Joshua next, who identifies himself as Karin. He thinks that's a pretty name too, and Joshua assures him he's too kind! He's rather fond of it himself. Is he now…? Oh, right… The soldier quickly clarifies he's with Special Ops, and his name is…! Hilda interrupts and says that's just about enough! She senses an ulterior motive at work. The soldier argues that no, he means, at least not from them… Hilda glares at him, and he squeaks in fear before wishing us a nice walk home….
We make our way back into the castle, descending the staircase from the terrace, where Estelle remarks that Joshua sure is Mr. Popularity, isn't he? It was like their eyes all changed when he told them his name! Joshua argues that it wasn't like that. And he didn't see her shying away from joining in the conversation… Estelle agrees, but that doesn't mean she wasn't nervous. Ugh, she kind of lost all her confidence there… Joshua isn't sure what to make of that.
Just then a nearby door slams open, and a man's voice hiccoughs and wonders what all the noise is about…? Duke Dunan and his butler waddle out of the lounge, the former clearly rather drunk, and Hilda warily greets the man. Ah, he announces, 's a lady of the court! He looks at us in our maid outfits and admits we don't look familiar…
Hilda quickly clarifies that we are two of the new hires whom she's instructing, Lena and Karin. We're quite experienced, she explains, so she's giving us some extra training time. Butler Phillip seems to recognize something's off, and Estelle wonders if we were just recognized? Not good… Joshua figures that given how many times we've run into him, it'd be bizarre if the man didn't recognize us…
Duke Dunan declares that Phillip has done quite enough staring! Ha ha ha, it's quite unusual to see this coming from him, stiff upper lip and all that! The butler apologizes for his rudeness, but he claims one of us just looks much like his niece. His eyes were playing tricks on him, it seems. Dreadfully sorry for the discourtesy. Estelle says it's no bother, and Joshua agrees he shouldn't concern himself. Dunan muses that, you know, now that he stops and looks, he must say that we both are quite lovely… The one with the brown hair has a very healthy, clean look to her. Estelle gags at that… He turns to Joshua, and says he personally thinks she'd look best with that raven hair of hers even longer! Joshua says he's… honored… Dunan agrees that yes, he is…
Suddenly the duke swings back towards Estelle and declares that it was Lena, was it not? She shall attend to him this evening! While everyone takes this in warily, the butler nervously asks what His Grace means? Estelle is revolted at the thought of serving the duke tea, but Joshua suspects that it's not tea that he wants served. Ugh. Head Maid Hilda insists that His Grace's flirtations, while flattering, are best saved for another time and place. All of the maids in the castle work directly in service to Her Majesty, Queen Alicia. She trusts he hasn't forgotten?
Dunan says he knows that, and some folks simply can't appreciate a joke… Anyway, the castle will be his in a week's time…. Hilda glares at him, and Phillip begs His Grace to stop - no more of this! He does not mind when he drinks to excess, but he knows how his libido gets in such instances! He says this, knowing full well that he may be reprimanded for… Dunan insists again that he was just joking! Enough, he's going to bed! Phillip, relieved, agrees with that and points him to his room.
As he walks by Estelle, though, he pauses again - oh, right, Lena…? She should just let him know if she has any problems… anything at all. He'll give her the best advice the future king can give… Estelle, disgusted, manages to work her way through a thank you. Dunan thinks it's all very cute. Yes, very good… As he walks away, Phillip apologizes unreservedly for all the… fuss. His Grace will likely remember nothing of this come morning, so we should set our minds at ease. Hilda certainly hopes so…
Phillip leaves, and Hilda admits she feels so badly for him - that butler truly seems to bear the weight of the world on his shoulders. Estelle wonders if she knows Mr. Phillip personally? Hilda confirms that they've known each other since they were children, though not nearly as well as they once did, thanks to the one he serves. Estelle admits the man does seem like he's nervous all the time, doesn't he? She'd bet that everything between the duke and the colonel has him completely on edge. Joshua agrees, and then recalls the moment earlier when she called Joshua 'Mr. Popular.' The duke certainly seemed fond of her!
Estelle cringes. Please, she'd like to keep her food in her stomach, thank you! Oh, right, before she forgets - back to before. She feels like she's missing something. Why would the duke want tea so late in the day? Joshua hesitates, but Hilda just cuts to the chase. Estelle. She'd like to elucidate the matter of 'tea' and why gentlemen should never request it in polite company. Come closer.
Hilda whispers something in Estelle's ear, and she immediately blushes bright red. Now does she understand? Estelle says she does, while Joshua thinks she's hopeless - completely hopeless…
After once again changing back to our usual outfits in the maids' room, Estelle thanks Hilda and Shea for their assistance. If not for them, he doesn't know what we'd have done. Hilda argues it was the least they could do in Her Majesty's service. She only asks that we complete the request the queen made of us. Shea nervously says she feels the same way, and she begs us to do everything in our power to save the princess!
Estelle guesses she's one of the princess's royal retainers, and Shea confirms that's true - regretfully, she rarely gets the chance to serve her directly. She's so kind and open and always treated her more like a friend than a servant. The thought of her being held captive keeps her up at night. Estelle understands, but assure her that she can rest easy now that we're on the job! We'll save her! Let's get going.
We can't really go anywhere except where we're supposed to. Before we leave, though, Head Maid Hilda tells us she doesn't believe any suspicions have been raised, but tells us to stay alert until we return to our room… You never can be too certain how closely the Intelligence Division is watching you… Shea thinks she should have gone with Klaudia…
As we head out and back up the stairs towards our room, an off-screen voice interrupts us - what, she inquires, might we be doing at this late hour?
Captain Amalthea approaches alongside two armed guards, much to our distress, and chuckles as she wishes us a good evening. She realizes we've been invited here, but don't we think it's a bit late for us kids to be walking around? Joshua apologizes, but claims that since we've never been in a castle like this, we simply couldn't resist the urge to take a look around. Amalthea says that's certainly understandable. So, where were we, half an hour ago…? We should enlighten her, if only for her own edification…
We're given a few options, but there's only one that actually makes sense here - we were in the maid's quarters we just left. Amalthea appreciates the honesty, and says we shouldn't waste any more time on games. She did, in fact, receive several reports of us going in and out of the maid quarters. Don't we think it's a bit odd to 'look around' that particular place, though? Estelle goes to speak up, but Joshua wonders if Amalthea doesn't think questioning someone like that, when she's already got the facts, is a little cruel? Amalthea takes that as a compliment, then asks what business we had in the maid quarters, exactly? She suggests honesty.
Joshua begins to spin an answer, just as yet another off-screen voice yells his name. Ah, he's been here the whole time? Zin swaggers into frame, much to everyone's surprise, a bottle of booze in one hand as he wanders closer. Whoa, now that's the stuff! Estelle tells him off for being drunk, and Zin apologizes before turning towards Amalthea. Hey, if ain't his favorite gorgeous officer lady! Nice… Some luck that they meet up again, eh? Amalthea is nonplussed, so Zin barges on - so, are his students causing her any trouble? Estelle isn't sure how to take being called 'students', while Amalthea says it's just that we were in the maid quarters for a while, see… She merely wanted to know our business, as a security precaution.
Zin says he can totally get that - truth is, he sent us off to find some munchies to go with his booze! He turns to us and asks if we found him anything to eat? Joshua admits that we didn't, since the cooks aren't back yet, he guesses… We went to ask the maid if there was any way we could get our hands on something, but no luck… Zin sighs, and says we'll have to do without, then. Oh, well. He just had a great idea, though! He turns back to Amalthea and invites her over for a drink - nothing goes with drinks like a beautiful lady!
Amalthea quickly extricates herself, claiming she's busy, so she'll have to decline the generous offer! She apologizes to us for the misunderstanding, squinting dangerously, and advises us to return to our room and remain there for the rest of the night. She's supposed to investigate suspicious behavior, understood? Estelle confirms she gets it, while Joshua admits it is pretty late, so we should probably just go to bed. Amalthea chuckles and heads out with her troops, while Zin laments being denied… Oh well, we might as well head back to our room like she said.
Moments later we're back in our bedroom, where Zin sighs in relief - well, looks like we managed to convince her, at least! Estelle is surprised to realize that Zin is suddenly no longer acting drunk, and he explains that he was just acting, since he hasn't actually had a single drop!
Estelle can't believe it, since his face had even gone all red… Joshua figures he focused on making his blood circulate better, which made it look like he was intoxicated. It's done with some kind of Eastern martial arts breathing exercise, right? Zin is surprised Joshua is familiar with it, actually. Anyway, we seemed to be in a tight spot, so he figured he'd distract everyone and get us out of there. Saving our bacon, as the saying goes?
Estelle remarks that Zin sure is an evil, evil man… Sure, he did help us out, but he also surprised the hell out of her! Zin apologizes again, then asks for the story here? Estelle plays dumb, but Zin figured it should be obvious what he's referring to - the story of our meeting with the queen! Estelle is shocked, bursting out with loud questions - wait, what, how does he know that? Joshua asks him if Elnan told him about it, but Zin admits he couldn't actually get the guy to tell him anything. Still, now he knows anyway, right? Joshua muses that he couldn't have just guessed without prior knowledge, so how much does he actually know…?
Zin chuckles, then figures it's about time to finally show us this, then. He produces a letter from his pocket and hands it over… Estelle wonders what this is? Joshua recognizes the handwriting. Zin tells us not to just stand there. We should read it! It'll explain a lot.
Dear Zin Vathek,
I hope this letter finds you well. I know I've been out of touch. I'm in a hurry, so I hope you'll pardon my bluntness. My work concerning the jaegers is leading me into Imperial territory. However, due to the fact that unusual forces seem to be influencing matters inside Liberl, I feel uneasy being absent for so long.
This is why I must ask a favor of you. Could I persuade you to come to Liberl and help out, if they need it? Since you haven't been to Liberl before, perhaps you could think of it as a recreational trip. There is a Martial Arts Competition before the Queen's Birthday Celebration, and foreigners can participate. It would make fine camouflage.
I realize that this is sudden, but if you can do it, I would be most grateful. I'm intending to return to Liberl before the festival, so hopefully we'll be able to have a drink together when I return.
- Cassius Bright
P.S. You may have the chance to meet my son and daughter! They're currently apprentices at the guild, so if you happen to meet them, feel free to test the extent of their training. Try not to bail them out too much, unless it seems like they really need it.
Estelle is baffled, while Joshua concludes that our Dad actually asked Zin to come to Liberl, huh? That means he's in Erebonia right now. Zin confirms that's the long and short of it. Estelle repeats that phrase - no, what it means is that Zin was in cahoots with him all along!
Zin figures that's kind of a nasty way to put it, right? He owed Master Cassius a favor from the time he spent in Calvard, and this letter just gave him the chance to make them square again. Estelle relents, while Joshua wonders when Zin realized that we were his kids? Zin admits he had a feeling from the outset, once he saw Estelle's bo staff techniques. He asked Killia about it, and she confirmed it.
Estelle mutters that it would have been nice if he'd said something about that at all! We've been worried sick, wondering where Dad's been! Zin says he knows that, and says he's sorry he hasn't told us anything, but he got the impression from the letter that Cassius was trying to keep his whereabouts a secret. Still, we're definitely his kids, all right, if we can pull off a job as big as sneaking an audience with the queen! Estelle admits that he's got a point, then turns to Joshua. Zin knows this much already, so it wouldn't hurt to tell him everything, right? Joshua confirms it's probably best to fill Zin in on the rest. It's a bit far-fetched to say that we could put an end to this whole situation on our own, after all…
Estelle and Joshua tell Zin about how they managed to speak directly with the queen, as well as her request for us to rescue Princess Klaudia. Zin nods sagely, and admits he thought something did seem a little 'off' when everyone was talking at the party… All right, he'll help us out with that little request!
Estelle is amazed that he will, but Zin figures it's the ideal opportunity to settle his debt to Master Cassius. He asks us if he can help, and we are all too happy to accept the assistance. Thanks once again!
Meanwhile...
We shift suddenly to a strange space with walls covered in squiggly black symbols and lines, before panning down to reveal a door in one of the walls with a host of supplies scattered around. Colonel Richard, Second Lieutenant Lorence, and a host of Black Ops soldiers are gathered near the entrance. One of them nervously wonders what this place is…? Another never would have imagined that something like this even existed… The camera zooms out to reveal a bridge has been constructed across a chasm which is covered in yet more symbols, or weirdly regular patches of damaged wall. The place evokes the image of some ancient ruin carved from marble.
Colonel Richard chuckles and says this place is larger than he expected. He asks Lorence to be so kind as to show them the way to the lowest level? Lorence confirms that he will, just as he's suddenly alerted by the arrival of two enemies - two flying mechanical monsters bank into view and block the passage across the bridge. The soldiers are shocked, and Richard concludes these must be 'archaisms'! He and Lorence then mercilessly eviscerate one of the two until they explode, much to the shock of the soldiers. Holy shit! They took those things out in one stroke!
Richard turns to Lorence and admits he was the quickest to react. He is, indeed, truly a force to be reckoned with when he doesn't hold back! Lorence says that Richard flatters him - his own quick-draw technique is also quite remarkable to behold. He can see that he's studied under the Divine Blade himself. He is… humbled. Richard chuckles and says he's still got a ways to go before he can really humble anyone, he's afraid. But… time waits for no man. The skills he now possesses will have to be enough. His strength may be meager, but he must forge this kingdom's future with his own two hands…
Richard turns to his men and declares that the way to ultimate power is now open! A bright new dawn approaches for their beloved Liberl! He expects only the best of each of them! The soldiers promise that they'll work as one for the colonel! For the glory of Liberl! FOR THE GLORY OF LIBERL!
Later, back at the Grancel Bracer Guild, we've already filled Elnan in on the situation, and he tells us we've performed admirably. He's amazed that we were able to deliver the professor's message to Her Majesty in person… Estelle claims we just got lucky, that's all! The real question is, how much longer is luck going to be on our side…? Joshua agrees that we're really going to have to stay focused. Elnan thinks that if we understand that much already, there's nothing more he needs to tell us. In any case, we can consider Professor Russell's request to be fulfilled, so we should accept compensation for a job well done. We get a cool 20000 mira and 18 BP for our trouble.
Now, then… Zin. Elnan remarks that it was pure providence that Cassius invited him here, as they need the help of an A-ranked bracer like himself. Zin says he needn't even ask. Even if he didn't have a debt to repay to Cassius, he couldn't possibly stand by idly in a situation like this. He's with us until the end. Estelle declares that she knew we could count on him! Oh, and what's this A-rank business? Joshua clarifies it's a rank that signifies a full-fledged bracer's full power. There's seven ranks, ranging from G up to A at the top. Estelle is amazed to realize Zin is the highest rank you can get. She never knew he was such a badass!
Zin laughs and admits that he may be A-ranked, but he's still an underling, so to speak. There are twenty A-rankers across the continent, but above them there's an informal S-rank. That one's only granted to bracers who successfully resolve issues on a national scale. There are only four of those on the entire continent. Estelle is not sure she even wants to think about what they can do… Zin sighs, and concludes she really doesn't know any of this stuff, does she…? One of those four is Master Cassius! Estelle is shocked, somehow, shouting 'WHAT?!' She turns to Joshua and asks him he's not going to tell her he already knew about that, right? Right…?
Joshua admits he kind of did - he solved a major case for the Republic about five years ago. Estelle sighs, and says this stuff is hardly worth even getting upset about anymore… Royal Army soldier, hidden hero, Divine Blade, S-rank bracer… If Dad's really so damned awesome, then it sure would be nice if he'd come back and take care of this case. Zin admits she may be right. If he were here with us, perhaps this would never have escalated to the point where a coup d'etat was even possible.
Joshua takes this in silently, and Estelle wonders what's up? Joshua admits he was just thinking about how strange this is. This whole chain of events apparently started with Dad going off on his trip. It's as if whoever planned the coup was waiting for him to be gone… That's the impression he has. So, Zin muses, the coup was planned around Cassius departing for the Empire?
Joshua is sure he's just overthinking things, since he can't think of anyone who could possibly manipulate Dad like that without him noticing he was being used. They'd have to know him and his behavior patterns exceptionally well to be able to pull it off. Estelle agrees that's true - she never knew what he was up to, even though he was so close. Zin doesn't think Colonel Richard could have ever managed to pull the wool over our Dad's eyes, so it's more likely that two major events happened to overlap with each other… Elnan remarks that regardless of the circumstances, we cannot currently rely on Cassius for help.
Therefore, he's resolved to prepare for the worst. He believes an emergency conference of the Grancel branch of the Bracer Guild is called for. All other things being equal, we have a request that comes directly from Her Majesty the Queen. The third article of the bracer code states that we shall never act in a fashion that interferes with the government, but we cannot ignore Her Majesty's request, so we must act. We're no match for the Royal Army as we are, though. He'll ask the cooperation of all bracers in Grancel, including Zin, of course. Estelle agrees that if we come in conflict with the Intelligence Division, we'll need all the help we can get…
Ideally Elnan would like the cooperation of other branches, but the checkpoints have been completely sealed off, as of today. Ostensibly that's to foil any potential terrorist activity… Estelle is shocked, while Joshua concludes we're basically living under martial law right now. The enemy is finally moving at full tilt. Elnan guesses it may be to stifle any activity on the part of the Royal Guardsmen in hiding, as well as ourselves. If we're going to conduct a rescue operation, we'll have to do it with the resources on hand.
Estelle doesn't think that sounds fun, but we'll be up for it! So, do we have a solid idea of where the prisoners are being held? Elnan muses that it's been on his mind for a while now, actually. He believes the most likely place to be the Erbe Royal Villa. Estelle recalls that to be a building in the forest, and Joshua agrees it would make total sense. If the soldiers are using it under the pretense of counter-terrorism, few would question it. He can't imagine they'd want to lock a lady of the royal family in a cell in Leiston Fortress, either… Zin would like a more solid confirmation, though, given that it's the army we're going to be going against here. If we assaulted the wrong place, there'd be hell to pay… Elnan is in full agreement there.
In either case, though, we must first assemble any bracers currently in the royal city. Could he ask us to assemble them here for him? Any information we could gather while doing so would be much appreciated. If he's not mistaken, we are acquainted with a reporter, correct? Estelle figures he means Nial, and Joshua confirms that we should see if he'd picked up anything significant. Elnan adds that we should also attempt to enlist the aid of the Guardsmen who are in hiding. If we could get them to contact him, it would be greatly appreciated. Estelle concludes that means we'll have to contact 'Sister' Julia. Joshua figures she helped us with the castle invitation before, so we should let her know what's going on. Off to the cathedral, then?
Elnan reminds us there are four other bracers in the city - the four we fought in the tournament, Kurt, Grant, Carna and Anelace. We should check the bars and hangouts - they may also be in the hotel. If we spot them, we should instruct them to come back here at once. We promise we'll take care of it - off we go!
Next: Time to fetch all the components of our master-plan... and explore the city some more, of course. We're approaching the endgame now...
Zin laughs and admits that he may be A-ranked, but he's still an underling, so to speak. There are twenty A-rankers across the continent, but above them there's an informal S-rank. That one's only granted to bracers who successfully resolve issues on a national scale. There are only four of those on the entire continent. Estelle is not sure she even wants to think about what they can do… Zin sighs, and concludes she really doesn't know any of this stuff, does she…? One of those four is Master Cassius! Estelle is shocked, somehow, shouting 'WHAT?!' She turns to Joshua and asks him he's not going to tell her he already knew about that, right? Right…?
Joshua admits he kind of did - he solved a major case for the Republic about five years ago. Estelle sighs, and says this stuff is hardly worth even getting upset about anymore… Royal Army soldier, hidden hero, Divine Blade, S-rank bracer… If Dad's really so damned awesome, then it sure would be nice if he'd come back and take care of this case. Zin admits she may be right. If he were here with us, perhaps this would never have escalated to the point where a coup d'etat was even possible.
I know we all keep pointing out how great the worldbuilding is in this game, but the fact that hey, there are other people out there who had their own JRPG character growth and (sometimes ) they don't wink out of existence after their arc ends means that they are still just out there in the world, and they can react to plot stuff and like, everyone has to take that into account. Cassius hit level 99 and is just trying to live his life, and whole-ass governments have files on him like he's a WMD and more settings need to do that.
Fun fact, Cassius's adventures in Calvard are a backstory detail in the Crossbell games and have no bearing whatsoever on the plot of this trilogy, other than "how Zin knows him". Trails!
Trails in the Sky (Part 84) - Royal City Exploration - Rescue MorningNew
Finel plans to run his booth up through the Birthday Celebration. Unless the queen gets better, though, they're just going to up and cancel on them, right? Nonna remarks that with the tournament over, the streets feel a bit freer. But with the Queen's Birthday Celebration coming, that's not going to last very long… Though this year? She's not really sure what to expect… Raleigh wonders if the Birthday Celebration will proceed as planned? Dick says that the tournament's done, so what's next? Now what? Troy is just soooo hungry.
Berden says the trees lining these streets were planted to commemorate Princess Klaudia's birth. Time sure does fly, doesn't it? Gaspard remarks that his stall's tire has blown, it looks like… Latanya mentions that the Martial Arts Competition is always the prelude to the queen's Birthday Celebration, but with the queen having fallen ill this year, what's going to happen? Will the celebration still be held? Tran wonders how the queen is doing…? Without any news, he's been so worried about her he can barely sleep at night anymore!
At Wingard Orbal Factory, Zacharias says it's positively amazing how much money he's made off of the Martial Arts Competition… They depend on the festivities this time of year to make ends meet. If they're in the red, they're dead - if they're in the black, they'll be back! Tom reminds us that it's important to listen to one's customers. They pay the bills, you know? He's always felt that if a customer needs help after hours - really needs help - then he'll gladly stay late and do what he can. Gotta make sure Zacharias signs off on it, though. If he does it too often, he'll tell him to take a hike!
At the Fisherman's Guild, Fisher laments that thanks to the curfew, they can no longer do night fishing! More dire is their inability to travel, cutting them off from all but the most local of fishing holes. This is truly a dark time for their beloved guild. Lloyd wonders how long they plan to keep them hostage like this?! A life without fishing is a life better spent dead. If you can even call it a life at all! He's going to lose his mind! Percy went to the platform to see if there were any flights to Ruan, but the soldiers there told him the airships were all grounded. He was really looking forward to doing some ocean fishing!
At Weis Arms & Guards, Chaeli says that with Her Majesty still sick, she just has no idea what will become of her Birthday Celebration. Shepard wonders if it's not a bit too quiet, considering the tournament only just ended? Next door, at the northwestern house, Ralph can't believe the Royal Guardsmen were behind the terrorist attack… but if Colonel Richard says it, it must be true! Patty says that now that the tournament is over, the Birthday Celebration should be moments away from starting. At least, that's how it usually goes!
At Sunnybell Inn, Cready mentions that the tournament is over, but the city is still crawling with soldiers… Were the Royal Guardsmen really the ones responsible for the attack?! Spencer says that with the Birthday Celebration so close, he hopes there will be some news from the castle. He also prays it's not that the festivities have been canceled… At the house by the Bracer Guild, Bill admits the queen's illness really has him worried. He's worried about the terrorist too, of course, but he's more interested in hearing news of Her Majesty's recovery. Ilene says Her Majesty the Queen is the center of the kingdom and the pride of the people, so she wants to see her well again…
A soldier at the corner of the inn complains that those Special Ops sure have some big egos on them for being the new guys! Pisses him right off! Another patrolling near the orbment factory mentions that the airship platforms are completely closed as of today. A third on the streets insists the Bracer Guild would never harbor terrorists! A fourth wonders what's going to happen with the Birthday Celebration? He's worried about Her Majesty's illness…
East Block
Builna says the Birthday Celebration isn't quite the same with Duke Dunan instead of the queen. Hopefully she gets better by the time it officially starts. Laone says that the Birthday Celebration is only a few days away, but there's been no word from the castle. He wonders how the Royal Guard's investigation is coming along… Marsha mentions that the castle is still closed to visitors, so she feels bad for the people who came all this way to see it. Anton says that someone like Ricky would never be able to understand the passion that dwells deep within him! Somebody save him… Ricky mentions that Anton isn't talking to him right now. We all go through patches like this sometimes, you know?
Private Bergan informs us that he's been instructed to keep Olivier from leaving the embassy premises. He would probably refrain from acting on his behalf, too… at least for the time being. Lifa in her ticket booth mentions the Martial Arts Competition went off without a hitch, but she's still a bit worried about the Birthday Celebration… Private Tact sadly can't tell us what he'll be doing for the Queen's celebration - the ambassador can't decide on his schedule, and until he does, he's got to keep his own open as well. Le sigh!
Ice-cream saleswoman Sorbet wonders whatever happened to those Royal Guardsmen people? Have we heard anything? Nearby, Lucia explains that she comes from a village by the sea, where there are lots and lots of pretty white flowers! Her best friend Polly and all her friends live there! Nemo wants to go to Lucia's house! His mother Carla remarks that boys are so full of energy… Clarice says that seeing Carle's daughter makes her really want one of her own… Miele admits he drank way too much yesterday, ugh… He doesn't even remember who he was drinking with. Oooh, his head… Robyn cheers - now that the Martial Arts Competition is over, the birthday festivities can begin! It's going to be super-fun!
At Edel Department Store, Danton complains the army shut down the airship platforms completely. What are they thinking? How are they supposed to get any new stock at this rate?! A bunch of smeg-heads if you ask him!
Terell mentions all the shopkeepers seemed to be in an uproar over something just now… What the heck happened?! Midee declares that her sister is scared of roaches! So that means she has to suck at selling tea, right? RIGHT?!
Kitty informs us that Queen Alicia loves tea! Like, adores it! Sometimes some of her royal aides come to buy her tea. She takes some small measure of pride in selling the same teas the queen loves oh so much! It's Queen Alicia's favorite! Sienna wonders if it's her imagination, or are there fewer things on the shelves than usual…? Lily wonders if we want a copy of the Liberl News' Martial Arts Competition Special Edition? Good for spectators and participants alike! Would we?
When the last of the Special Ops Unit slowly sank to their knees, the referee raised his hand, and the entire arena erupted in fanfare.
The competition, which got off to a rocky start after the change from single to team matches, had yet another unforeseeable surprise awaiting eager fans, in the form of a team of unlikely victors led by Zin Vathek of the Calvard Republic. Was there anyone out there who could have anticipated such a feat?
A martial artist, two bracers and a musician; an unheard-of combination, to say the least! Yet, this is the group that advanced to the finals and took the crown by defeating the elite of the Special Operations Unit. It just goes to show, it's not over till it's over!
The winning team's members continued to work effectively by leveraging their individual talents in complementary harmony with one another, playing off of each other's strengths. The competition itself was an event replete with powerful, heated battles and unique team dynamics, which ended explosively to a thunderous ovation. The Liberl News wishes to honor the valiant efforts of all those who participated in this year's proceedings.
Winning Team Invited to the Royal Banquet
In a ceremony held at the conclusion of the competition, the winning team was awarded a cash prize of 100,000 mira and an invitation to the royal banquet. This formal dinner will be hosted by Duke Dunan von Auslese. The mayors of each city and other various persons of influence are also scheduled to attend.
[Society] The Queen Shows Signs of Recovery
The Liberl News has been informed that Her Majesty the Queen, who has been recuperating, is expected to return to her official duties soon. The anniversary celebration, which was in danger of being postponed, will now assuredly be conducted on schedule.
In recent days, with unsettling news becoming the norm, it is certainly wonderful to receive such joyous tidings.
[Society] Intelligence Division Steps Up Defense
The search for the officers of the Ex-Royal Guard accused of acting as ringleaders in a series of terrorist-related incidents has proven to be an onerous one, and after making little headway, the Intelligence Division decided to station members of their unit within the Royal City, in a move to further step up defensive measures. All security positions covering Grancel Castle are also expected to be relegated to the same unit.
[Society] Ancient Dragon Sighted?
Reports have made their way to our news desk regarding the sighting of an enormous silhouette making its way across the sky above Ravennue Village, located in the northern part of the Bose region. Public speculation revolves around whether or not the object in question is, in fact, the ancient dragon which has been living in the world since before the Great Collapse.
According to statements by a number of researchers, the Bose region was the last place the ancient dragon had been sighted, giving further credence to the claim that the great creature may still presently be living among us. Research concerning the ancient dragon has also begun to take a leap into the public spotlight as of late. These purported signtings have, of course, only fueled researchers' excitement.
At the History Museum, Licia says that with the competition wrapped up, the streets should get a bit quieter. What do we think is going to happen with the Queen's Birthday Celebration? It's going to be canceled for sure, don't we think? They wouldn't celebrate if the queen is still sick, right? They couldn't. Could they?! Santos got a letter from the museum director in Bose. Apparently he's stuck there, thanks to the airships being grounded.
Upstairs, Professor Alba mentions Liberl's history is quite long - and more than a little sordid. Its roots go back more than a thousand years, as he understands it. Estelle recalls that Liberl's only been Liberl as long as the royal family has been around, so does that mean the royal family is that old?!
Alba confirms they are - he, for one, would love to tour inside of that castle, and see what ghosts he could dig up. We got to see inside of it yesterday, didn't we? What was it like? Estelle admits it felt pretty old and historic, she guesses, and Joshua confirms there was definitely a lot to see in there. We weren't really given much of a chance to see it, though, so we can't tell him anything that he wouldn't already know. Alba is disappointed, and supposes he'll just have to wait until the castle is reopened to the public, like everyone else.
A soldier near the arena mentions this place got rather quiet after the tournament. Another argues that they're patrolling endlessly and keeping all the access gates shut, so finding those terrorists is just a matter of time! A third soldier complains that the terrorists still haven't been caught, which is probably why he's still standing guard here… but they're all, frankly, rather exhausted…
At the Landing Port, Sophina mentions the Royal Army's gone about shutting down all the orbal-ship platforms. Sounds like trouble is a-brewin' to her… Finella in her ticket booth gives her deep apologies for any inconvenience. The Royal Army's put a hold on all passenger and shipping flights today as an anti-terorrist countermeasure. They'd be happy to offer us a full refund on our tickets, if we'd like.
Tiffany furiously declares that her anger is rising! They're never gonna catch those damned terrorists. She swears the army's collective I.Q. is like twelve! Swaggering around like that, it makes her sick! …Huh, where did Payton get off to? Carnero says he's been run out of his workplace. Damned military types shut it down on him! The airships are all grounded, too. What the hell is going on?!
At the Liberl Orbalship Corporation, Filder tells us the Royal Army has closed the landing platforms. Again. Give him a break already! Sasha informs us tickets and reservations have been getting canceled left and right. Shouldn't be any surprise, though, you know? The airships are all grounded, after all.
A Royal Army Soldier informs us the Grancel Landing Port is closed for the time being, for the good of the people!
Two more soldiers are guarding the stairs to the lower docking strip, and tell us that civilians shouldn't have any business here! They'll have to bring us in for questions if we insist on loitering in this area. Sorry, but they can't take us at our word when we claim to be bracers. Hopefully we can understand that. Move along, now!
North Block
Becker says that yesterday there were a lot of soldiers patrolling the landing port. What happened there?! Noel says that with the tournament over it'll soon be time for the queen's Birthday Celebration, but… nobody knows anything about Her Majesty's illness or what's happening around here in general! She guesses it makes sense that Duke Dunan would be acting in place of the queen, given the circumstances, but still… Why don't we know more?!
Palmer remarks that everywhere you go, you see those Special Ops soldiers! And yet they haven't found even one of those Royal Guardsmen yet… Godfrey says that final match was cra-zy! He was drinking so much to… uh… commemorate the victory… that he wound up waking up in a very unfamiliar place in the morning. In circumstances he… would prefer not to recount, thanks. Guard duty must be the pits. All he's doing is… well… loitering. But those soldiers keep on questioning him like he's some kinda terrorist! Near the castle entrance, Armand murmurs that he looked all over town… and the best place to pop the question is right in front of the gates, he thinks… Ellie mentions Armand has been talking to himself all day today. She knows he's got something on his mind, but he just won't tell her what it is… He can be such a meanie! Time to bust out the pouty face!
At the southwestern house, Helena is relieved that there's finally a moment of peace in her home, sweet home! Martin wonders what, at this rate, will become of this Birthday Celebration? It's such a monumental event every year… To cancel it would be the shamest of shames! (sic…) Marian swears that her husband is far more concerned with what's to become of the celebration than any grown man should be! At his northwestern house, Helmuth sighs in despair and declares that he would give up fishing entirely if only she came back home to him…!
At the gates of the castle, Private Aluts wonders how the banquet was? He only got to see the food during his rounds inside, but didn't get to eat any of it, sadly… Private Dan asks if we enjoyed our looking around the castle? A soldier near the hotel hopes to catch those terrorists before the Birthday Celebration ends… so they can go out on a happy note this year, you know? Another tells us that if we see anything unusual or unlawful, we should be sure to let him know. A third informs us that we're in the way - please, we should just move along already! The terrorists could be anywhere, and anyone. He's got to keep a close eye on the crowd… A fourth still can't buy the Royal Guardsmen are terrorists. It's pure crazy talk! They like to talk as if they're all pomp and ceremony, but they really do know better.
West Block
Sharnelle hopes she'll get to see Princess Klaudia at least once during the Birthday Celebration. She's so cute, in that 'girl next door' way. Wish she had a daughter like her… Peter says he crossed paths with one of the nuns from the cathedral early this morning. Where could she have been going at that time of the day…? Private Datten says there are rumors that the terrorists who claimed to be bracers just… up and ran! They got through the Zeiss inspection and then disappeared to who knows where!
At the Grancel Cathedral, Cisna mentions there's a new cloistered nun, but she hasn't seen her around today. She prays she's not taken ill… Sister Noah tells us Sister Ellen has no sense of direction, it seems, but she's extremely courteous and very, very devout. No one is perfect, though, of course, and we must always remember that it's our imperfections which make us special. Bishop Reval sermonizes that for every meeting, there must also be a parting. Each goodbye is a new hello in waiting, and this rule shall remain steadfast throughout each of our lives. Life moves ever forward, pulled by threads we call destiny. There is no beginning, no middle, and no end - there is only the human condition. There is no way we, as men and women, can fully conceive of this universe within which we dwell. That is something only the Goddess, Aidios, can properly envision.
At Baral Coffee House, Baral wonders if we don't happen to have the complete collection of the 'Carnelia' series lying around somewhere, would we? Wow, we do?! (What are the odds?) He explains he'd always meant to buy every new volume when it came out, but never got around to it. He was like, he can always read the whole series when it's finished, right? Now, though, it's pretty much impossible to find the whole set for sale in one place! He begs us, please, would we be willing to part with yon collection of tomes?
If we say yes, Baral freaks out in excitement - we will? Really?! Ohmygod…! He thanks us profusely, then explains that he works in diplomatic relations, and just got back from assignment in the far east. He's built up a pretty impressive little collection of eastern goods too, if he does say so himself! He'll let us have one of his rarer items in exchange for what he seeks… We're bracers, no? Hmm… Let's see what he's got that might catch our eye… Right, it's between these two! Which one intrigues us more?
We then get a choice between the 'Mystic Stave' and the 'Twin Plovers' - and these would be the ultimate weapons for Estelle and Joshua respectively. You can only get one, so pick carefully! Joshua's got the better S-Craft so I end up going with that, but I don't think it massively matters (since the second-best is still pretty good.) Still, this is a pretty neat reward for a collect-a-thon background quest!
Baral says the weapon suits us nicely, then informs us that he's gotten a notification to close shop early today, so he's got lots of time to read! Those Special Ops guys were grumbling about some search mission… He caught bits and pieces - something about 'Royal Guard','citizen','uncooperative' and, er, some more colorful metaphors, let's say…? What do they expect? The Royal Guard is very well-respected!
Connor says the Royal Guardsmen may seem a bit antiquated by modern standards… but to see them sticking to their rules of discipline was… simply breathtaking! Nana wonders if they're even having the Birthday Celebration this year? She heard the queen's gotten sick, so maybe the party's gonna get canceled… Phoebe says she's got nothing to do until the celebration…
At the Liberl News Service, Sariah says everyone is all caught up in the Queen's Birthday Celebration… but with all this hubbub, is it even going to happen this year?! Popular rumor is that it's going to be canceled, and the queen hasn't made any official announcements to debunk that. Faults complains that the airships are all stopped, aww! He was all ready to go cover the Anterose in Bose… Now he has to think of something else to write! Cruel fate, why must you mock him so?! Noticia says Nial was so reckless when he first started this job - really he's still pretty reckless! That's probably why he gets the goods…
At the house near the church, Dalia tells us that Madam Katrina put in a request with the Royal Army to find little Rianne. There's been no word, so far… Katrina admits her granddaughter Rianne hasn't come home since yesterday, and she's received no tact from her husband either, as usual… Oh, what to do, what to do… Both as a wife and as a grandmother, she must remain ever vigilant. Familiar relations are not to be taken lightly!
Phelio remarks that they just sold a house around here recently, and he wishes he was living there - this place is too small! If he worked hard enough, he could take out a loan and buy a place of his own… Lakeisha says that not two seconds after he left, her husband ran back in raving about them buying a house. It's hard enough for them to pay rent on this dump each month… So how are they supposed to afford a mortgage?! She finally told him to stop screwing around and find himself a job, and then they'll talk! For better or for worse, for richer or poorer… till death do them part… ugh!
Duncan says the Birthday Celebration should be starting up soon, now that the competition is done - a lot of people came to the capital for that, completely unaware that Her Majesty had fallen ill. It would be a disaster if they should just up and cancel the festival now… Seagaro says his wife always has to leave early each morning, so he's in charge of making breakfast. Lunch is by their own means, and whoever gets home earliest is the one to make dinner. Edel guesses she'd better get over to the store…
A soldier mentions that a girl who lives nearby hasn't come home yet. He just heard about it from base, and he sure hopes she's found soon! A second outside the cathedral says they're not giving anyone any details on Her Majesty's illness, including them. All they can do is to keep patrolling. They have their orders, after all. Another soldier near the Liberl News Service building remarks that there seemed to be some kind of commotion with the workers here. Did something happen? Hmm…
Grancel Area
At Sanktheim Gate to the west, Private Wolpe heard that General Morgan of the Royal Border Patrol is really intimidating, but he's in the schoolbooks too, so he's definitely a great man! Private Olnis says there's nothing to report - the Martial Arts Competition is done, but the birthday celebration is up next, so they gotta stay frosty… They don't know when the terrorists are going to hit. CWO Dale thinks the terrorists are planning to strike during the birthday celebrations, so they have to stay vigilant!
Talia the innkeeper has to wonder if those soldiers aren't worn out from being on alert all the time. She guesses that's their job, though, so they've got to accept it. Private Wayne says that with the birthday celebration and the tournament back-to-back, there have been so many people. The number of travelers has decreased lately, but they've got to watch for terrorists… They're on full alert, as usual! Warrant Officer Talbot has seen a big increase in orders from Intelligence come through as of late. It might be due to Colonel Richard becoming personal adviser to the duke.
Cook Sanders says it doesn't matter how busy you are, everybody's gotta eat! Time to plan the ultimate meal for all his hungry soldiers! Waitress Tammy remarks that the soldiers surely have been busy lately, haven't they? It's so boring here by herself… On the roof, Private Chesley says there doesn't seem to have been any terrorist activity in Zeiss recently. Maybe they got away?
At Gurune Gate to the east, Private Stoll welcomes us… or that's what he'd like to do, but starting yesterday all checkpoints in the kingdom have been put on lockdown. They're not conducting any pass procedures at this time. Private Barranco heard a royal banquet was held at the castle, but did Her Majesty attend? It would be great if they could get an official announcement about the queen's condition and her birthday celebration some time soon. CWO Robin says that finally all the checkpoints have been sealed off, and all flights are grounded. Even for someone like Colonel Richard, he doesn't know if this is something appropriate to order without the approbation of Her Majesty…
Private Anden informs us all the checkpoints throughout Liberl are closed. He really apologizes, but this is in order to seal off the terrorists' movements. Warrant Officer Graves says that they received a transmission from headquarters yesterday which indicated that the checkpoint was to be completely sealed off. Sorry, but nobody besides military personnel will be permitted to pass. Sam tells us the soldiers were talking with pretty scary faces… Did something happen? Emily admits that when the soldiers are frantic, she gets a bit anxious. Hopefully they can see in this year's festival without incident…
Up top, Private Selbourne says that when he was standing guard here before, he could have sworn he saw a little girl. When he rubbed his eyes and looked again, though, she was nowhere to be found. He wonders if he's running on too little sleep…? Private Thomas mentions that Selbourne told him about seeing a little girl on the wall while he was on duty. He's sure the guy was just seeing things, since he hasn't seen his daughter for so long…
And hey, best of all, you don't need to cross the map and talk to every single NPC after every single cutscene now. At least, not for the books. You'll still be doing it, obviously.
Did not expect that random side-plot from the first hour of the game to somehow stick around for the entire length of the game, but it's emblematic of how much this game commits to its side-characters and ancillary content. Each of these towns and regions have way more identity than basically any town at all in Wild Arms or other JRPGs I've played. The FF7 remake went out of its way to add more of that to Midgar because even that honestly didn't spend much time on anyone that's not in the core cast...
I think this is the second time the paper went out of its way to call out dragon-related rumors, after that first time in Bose? I guess it's a cryptid kind of thing. Santos at the museum also went on about them at some point, explaining that apparently the local dragons were straight-up intelligent beings that stuck around until a couple decades ago? I assumed it would come up in this game after we got some early implications of draconic presence, but no dice. I assume this will come up in the sequel if you're mentioning it here, lol.
Also congrats on your ultimate weapon. Book hunting is its own reward, but getting some bonus stabbies is also always nice.
And hey, best of all, you don't need to cross the map and talk to every single NPC after every single cutscene now. At least, not for the books. You'll still be doing it, obviously.
Because men with no social skills suffering is funny, apparently.
There's actually a cheevo for finding him at every possible juncture in Sky SC, similar to the books, except he doesn't get you a superweapon as far as I recall.
Trails in the Sky (Part 85) - Gathering Friends and Beating Up AmnesiacsNew
Right, let's set off to deal with our lengthy pre-rescue checklist...
First, let's find those bracers! Upstairs at the weapon shop we run into Carna, who notices that we've got old man Zin tagging along with us too - what's going on? Zin admits it's a long story, and Carna gulps - sounds serious. We quickly explain the situation and the queen's request to her, and Carna is rather baffled. We're not… just pulling her leg, are we? She has to admit, she did find it a bit odd that all the gates and ports and such have been shut down… So, what did we want with her, exactly? Joshua notes that we're getting everyone together to formulate a plan, so she should head back to the guild where we can all meet. Carna agrees to head straight there!
At the Sunnybell Inn across the street we can find Grant having a drink. He heard we spent the night at the castle, and he's frankly surprised to see us back so early! Did we eat anything good? Estelle confirms we did, but that's not really what we're here to talk about! We inform him about the situation, and Grant is astounded - holy crap, are we pulling his leg? Zin states that we are not, and every word is true. He stakes his reputation on it. Grant figures if even Zin the Immovable is moved by this, that's all the proof he needs. He'll do whatever he can do to help - we can count on it! Joshua tells him we'll all be meeting at the guildhouse to plan our strategy as soon as possible, and he agrees to meet up with us there before leaving.
At the Edel Department Store we can find Anelace, who is pleased to see Zin and the new recruits. Back from the castle already? Estelle says that we are, she supposed… Joshua asks her for a moment of her time… Anelace guesses he's heard something juicy and is looking to share it with her, huh? Estelle says that if by 'juicy' she means 'spit your juice all over the place in shock' then yeah… it's a real juice-bomb. Anelace declares we have her undivided attention. Should we be talking about this here, or should she be sitting down for it…?
We move outside to the courtyard, where we inform Anelace about everything that's going on. Joshua clarifies, just to be absolutely clear, that this isn't a joke. Things could get serious in a big hurry, and if they do, we'll need her help. Anelace admits that, sorry, her head's still just a little scrambled from how screwed up this whole situation is. She doesn't really get all of this, but we want everyone to meet up at the guildhouse, right? Estelle confirms that Elnan will fill her in on the details. Anelace figures that she'll go and see what's up, then, before setting off to find the others…
At the Hotel, Fritz informs us that Kurt has returned to his room here, but he looked rather on the pallid side - hope he's all right! If we head to his room, we first see a glimpse of Kurt wishing to himself that he could remember that time a little better… It's like there's a thick fog blanketing the whole thing. As our group enters and greets him, Kurt is glad to see us, and is surprised Zin is with us as well. Zin reminds him we were going to that dinner party at the castle yesterday, right? That was when us rookies took on a pretty major assignment. Kurt wonders what that assignment was, then, and Joshua thinks it's best if we tell him more or less the whole story…
Joshua lays out all the circumstances that led to our request from the queen, and Kurt wonders if we're actually serious about this…? Of course we are. That's why we really need his help. Kurt says that's… that's not it. He admits he's shocked at Her Majesty's request of us, but that Black Orbment that the colonel has… It's real!? Kurt goes pale, and Estelle wonders what's wrong? Kurt…? The bracer suddenly cries out in pain, grabbing at his head as he collapses onto his knees with a scream. As Estelle freaks out and Joshua warily wonders what's going on, Kurt screams louder - and Zin tells us to step away from Kurt. As we quickly do so, Zin charges up some sort of super-move, taking in a deep breath before unleashing 'Shade Lift!' which sends Kurt flying across the room and into the far wall. Estelle is baffled - what was that?! He didn't even touch Kurt, and yet the guy acted as if he was being electrocuted!
Joshua concludes it was a special spirit-channeling breath technique - it allows the user to directly affect the body without physical contact. Zin admits he doesn't normally like to be so rough, but time isn't exactly on our side. He walks over to Kurt and asks him how he's feeling, and Kurt warily admits that, uh, wow - that's actually a lot better?
Kurt gets back to his feet and says that while he can't remember every detail, a good bit of what happened back then is coming back. He's a little unsteady from the shock, but he thinks he'll be alright… Estelle asks him what he remembers, and Kurt reminds us that he mentioned some of this before. There was an accident, around three months ago… He lost his memories while working. Someone had asked him to check up on those men in the black outfits, and then he took something suspicious from them… It was the Black Orbment! The person who gave him that assignment, yes, it was our father Cassius. He wasted no time in packaging up the time and sending it to him, but that's really as far back as he can remember…
Estelle, shocked, realized that the 'K' on that package was him, then! Kurt confirms he can remember there being a note that said to have Professor Russell analyze it. Ah, he gets it - that package was delivered to us, wasn't it?
Joshua wonders if he remembers anything after that, after he sent off that package? Kurt confirms that after he left the port, someone called out to him… It's no good, the rest is just a big blur. Zin thinks he's better off not pressing his luck, as it may cause strain he can't handle yet. Kurt acknowledges that, and is really just amazed he was able to remember anything at all… Estelle says this just brings us to a bigger question, like who would have done this? The Special Ops guys?
Joshua says it's possible, since they did use that nasty poison on Agate, after all. It's as if they're manufacturing and testing new drugs. Maybe they've made something to cause memory loss? Estelle thinks that sure is a cheerful thought. Plus there's the sky bandits' boss and Mayor Dalmore to consider… We have to be really careful. Kurt apologizes for not having anything really useful to tell us. Still, he knows what Her Majesty asked us to do, so he wants to help with that, if we'll let him. Estelle wonders if that'll be okay, but Kurt assures that while his memory may be like a sieve, he's physically fine. He owes us for our help, too, so we should allow him to make it up to us! Zin tells him to head back to the guild, then, and Kurt is quite ready to head out!
Returning to the guild, Elnan is pleased to report that all of the bracers have been assembled. Now, if we should hear from the Royal Guardsmen or that reporter of ours, things would go much more smoothly… Upstairs we can speak to the foursome we retrieved again. Anelace says that up until now things haven't made much sense, but she thinks she's starting to get it. When this much is on the line, you can't help but get a bit nervous, right? Heh… Carna says this is the first time she's had to handle a job this big. There's no room for error! Grant admits that he would have never believed it before today, the idea of Colonel Richard staging a coup d'etat! He's a pretty smooth liar, we must admit… Kurt says that earlier display was certainly embarrassing. He's bothered by his missing memories, but right now the queen's orders are foremost on his mind…
To follow up on the other leads, we can head to the church, where Archbishop Currant can be found in a side-room. He wonders who we might be? Estelle explains that we're, uh, members of the Bracer Guild. Bracers. We were looking for Sister Ellen…? The archbishop warily muses that we were, huh? Might he guess that we share complicity with her, then? Estelle scoffs at that - with a nun? No, ew! Joshua sighs and informs her that he was asking if we know her real identity. Yes, we're here with information she asked us to find. Currant apologizes, but tells us she's no longer at the cathedral - she came to say goodbye to him this morning, then left.
Estelle wonders where she might have gone? Does he know? Currant admits that if only he knew…! He's been close with the royal family for many years, see, and Julia has always regarded him as a friend and confidant, but this time she refused to give him any details. She no doubt wished to keep the church from getting too deeply involved in… whatever is occurring. We shouldn't worry, though. She had the light of hope in her eyes as she departed, so he's confident that she was not running away to wallow in despair, but for a more noble cause. Estelle figures that's good, at least. Thing is, we kind of need her to stay in touch with the Royal Guardsmen…
Zin figures begging for rain in the desert only gets you sand, so we should probably go. The best thing we can do is to covertly keep an eye out for other Royal Guardsmen. Joshua thinks that's not the most efficient plan, but it's what we got. Currant concludes we're between a rock and hard place, as they say… We should always remember that Aidios helps those who help themselves. Do all we can, and Aidios will surely take care of the rest! Hard and honest work will always lead us down the right path.
Heading over the Liberl News Service's first floor, we enter to find Dorothy speaking with the Editor-in-Chief. She says this is weird - they haven't heard anything in two days! The Chief muses that, well, he does tend to get completely wrapped up when he's looking for the next big story… Given how close they are to a state of martial law, though, he doesn't much like that he hasn't contacted them either. The Chief suddenly notices we've arrived, and Dorothy cheerfully greets us. Hi, guys! The Chief thinks this is perfect timing, while Estelle mentions we're here to speak with Nial - but she's guessing he's not around? The Chief confirms that's what they were just walking about. Nial hasn't shown up here today or yesterday… No word or anything.
Estelle is surprised. Huh…? Joshua mentions that we actually spoke with him in the evening, two days ago. Dorothy is shocked, and Estelle wonders why she's so surprised? She was the one who gave us the message to meet him, for Aidios' sake! We came here to speak with him after the semifinals. Dorothy recalls that, right, now that they mention it… Anyway, did he say anything to us, like where he was going…? We get to pick what happened from a list of a few options, and the correct answer is that Nial got a call while we were talking to him and he had to abruptly leave. We haven't seen hide nor hair of him since. Dorothy cries that she can't believe Nial is dead! Estelle tiredly wonders who claimed he was dead?!
Today's when all the airliner traffic got shut down, but everything was normal yesterday, so maybe he went to another province? The Chief says he already inquired with the landing port's passenger registry, and there was no sign of him, so he figures he has to still be somewhere in town. Zin muses that we two were the last ones to see this reporter fellow. Weren't we talking to him about something for a news article? These are the times we live in… Controlling the media is a big deal for the military. What does the Chief think?
The Editor-in-Chief certainly can't argue with that, particularly in the case of the Intelligence Division. They monitor and censor everything they do… We wouldn't believe how frustrating it is! Zin concludes this means we can't get much information for his stories, but it's in a reporter's nature to want to get as much as possible into the hands of the readers. Joshua guesses Zin is saying that Nial went to check out a new subject that the Intelligence Division hasn't started censoring yet… What was the last thing he was talking to us about…? Again, we can choose - and the correct choice is that we were talking to him about an alleged arranged marriage for Princess Klaudia…
Zin recalls that Duke Dunan mentioned something about this at the dinner party, too. The Chief is surprised that Nial told us about that too? It'd make a hell of a story if it's true! He mentioned having to get some evidence at any costs… Zin wonders how a reporter like Nial even learned about something like that, anyway? He would have thought that something like that would be known only to the royal family. Dorothy admits that he did say he was friends with someone who works in the Erbe Royal Villa… Completely off the record, but the terrorists are supposedly after the princess, so she's secretly staying in the villa for her own safety!
'I knew it!' Estelle cries, and Zin chuckles - the veil is lifted! Joshua guesses that maybe the person Nial was talking to was his friend in the villa, which would mean Nial is probably there, too. The Chief muses that if he knows Nial, he probably tried to worm his way in for an interview with the princess… If the soldiers saw him, they'd have arrested him on the spot! Dorothy tearfully declares that Nial is a goner, and Estelle wonders why she keeps coming back to that…?
Estelle muses that if he has been arrested, getting him out isn't going to be easy… Joshua agrees, and bets that he and Princess Klaudia are pretty much in the same situation. The Chief curiously wonders what exactly we know? Do we have some inside information into what's going on in this city… in all of Liberl? Estelle admits we really can't talk about it, and Joshua tells him he should just let the Bracer Guild take care of Nial. If he's been arrested, we'll see to it that he's released. The Chief reluctantly goes along with this, and asks us to do what we can. Dorothy begs us to please, please bring Nial back!
With all of that handled, it's time to head back to the Bracer Guild and inform Elnan that we didn't have much luck contacting the Royal Guardsmen or Nial - sorry. Still, we believe we've gathered the needed intelligence. Joshua quickly explains everything we learned from the cathedral and Liberl News HQ, and Elnan concludes that we now know with fair certainty that Princess Klaudia is inside the villa. It's unfortunate that we were unable to make contact with the Guardsmen, but at least we know they haven't been captured. Zin wonders if we should get started, then? Elnan thinks that yes, we should… We should work out the details of the rescue operation.
After everyone gathers together on the top floor of the building - us, the four bracers, and Elnan - he brings everyone up-to-date on all the pertinent details of the Intelligence Division's planned coup d'etat. Given this information, Elnan says we should consider ourselves under contractual obligation to Queen Alicia. Kurt admits he can barely believe what he is hearing, and he is ashamed of himself for not noticing something was amiss sooner… Anelace was suspicious of those Special Ops troops from the very beginning, but she really trusted Colonel Richard… Carna is dismayed that he was behind the sky bandits and Mayor Dalmore, too… we got completely snowed! Grant is quite sure we can't let them get away with it!
Elnan concludes that indicates they can all be counted on to cooperate in this assignment? Grant says that damn straight they are! Carna tells him to just lead the way, and Kurt argues he owes these guys a couple of black eyes. Rhyme unintended. Anelace agrees to go, too! Estelle thinks this is gonna be good, and Joshua agrees that we've got strong allies, so we'll prevail - without a doubt! Elnan decides it's time to lay out the details of the mission, then. We have to move fast, as there are lives at stake here… It's not the most elegant approach, but he believes taking control of the villa through a frontal assault is our best option. Grant agrees that we don't have the time to try and find some route to infiltrate, so that's the only real option we have.
Carna wonders how we'll be divided? Kurt suggests splitting up into two groups - a decoy team and a rescue team. The decoys wil draw the attention of the main forces, while the rescue team makes its way into the villa itself. Zin warns him that we're dealing with the Intelligence Division's Special Ops here, though. If he may, he'd like to suggest we also add an ambush team to adi the decoy team, and a second decoy team to assist the rescue team…
Estelle says we're really teeming with teams here, but why would we need all those…? Joshua concludes the ambush team would lie in wait until the decoy team draws out the enemy forces, and both can attack at once. Meanwhile, the second decoy team would attempt to break the enemy's ranks, allowing the rescue team easier access to the villa. Estelle guesses that's reasonable, as it might even the odds a little… Do we have enough people to spread among four squads, though…?
Elnan admits that we don't, really… He's contacted other guild branches, but with all the airships grounded we're pretty much on our own. Estelle is displeased - well, crap! If only we had Schera and Agate…! Elnan does agree with Zin that carrying out this operation with only two squads is risky. They may need to re-examine their strategy. Suddenly a voice speaks up from the floor below, declaring that if numbers are all we lack, maybe they can be of assistance…? A nun pops up from the stairs - Zin calls her 'Sister Military!', heh. She quickly removes her hood and greets everyone, introducing herself as the Royal Guardsman sub-commander, 1st Lieutenant Julia Schwarz! The Royal Guardsmen are here at our disposal for this operation! (They do like their dramatic entrances, don't they?)
Elnan quickly accepts this late addition, and says their participation will be most invaluable. Schwarz has nine soldiers in her squad, including herself, and they're stationed all throughout the city, incognito until called upon. She can assemble them within the hour. Estelle thinks that's great, but… how exactly did she even know that we were going to try to save the hostages? Joshua notes that we tried to find her at the cathedral and tell her, but she'd already disappeared! Schwarz apologizes for missing us, but all she knew is that we had accepted the queen's mission. She found that out last night. Estelle wonders how she could have known that last night? We'd only just met with the queen ourselves!
Schwarz admits she's aware of that, and says that they've got… sources… for military intelligence of this sort. All that matters right now is that Her Highness gave them the order to assist, and they're happy to do it. Estelle questions these sources of hers. She wants sources! Can she share some of hers? Schwarz hesitates, and Zin tells her to just leave it at no, Estelle. More importantly, the Guardsmen's assistance will give us the extra forces we need to fill out the ambush and support teams. Elnan agrees - with this additional manpower, he believes our chances of success have increased exponentially! We should start deciding on teams immediately.
Schwarz muses that we need two decoy teams, right? She believes five of her troops should be sufficient for one of those. Grant confirms that their Royal Guard uniforms should definitely catch their attention! Schwarz thought much the same. They'll target the Intelligence Division's aerial squadron, stationed just on the outskirts of the Erbe Scenic Route.
Estelle is surprised to hear about an 'aerial squadron' - she doesn't mean… Joshua concludes he does mean that the enemy airship is there. Zin recalls there is a stretch of land out there that's been completely blockaded. Schwarz informs us that according to her intelligence, only a skeleton crew of guards are stationed there, so if the Guardsmen attack they'll have no alternative but to call the villa for reinforcements.
Anelace agrees that sounds like good decoying, right there! When the reinforcements show up, the ambush team pops in and takes them all out, right? Kurt concludes that their quartet of bracers should form that ambush team, then. Grant figured that all those years of hunting down monsters in the bush would pay off one day… Carna reminds us they've got a gunner, too, so they'll be able to handle this without a problem. Elnan concludes that's two teams locked down, which leaves the rescue and second decoy team. Schwarz concludes that the second decoy team should also be comprised of her Royal Guardsmen. Special Ops will definitely drop their guard more readily to apprehend them.
Estelle concludes that leaves us to form the rescue team. Zin confirms all of the others will be acting to provide cover for us to get in. Ours will be the most important assignment on the field, by far. This is no game - we'll be playing an actual role in a crucial turning point for our history. We should make sure we're up to the task!
Estelle sighs. Sheets, no pressure… Schwarz tells her there's no need to worry, for we will persevere. History favors the just. Carna points out we're the Grancel Martial Arts Competition Champions to boot! Kurt figures they'll be the ones keeping the majority of the enemy forces busy, so hopefully all we need to worry about are the hostages! Estelle is touched by everyone's confidence in us, and Joshua says we can do this… We can do this. Estelle agrees that he's right, he's so, so right! We're gonna kick some Special Ops' special asses! Zin says that's the spirit!
Elnan concludes that we've got a plan, then. We're settled in. The operation will begin at nightfall, and we'll use the dark for cover. Once the operation begins, we won't have any opportunity to return to the city, so if we have any loose ends to tie up, speak now… or forever hold our peace. Estelle concludes this is getting pretty real. Schwarz tells us she'll ensure Her Highness is made aware of the plan. Joshua nods and says that all right, everyone, we meet again tonight. Here. Got it?
After finishing the meeting, Anelace muses that it looks like we haven't had a moment's rest since everything started. We should take a moment to get everything squared away! Kurt says we're the only ones who can possibly pull this off. So let's get pulling! Grant is disgusted that Intelligence has resorted to using hostages… Let us go save a princess! Carna hates to leave the breaking and entering to us, but she believes we can totally do it! …What? Anyway, it's rescue time!
Next: Let's raid Erbe Royal Villa and rescue ourselves a princess!
Most new developments in this update are characters determining what a chunk of the audience already figured out, like what the fuck happened to Kurt. I do appreciate Zin being able to just punch the amnestics out of a guy, though, as well as the attention to detail Trails puts into things like paramilitary ops. Very seldom is it just "storm the castle", anything that's important usually gets a pretty detailed plan like this - helped by the fact that the player characters are Bracers/cops/(nominally) military/Bracers but edgy and so actually work as organizations of sorts.
Most new developments in this update are characters determining what a chunk of the audience already figured out, like what the fuck happened to Kurt. I do appreciate Zin being able to just punch the amnestics out of a guy, though, as well as the attention to detail Trails puts into things like paramilitary ops. Very seldom is it just "storm the castle", anything that's important usually gets a pretty detailed plan like this - helped by the fact that the player characters are Bracers/cops/(nominally) military/Bracers but edgy and so actually work as organizations of sorts.
I'm currently editing the run-up to the final dungeon, and that has a similarly multi-part with several prongs... but it also includes 'storm the castle' as one of them, so that's amusing. ^-^ Judging by how far I've gotten atm, I think this LP will round out to 90 or 91 total updates? It's chonky.
I'm currently editing the run-up to the final dungeon, and that has a similarly multi-part with several prongs... but it also includes 'storm the castle' as one of them, so that's amusing. ^-^ Judging by how far I've gotten atm, I think this LP will round out to 90 or 91 total updates? It's chonky.
And let's see...depends how you break up the penultimate and final dungeons, considering you don't really have to write about normal battles and most of the story content in those is people speechifying and a lot of stuff happening at once you won't have context for until late next game. As long as you're aware the denouement is going to need one if not two dedicated updates, Low 90s at least is a sensible guess. There's a lot of game in this game, especially if you're a completionist.
And let's see...depends how you break up the penultimate and final dungeons, considering you don't really have to write about normal battles and most of the story content in those is people speechifying and a lot of stuff happening at once you won't have context for until late next game. As long as you're aware the denouement is going to need one if not two dedicated updates, Low 90s at least is a sensible guess. There's a lot of game in this game, especially if you're a completionist.
Just looking over it now... 86 would be the rescue, 87 as one more exploration chap, 88 would be castle 1, 89 castle 2, 90 dungeon, 91 epilogue exploration, 92 epilogue? Something like that.
Trails in the Sky (Part 86) - Go, Go, Rescue Bracers!New
Once we've stocked up on items and other things - including an ultimate weapon - it's time to tell Elnan that we're ready. We go over the outline of our plan one more time, then set out to meet with everyone else. We soon find ourselves alongside the other bracers at one of the monuments scattered around the Erbe Scenic Route. Estelle concludes this is the spot we're going to meet, then? Joshua explains this is the Amberl Monument rest area, so this should be the place. The only real issue is whether or not Lieutenant Schwarz and her men can get here undetected.
Schwarz remarks from off-screen that we don't need to worry about that. Sure enough she has arrived alongside her compatriots. Estelle is shocked - whoa, when did they get here?! Zin laughs and compliments the blue-clad soldiers from staying hidden in Grancel. Nice work! Schwarz explains that they've got quite a few sympathizers among the citizens who helped them stay hidden. Anyway, they've finished preparations, so they can begin whenever we're ready. Kurt nods at this, and tells Estelle that we're now waiting on the order… her order.
Estelle is surprised by this, but Kurt points out that we were the ones who originally received Her Majesty's request, so they're waiting on our command to begin. Estelle reminds them that she's just a rookie, laughing nervously, but Carna says that really doesn't matter right now. She doesn't think she'll have a problem. Anelace just tells her to do it without shouting, okay? Schwarz assures her they'll be there to help, and they have no objections. Estelle goes red, but Joshua just tells her to have a little faith in herself. Zin agrees - she shouldn't worry about the trivial details. Just deal with things as they come! Estelle nods at that - right. Okay then, here goes… Everyone, let's get those hostages rescued!
We switch over to a view of the small Special Ops airship, which is currently parked in the water near the villa. Two Special Ops soldiers stand watch, and one complains that he's so freaking hungry, sighing in despair. Isn't it time to change shifts yet? The other tells him to come on and stay focused! There's no telling when the Royal Guardsmen might finally show themselves. The first argues there weren't more than ten escapees! If the colonel really put his mind to it, they could hunt the lot of them down in no time!
An off-screen voice announces that if they think it's so easy, they should go ahead and try… The two guards are alarmed to realize that it's Lieutenant Schwarz and a quartet of her Guardsmen! Wha…?!
Meanwhile, over at the Erbe Royal Villa, we see a small army of Special Ops soldiers and their monster mastiffs gathered out in front, where a Chief Warrant Officer tells them to all listen up - they have word from the Intelligence Division ship - they apparently have a lock on the Royal Guardsmen! If they get there quickly, this will be their chance to wipe them out! 'Roger!' the group declare in one voice as they speed off.
Back with Schwarz, we see that she and her men have taken out the two guards - that settles that! Moments later the reinforcements come rushing down the road, though, and they clump up to face off with the Royal Guardsmen. The CWO calls them idiots - the airship is locked down, so they'll never be able to use it! If they'd just done as the colonel said, they could have spared their lives, but now they're going to die here, and they've only got their own stubbornness to blame! Take this!
The moment the soldiers go to attack, though, a shell explodes in between them, and they're thrown into disarray when a quartet of bracers attacks them from behind, suddenly hemming them in severely. The CWO can't believe this - they can't be serious! Bracers are not actually going to try standing against the Royal Army, right?! Kurt is sorry to disappoint him, but he explains that they've all been marked as criminals. By order of the queen, Special Ops will let them pass!
Over with our party and the rest of the Royal Guardsmen, Zin concludes the ambush party is on the move. The Royal Guardsmen inform us that they'll go ahead and lure the remaining forces into the front gardens. We can break into the villa while they're distracted! Estelle thinks that sounds good, and Joshua wishes Aidios be with them all. With that we're left to wander, but there's really only one place we can right now - to the villa! As we approach, the Royal Guardsmen can be seen sneaking around, taking out several Special Ops soldiers and leading them around until they're out of sight of the doors. Near the entrance to the grounds Zin concludes that they went for the bait - now's our chance to sneak in!
We quickly rush forward through the gardens and to the front door, ending up in a huge, lavishly decorated, and rather empty foyer. Estelle is amazed - so, this is the Erbe Royal Villa! It's gorgeous, and certainly gives the castle a run for its mira… Joshua points out it is a royal family residence.
Zin warns us that it looks like we're not totally alone - the welcoming committee is here! Several Special Ops soldiers demand to know who we are?! Estelle declares they don't need to know our names, and Johsua agrees that words serve no purpose here. Let's go! After taking out a trio of pretty standard Special Ops guys who are pretty much chaff at this point, Estelle wonders which way we should go to the place where the princess is being held? Joshua says the villa is huge, so we'll just have to search it room-by-room. Zin figures if we just hang around here we're going to have more company soon, so we should get a move on!
There are two exits from the foyer, and we're ambushed by a group of Spec Ops soldiers no matter which way we go. After beating them up real quick, Estelle sighs and says that's not fun, getting attacked out of nowhere like that! Joshua concludes that there's still quite a few soldiers in the castle, so we should be careful. They're patrolling the corridor in the central courtyard periodically. Our only option is to silence anyone who sees us. In practice, this means that there's decent odds of random battles with more soldiers if we enter or exit rooms, but I think it's mostly pre-determined which ones are essentially trapped? The rest are mostly just empty rooms.
After a couple of empty rooms in the left corridor, we end up at a lounge, where we spot a quartet of soldiers having a breather. A chamberlain notices us entering and wonders who we people are…? Estelle concludes that crap, we totally picked the wrong room! Some of the soldiers are kind of drunk, but they don't recognize us - haven't seen us here before! What are we doing here? Joshua formally announces that we're with the Bracer Guild. Zin adds that there's no need to get up - they should just enjoy themselves and rest well! Then we rush in and beat the living shit out of them. Heh.
After the battle is finished, Estelle sighs in relief - well, that's taken care of! Zin chuckles and says theyré too drunk to really know what's going on. Joshua notes this is like some kind of bar, same as the one we saw back in the castle… The chamberlain, Raymond, begs us not to kill him…! He's not with them…! Estelle points out that we know that much. He works at the villa, right? Joshua explains that we've come to help at the request of Her Majesty the Queen. Raymond is amazed - we're honestly here to save them?!
Estelle asks him to calm down already, and Raymond takes a moment for a quick prayer before approaching. He thought he was done for when his reporter friend was taken away… He hopes he's all right…! Estelle guesses he means Nial, and Raymond is surprised we know him. Estelle explains that Nial went missing and is still unaccounted for, and Raymond confirms he was the contact that Nial had on the inside.
Raymond explains that Nial came to get an interview with the princess, who is being guarded here. HIs passion for his work is hard to argue with, so he wound up sneaking Nial in and showing him the way… Zin concludes he was spotted and taken prisoner, and Raymond confirms that's what happened - much to Raymond's shame, it was only then that he realized the severity of the situation. He heard that Her Highness was being kept here to protect her from any potential terrorist assault, but the truth is that she's being held prisoner by the Intelligence Division… He was so glad that she was coming that it simply had never occurred to him! He's truly unfit for his position… Estelle tells him that, come on, there's no need to be so depressed!
Joshua asks him if he has any idea where the prisoners are being held? Raymond confirms that he does - all the prisoners have been gathered in the Crest Room, which is the innermost chamber. It's a large banquet hall used for events like the formal signing of treaties. Zin concludes that's something we ought to check out! Raymond thanks us for helping him, and says that if we get tired, we should feel free to come back here to rest. He can get us beverages! A free rest point in a dungeon? Generous…
In one of the nearby rooms we can find various antiques which are definitely part of a puzzle of some sort -t here's red plates, scarlet vases, Eastern-style vases, rows of art catalogs on a shelf, and 'The King's Throne' on display - the latter being the favorite seat of the late King Edgar III when staying in the Erbe Royal Villa. After exploring a few more empty rooms (and beating up more guards) I check out the center-most door, which is locked. Estelle curses in dismay at this - aw, no! Joshua thinks the door seems pretty solid, and the locking mechanism quite secure, so we definitely won't be able to get in without the key. Zin thinks maybe we should go talk to that young chamberlain about this?
We return to the lounge and explain our findings to Raymond, who tells us that the key is normally in the possession of the Intelligence Division company commander, but he believes that man left when the terrorists showed up. Estelle is dismayed, and Joshua concludes that it was taken by the ones who ambushed Lieutenant Schwarz and her men. Not good - there's no time to go back there and get it. Raymond tells us to wait a moment, though - there's a spare key to that door, and it's around here somewhere… If memory serves, he believes it's hidden somewhere in the Gallery. We confirm that - roger, get to the Gallery!
Returning to the art room, we check the various vases for anything tricky, and the first couple don't have anything - but the last, largest vase is found to have something attached to its underside. It's the spare key!
Now, we should be able to use that to open that inner door and get deeper into the building! After beating up another few guards we inform Chamberlain Raymond before heading on, and he confirms we should be able to use that key to enter the Crest Room. Given that this indicates we're about to enter the final room, it's time to get our game-faces on. It's boss time… We use the key to enter a lavish red-carpeted hallway leading straight to our final destination.
Waiting for us near the door at the end of the hallway are two soldiers, who wonder who we are? Why do we look so familiar? Hold on, one of them recognizes us - we're the people who won the Martial Arts Competition! That means we're with the Bracer Guild, doesn't it? Zin confirms that's true, and Estelle wonders if we could persuade the two to forget they ever saw us? One of the soldiers tells us to shut it - they're defenders of an impregnable fortress. If we want to pass them, we'll have to go through them! Boss time!
[Boss: Heavily Armed Soldier*2]
Sheesh, these guys hit like trucks! They've got nasty area of effect attacks on top of their strong single attacks, so spreading out and buffing defense is a must here, plus they're immune to a bunch of status effects. Well, Chaos Brand still works, so having them hit each other with their overly high attack stats is pretty funny. So many enemies are weak to that, I swear…
Also, these guys' defenses are mostly geared towards straight-up hitting them or absorbing crafts, so unleashing arts can deliver a beatdown (as usual.) S-Crafts are also still great, and having everyone unleash theirs all at once can do plenty of damage even to these guys, which really helps with getting them down to low health. You can only really do that once, but since you can just grind soldiers outside with a free heal station in the lounge, it's not like you've got an excuse to show up here without full CP.
After taking down these two tanks and tossing them aside we rush into the next room, weapons ready - to find the hostages waiting for us in the next room? Huh. Nial is closest and turns around to face us in surprise. U-us?! Estelle declares we're here to save his bacon! Joshua comments that he doesn't look in too bad a shape, and Nial demands to know if he's serious?!
A girl's voice from not-quite-off-camera calls out to Estelle and Joshua, claiming she never thought she'd see us here! Estelle is confused, then realizes the one calling was Princess Klaudia - completely oblivious to the fact that it's clearly just Kloe with longer hair. She nervously declares it's a pleasure to meet her, and explains that we're with the Bracer Guild… The Princess muses that it's a little late for introductions, and says that we meet again - just as promised!
Estelle, still clueless, takes a few more long moments to finally realize… KLOE?! Kloe admits she's sincerely hoping Estelle was joking, as she really ought to have recognized her sooner than that. Estelle, embarrassed, points out that there's the dress, and the hair, and the things…! What happened?! Joshua apologizes for this whole situation - Estelle just doesn't know how to doubt people, you know? Estelle irritably wonders what that's supposed to mean?!
Kloe chuckles and says there's the Estelle she knows! She also seems touched that Joshua is still using that name for her, and he argues it's the one she prefers, right? Would she rather he use her real name? Kloe says she doesn't, and thanks Joshua for using 'Kloe', and says she's glad to hear it. Estelle, meanwhile, still hasn't caught on after all, because now she's wondering what Kloe is even doing here? And for that matter, why isn't the Princess here? (Seriously?!)
Nial points out that she's right in front of her, and Estelle just goes on tilt for a few moments. …Buh? Finally, after a few more moments, she lets out a primal scream of shock! Kloe - Princess Klaudia - apologizes that she couldn't tell us earlier. She had planned to tell us both the truth when we next met in Grancel, but then Colonel Richard had her 'detained.' Estelle wonders why…? Why would the princess be hiding out in an ordinary school?! And why did she have them call her 'Kloe?'
Kloe says, firstly, that she'd like Estelle to keep calling her by that name. Her real name is Klaudia von Auslese, while Kloe is a pet name that Jill came up with using births from her whole name. Estelle takes this in, then asks about the hair…? Kloe explains she's just wearing a wig right now - if she had the same hairdo as when she was on campus, it would probably just create trouble. Nial admits he missed the connection himself. He's seen the Princess's picture often enough, and he remembers Kloe from the mayoral scandal in Ruan, but he never put two and two together… Kloe apologizes, but it doesn't seem her Uncle Dunan or Mayor Dalmore recognized her, either…
Estelle seems dismayed that Duke Dunan is even related to her… Oh, but she forgot something important! She quickly explains the whole story, including how we came here to rescue Kloe at the queen's behest. Kloe takes this in, then thanks us - and Zin - deeply for coming to rescue her. Estelle argues it was nothing. Heck, if we'd known that it was our Kloe in here, no one would have even had to ask us!
Kloe is touched, while Joshua agrees there would have been no doubt of that. She should save her thanks for Her Majesty, though, as she's the one who deserves them. She had no concern for herself, just that we could save her granddaughter. Zin muses that her safety will give the queen the strength to resist the colonel's demands… Doing so may endanger her life, though. Kloe agrees that is her way… If something is not done, then she's in grave danger…!
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Trails in the Sky (Part 87) - Many Happy Returns, and Lengthy CutscenesNew
As everyone cheerfully celebrates their reuinion, a man's voice from off-screen announces that he thinks he's seen enough of this little farce!
The camera shifts to reveal a pair of Special Ops soldiers, one of which is a Sergeant, holding a little girl hostage - it's Rianne, who went missing in town earlier if you've been reading the exploration segments. Kloe recognizes her, crying out the girl's name, while everyone else gets their weapon ready and lines up in front of the princess. What the…?! Kloe explains that Rianne is General Morgan's granddaughter. He's been imprisoned at the Haken Gate, so she'd say they're taking her to keep him from causing any trouble… Joshua muses that's just what they did with her and Her Majesty, huh…?
The Sergeant holds a gun on us, declaring that this isn't just some idle threat! Every man in the Special Ops has a dream, and they will stop at nothing to achieve it! Estelle asks if he thinks that's something to be proud of? Kloe offers the Sergeant a deal. Please, she'll allow them to take her as a hostage instead, rather than the child. The Sergeant immediately dismisses this - he knows he said they'll stop at nothing, but even they don't have the nerve to harm a member of the royal family! General Morgan's grandkid suits them just fine, though. She's a valuable hostage, and it's not going to cause any real problems if she were to end up getting hurt…
Kloe calls them monsters, while Estelle figures she'd have said 'cowards' herself. Zin offers pathetic, disgusting, or sick… Pick an adjective. The Sergeant announces that we can talk all we want, but it's almost time for the patrols to return from the Royal Avenue. Then they can round up the Guardsmen and the bracers! Not bad for one night's work! A woman's voice suddenly speaks up from behind the man, declaring she's afraid that won't be happening, since they already took out his buddies on the way over here!
As the two soldiers spin around in shock, we see a whip suddenly lash out from behind and knock away one of the soldiers, before forcing the Sergeant to release his hostage. It's Scherazard! Schera quickly puts herself between a sniffling Rianne and the enemy, snapping her whip to keep them at a distance. When Rianne bursts into tears, she comforts the girl - it's all right, there, there…
Schera smiles as she turns to us - hey, long time no see! Estelle and Joshua are both surprised to see her here, while the Sergeant curses furiously. Damn it all! Who the hell does she think he is…?! As he goes for an attack, though, his gun is suddenly shot out of his hand from out of nowhere, and another off-screen voice - there's a lot of those, huh - sighs and says some people just have no manners, huh? Schera dashes forward to take advantage and punts the Sergeant across the full length of the room, and he smacks into the back wall with an 'OOF!' Schera tells him to think of that as her special gift. Estelle thinks that was just cruel.
But wait, who shot that bullet just now? Joshua guesses it was Olivier… 'Bingo!' the spoony bard announces. And the star makes his dramatic entrance! Please, hold your applause until after the performance has ended…
Zin chuckles and declares that the drama has turned into a comedy! He comments that it's nice seeing Scherazard again, after such a long time, and Schera agrees that it has been. Never thought she'd find him in Liberl! Honestly she was quite relieved when she heard that he'd fallen in with Estelle and Joshua. Zin figures she's overestimating his capabilities… like usual. As for Schera, well, she's only become more beautiful! He barely even recognized her! Schera blushes at that - O-oh, really?
Olivier coolly remarks that he's suddenly brimming with something akin to jealousy… Is he merely a toy to be used when convenient, and cast aside when boredom sets in…? Schera turns to Olivier and mentions that, hey, Aina's been waiting to see him. She's hoping to go out for drinks again. Olivier quickly backtracks and immediately asks for forgiveness - he's committed a grave offense! Estelle swears that none of them ever change… Joshua muses that it's nice to see Schera again, but how did she get here? He thought that the Royal Army had all the checkpoints completely sealed off… Schera agrees that's true, but they crossed Valleria Lake by boat and docked at Grancel Harbor! That's one way around that problem. Estelle wonders how she wound up falling in with this failed, excuse her, traveling musician?
Schera explains he ran into him at the local guild branch. He was like a lost puppy, so she didn't have much choice other than to bring him along. Olivier says he simply couldn't allow such an amusing and interesting show to go on without him…
Olivier asks who the fair lady behind us is, and Estelle figures that it's time for introductions, then! This is the queen's granddaughter, Her Highness Princess Klaudia. She's a friend of ours! Kloe says it's a pleasure to meet Schera and Olivier, and thanks them very much for coming to help. Schera tells her to think nothing of it - she's just doing her duty as a bracer. Olivier responds that he could scarcely consider himself a gentleman if he did not leap to the aid of a lovely lady of noble birth! The honor and pleasure at this meeting are entirely his own!
Yet another off-screen voice intrudes, and it turns out that First Lieutenant Julia Schwarz has arrived to see if the Princess is alright, and she is joined by Sieg, who flaps around the room and is pleased to be reunited with Kloe. The bird lands on Julia's arm, and Kloe says she's happy to see them again! As the screen fades out, we're told that before long the bracers involved in the diversion and the Royal Guardsmen joined forces, and after seeing to it that the rescued hostages could get some rest, Estelle and company gathered to assess their current situation.
When we fade back in, we can tell we're still at Erbe Royal Villa, but the Royal Guardsmen have taken up protecting it again, getting rid of the last Special Ops presence. In one of the many rooms there we can find Princess Klaudia, Julia, Sieg, our party, and Schera and Olivier. Schwarz declares that if not for her ineptitude, none of this would have come to pass… She's so ashamed she could take her own life, were it something to be permitted! Kloe tells her not to say such things, and that's she's just happy to see her alive and unharmed, and thanks her for coming to save her. Schwarz seems touched by the sentiment.
Estelle muses that it's not like she's not moved by all of this, but she has to ask… why is Sieg still here? Sieg lets out a cry, and Schwarz shuckles. Sieg is Her Highness's escort, she explains, as well as a messenger for the Royal Guardsmen. After all, did he not deliver the letter to our hotel? Estelle remembers that - right, they never did find out how that letter got in! Joshua figured it might have been Sieg, and concludes that Sieg must also be how she learned of Her Majesty's request… Schwarz confirms that she heard it from Sieg, as Her Majesty sent word through him from the Royal Keep. The Crest Room in which Princess Klaudia was held had no windows for Sieg to use, though… She was very worried when she couldn't make contact.
Estelle recalls that Schwarz just about gave her a heart attack, though, when she sent that message to our hotel room! She tells Sieg that was just plain mean of him to leave that letter and not to let us know it was him! The bird lets out a 'Scree…' while Kloe laughs and tells us he's saying sorry. Estelle decides it's okay, laughing it off…
Estelle then asks if all the Special Ops troops have been dealt with, then, for us to be talking like this? Schwarz confirms almost all of the soldiers in the villa have been restrained, but there are still quite a few left in Grancel Castle. Schera adds that much of the Royal Army is under Intelligence Division control, even outside of Grancel, so if we're not careful we run the risk of them seizing control of this building and branding us all as rebels. Estelle admits she hadn't even thought of that, and Joshua agrees that Schera makes a good point. It would probably be best if we were to get Kloe to a safer location, at the very least.
Kloe seems lost for words, but Olivier always has some to spare - perhaps we could seek asylum at the Erebonian or Republic embassies? Since they're considered foreign territory, it would make it very difficult for them to lay a hand on her. Zin mentions there's also that Special Ops ship that we seized nearby. We could use that to allow her to flee the country for the time being? It wouldn't solve the whole problem, but it would buy us some time to find a better solution at the very least. Schwarz agrees - regardless, we need to find some way to get her to safety. Kloe, still silent, closes her eyes.
Finally she opens them again, and addresses everyone. Um… She understands the difficulties of the current situation, but would it be possible to make an official request of the bracers? Estelle is surprised, but Joshua points out that the hostages are rescued and we've completed our current task, so he thinks it'll be alright. Of course, it depends on what the contents of the request are. Kloe muses that she has to ask us to do the impossible. Will we help her in retaking the royal castle and rescuing Her Majesty?
Schwarz blinks in astonishment, while Estelle is immediately on board, declaring that, right, this time we'll help the queen! Zin considers the question ridiculous, because the answer is obvious. Still, this is no small thing she asks for. Schera agrees with that… There's no chance a frontal assault would work, even with the capabilities of everyone here. Joshua muss that the captured Special Ops ship has potential, but we're going to need some kind of seriously clever trick.
Kloe has an idea, though, and asks everyone to have a look at something she's got with her. She then produces a very odd-looking map. We see a convoluted map on screen which covers several levels - and is helpfully labeled as covering the Grancel sewers. Right. Estelle clueless wonders what this is a map of, and Kloe explains it's an ancient diagram of the sewer system beneath Grancel. One of the things it lays out is the path that leads to the Castle Cellar….
Meanwhile, at Grancel Castle, a contingent of Special Ops soldiers have arrayed themselves in the throne room, where Captain Amalthea is speaking to Second Lieutenant Lorence. Amalthea wonders what the meaning of this is?! How can they have lost contact with the Erbe Royal Villa?! Lorence concludes it's most likely fallen to an external force, be it the Guardsmen or the bracers… Amalthea curses out those interfering little… Was Lorence not in command of that division?! Lorence smiles and says it's a pity, but what's done is done. Obsessing about it now will accomplish nothing. Furthermore, they must strengthen the castle's defenses to ensure that Her Majesty is not taken.
Amalthea insists she doesn't need him to tell her that! She turns to the soldiers nearby and commands them to have the castle gate sealed - not a soul is to enter from here on out! The only attacks she should need to worry about are the ones that come from the sky! Once that's done, they should scrape up troops from wherever they can find them - anywhere in Liberl - and send them to the villa! Priority one is to subjugate the terrorists who deceived the royal family! 'Yes, ma'am!' the soldiers bark in chorus before marching out.
Lorence remarks that that was nicely done, and Amalthea huffs before saying that of course it was. She's served with this unit for some time, unlike him! She turns towards the throne and declares that she will protect this castle while His Excellency is absent… no matter the cost! This she swears!
Back at the villa, everyone has now gathered together in yet another large room for mission prep - that includes all the Guardsmen and the other bracer team.
Schwarz lays out her plans for how we're going to free Grancel Castle and the queen! First, Joshua and two others will infiltrate the Grancel Sewers. They'll proceed to the Royal Guard Room and open the castle gate. Joshua says he's got it, and Zin figures it's time to set off some fireworks. Olivier knocks on the fourth wall by saying this does seem appropriate for the beginning of the final act. Schwarz continues, explaining that as soon as the gates are open, the Guardsmen and four of the bracers will make their way to the castle by way of the streets.
They'll need a real spectacle to draw all of the guards together in one place. Kurt says she's in good hands, and Grant agrees he's been looking forward to this! Finally… Schwarz pauses, before asking Her Highness the Princess if she's certain she cannot get her to reconsider? Kloe, back in her school uniform, responds that she's sorry, but she must be there to help her grandmother. She also knows how to pilot an airship, so hopefully she'll be able to put that skill to good use! Schwarz muses that if she knew this would happen, she never would have taught her…
Estelle promises that we'll look after Kloe for her, so it's okay. Schera swears she'll be kept safe, or her nickname isn't the Silver Streak! Schwarz says she understands, and asks us to do what we can. Anyway, once the men inside the castle have been concentrated into one area, Estelle and her team will set down in the Garden Terrace, then break into the queen's room and rescue her. Both operations will begin at the stroke of the noon bell - everyone should remain on alert until then. Alright, everyone's got their tasks - get to them! Dismissed! 'Yes, ma'am!' the Guardsmen respond in chorus.
In front of the villa, Estelle tells Joshua to please be careful - he shouldn't take any unnecessary risks. Joshua promises he'll be fine. Estelle should try to be on her best behaviour, too. She shouldn't overestimate her own strength, and make sure to watch Schera's back! Estelle agrees, and says that whatever happens, he should remember his promise! We'll see each other again, safe and sound, in Grancel Castle! Joshua tells her to count on it! Kloe tells Joshua that there's no telling what kind of creatures inhabit the sewers, so he should take the utmost care. Joshua promises he will! Schera tells him not to worry about Estelle, either - ah, we've both grown so much during this trip of ours! Not just in our skills and bracer qualifications, but in our heart… or so it seems to her. Estelle is embarrassed, while Joshua wonders what he means by that…? Estelle says it's nothing - save it for later!
Nial remarks that even in times of crises, you can always count on us brats. Zin agrees that's quite true! Now, he thinks it's about time to head out. Olivier hopes we'll meet again, lovelies! Aidios be with you! As the trio of men walk off, Schera whispers to Kloe whether she ever wonders if Estelle and Joshua have some kind of destiny in store for them…? Kloe softly admits that the thought had crossed her mind. They always have a smile for each other. She has to admit, she's even the tiniest bit envious…
Next: Let's see how the city is doing right now, then set our sights on the castle...
Estelle always rolls with disadvantage against people in princess dresses.
That's effectively part 1 of the finale down...they really should have made Grancel its own chapter and the climax the "final chapter" but a combination of breaking it into two games partway through and a slavish devotion to geography (since you don't technically leave Grancel province at any point) probably forced their hands.
Estelle always rolls with disadvantage against people in princess dresses.
That's effectively part 1 of the finale down...they really should have made Grancel its own chapter and the climax the "final chapter" but a combination of breaking it into two games partway through and a slavish devotion to geography (since you don't technically leave Grancel province at any point) probably forced their hands.
The Grancel chapter is comparatively long, yeah. I think the cutoff point would have been right after the castle - the entirety of Grancel you've been trying to get an audience with the Queen, after all! From there, everything is pretty much in endgame mode, even if there's still an opportunity or two to do a little side content.
Trails in the Sky (Part 88) - Royal City Exploration - Special Ops TakeoverNew
Setting the tone for this exploration round, Finel wonders if all these new black-clad soldiers are part of the Royal Army? They're so intimidating! Nonna explains that recently, the regular soldiers have all been replaced by… other ones, armored entirely in black. Why would that be? Raleigh thinks that the soldiers in black seem like real bad news! They're so creepy… Dick declares that all these soldiers around are seriously cramping his style! Troy wonders whether bad guys showed up or something? Berden has got a bad feeling about these people… A foul premonition, if you will.
Gaspard admits there sure are a lot of soldiers… He then turns to his stall and wonders what's broken now…? Ugh. Latanya says this sudden increase in soldiers without any kind of explanation is, understandably, a bit worrisome! She was going to paint the town today, but maybe she'll just go home… Tran hopes the Royal Guardsmen rethink their actions and go back to the castle. He's sure Queen Alicia won't hold it against them, as they were just following orders!
At Wingard Orbal Factory, Zacharias muses that these 'anti-terror' patrols are really restricting his customers' freedoms. What a fine mess this coup has made, no? Upstairs, Tom cluelessly remarks that there haven't been many customers today. Is something going on? At Weis Arms & Guards, Chaeli says they haven't had many customers today, and it's rather odd, since the weather is quite nice! Shepard wonders if we've seen them too? Those royal soldiers in black armor? They're really unnerving…
At the Fisherman's Guild, Fisher mentions that there was quite a fuss outside a short while ago… Y'know what fusses do? They scare fish! That CANNOT STAND! Lloyd declares that they're calling him… The Lenhardt River, the Valleria Shore, even Azelia Bay. They're all calling his name… Please, give him a rod…! Percy says it's kind of tough for outdoorsy types like them to be forced into places like this. He just hopes the airships get back into service soon.
At the northwestern house, Patty muses that all these soldiers are standing around and staring at them - she doesn't like it one bit! Ralph agrees that those black-clad men make him feel kind of… nervous. Maybe he'll just stay in. At the house by the Bracer Guild, Bill muses that something outside seems… off. Ilene is just surprised by all those soldiers out there… Trouble's a-brewin'.
At Sunnybell Inn, Spencer mentions that the town is randomly full of soldiers in black now! What happened to the regular troops? Why were they replaced?! Cready says these soldiers she's serving don't seem to understand what's going on. She certainly doesn't know what's happening either! Private Dan is here, and tells us that the Special Ops are supposedly keeping watch over the capital, so the Royal Garrison has been told to pull back. He doesn't agree with that order, though - honestly, he's not even sure who gave it! Private Aluts agrees that he has absolutely no idea what's going on around here. There are almost no regular military troops in the capital right now. He has no idea whatsoever as to the proper course of action from here on out…
One soldier near the inn notes that the castle is locked down - what happened in there?! A second soldier rants about those damned Royal Guardsmen… They'll teach them to defy Colonel Richard's orders! A third soldier wonders what we're lookin' at? Oh, we're bracers, are we?! If we don't want to get hurt, we'll get back to our guild and stay there!
East Block
Builna admits she hasn't seen the usual soldiers around lately… Did something happen at the castle? Marsha says she's supposed to be shopping, but something feels off. It's too quiet, even with all these people around. And all these guards make her nervous! Laone mentions the Royal Garrison all pulled back in a hurry - that does not bode well! Anton says that Ricky acts like such a slacker, sometimes. Doesn't he have any kind of drive at all? Ricky wonders what he wants to do…? Well, he guesses it would be cool to have a nap in Grancel Castle's Garden Terrace. Lifa is surprised to see us at the arena again - what's the matter? We look troubled. Something on our mind?
Private Tact observes that all of the regular troops have been replaced with Special Ops. All of them, that is, except for him! He's staying here until he's directly ordered to withdraw. Because that's what heroes do! His counterpart Private Bergan says that it seems all the other guardsmen have withdrawn from the embassy. He hasn't gotten any direct orders to leave his post, though, so here he shall stay! It's his sworn duty, after all.
Sorbet observes that all these soldiers sure seem busy with something. Wonder what happened? Carla mentions they're here in the capital for the Queen's Birthday Celebration, but she's worried about being so far from home with the airships being held up so often. Lucia justs wants more ice cream! Clarice tells us she was supposed to work today, but the boarding platform was closed and locked down. It might be an anti-terrorist thing… She has no idea. There's just been so much of that lately! Nemo wonders how much long his mom is gonna talk? Robyn says those soldiers in black sure seem to be all over the place! Is there some kind of drill?
At Edel Department Store, Edel mentions they have a big campaign for the start of the Birthday Celebration. Things may be rough, but they don't have time to mope - there's much too much to get ready! Danton says that if one of the Royal Guardsmen came running here, he would hide him, no questions asked! There's no way that Lt. Schwarz is a terrorist - no way! Terell worries that nothing can happen with all of these soldiers on guard, right…? He might go home early today. It… seems like a good day to hole up in safety somewhere! Lily informs us that she's been catching some of the gossip from the soldiers, and it seems they're trying their damndest to catch the head of the Royal Guardsmen.
Midee muses that her insults towards her sister haven't been very good, have they? Give her a sec, and she'll come up with something much meaner to say! Like that she's the better tea seller, so NYEAH!
Kitty suggests that if we like milk tea, why not try a Calvardian blend? If we like tea with lemon, she recommends we try the norgil tea from North Ambria. Sienna is worried about all these black-clad soldiers all over the place. It really makes this city look like a police state!
At the History Museum, Licia thinks something really doesn't seem right out there, today. Can't put her finger on what it is… It's quiet, too quiet, and it's been so raucous lately, so this silence is all the more deafening by comparison… Santos tells us they had some Royal Army soldiers in here yesterday. They were asking around if they'd seen any troops from the Royal Guard. Kind of alarming, no? They looked really frustrated. Upstairs, Professor Alba remarks that we seem stressed. Is something the matter? You know, he's always said that the harder the job, the better off you are by just taking it easy. That's the key to true success. Haha, maybe that means he has the hardest job, because he'll tell us, he takes it EA-SY!
A soldier near the arena wonders what we want? Stop making googly-eyes at him! Another soldier near the department store tells us we really earned that championship, since Commander Lorence really fought hard in the finals! He's a real force to be reckoned with. A third mentions that people haven't seen Colonel Richard anywhere - not even inside the castle. Where the heck could he have gone?! (Interesting.)
At the Landing Port, Sophina says that if they can't fly out, she'd at least like to get in contact with her family… Finella sighs to herself and wonders when they're going to get back to business as usual again? Tiffany tells us she's had it up to HERE with those army guys! She wishes they'd just LEAVE THEM THE HELL ALONE! Carnero mentions that the Royal Army soldiers have all been replaced by those in black armor, and they're at least ten times more intimidating. But maybe that's the point?
At the Orbalship Corporation, Filder tells us he saw a nun heading over to Payton's house a little while ago. He wonders if she's helping him through the shock of the Arseille being seized… Sasha says they've got an open holiday schedule, but no business! This sucks…
A soldier on the upper deck says we all look suspicious to him. Are we with the terrorists? We should get out of here before we get ourselves hurt. One of the guards leading the stairs down wonders what we bracers want? The other asks who we think we are? We might want to get home and in bed before we have an unfortunate accident…
North Block
Becker tells us the landing port is closed, and no one can get in or out of the country right now. Not by air, anyway. Once he finishes this delivery, his work's done for the day! Noel says all the regular, run-of-the-mill soldiers have been ordered away, and those black-armored guys are even guarding the castle gates! Something about that… doesn't bode well. Palmer concludes that without warning the Royal Garrison has been completely replaced by these Special Ops guys. Can't help but think something terrible must be happening in the castle… Godfrey yawns, and says he'll check out that coffee house in the West Block and get something to wake himself up. Well, the soldiers are up early, it seems…
Armand tells Ellie he's got something very important to ask her… 'Ellie, I...' Ellie declares that oh, she thinks it's time. Their time… is now! What'll she do… if he hears her heart racing? Should she even care…? (Pop the question, my dude!)
At Hotel Roenbaum, Fritz has noticed that all the regular guards have been replaced by ones in black. Considering how close it is to the time of the Birthday Celebration, there seems to be an awful lot of unrest… Miele decided to splurge a little, and spend the Birthday Celebration in style at a nice hotel. And what a hotel it is! This place is just incredible. Biggest in the kingdom, indeed!
At the southwestern house, Helena wonders how depressed her Dad would be if they canceled the festival this year… It makes her nervous to see him sitting there so quiet. He's pretty much a ticking time bomb… Though she guesses she's the same way, kinda. Martin just sighs to himself… Marian admits that something about the town just seems… off. There's only these black-clad soldiers around, none of the regular ones...
At the northwestern house, Helmuth asks us to hear him out, okay? His wife, who's been missing for some time, has finally come back home! She said she's been off practicing her fishing these past few days, if we can believe it! And even though she's only just started, she's apparently already gotten better at it than he is!
His wife Norche laughs to herself, and says her husband is so wrapped up in his fishing that she decided to try her hand at it too. She could hardly believe how much she enjoyed it! She just completely lost track of time, she was so wrapped up in the moment…
A soldier outside the hotel curses that he's got nothing to report. Drat! Another soldier tells us to move - get outta his way! A third tells us they've been charged with protecting the capital. They don't need anyone else for the job, they can handle it on their own - and would actually PREFER to handle it on their own!
At the Grancel Castle gates, one of the soldiers concludes we're the bracers who won the tournament, right? The banquet is over, we should go back to our guild. The other explains that the castle is totally locked down right now. They're under orders not to allow anyone to pass.
West Block
Sharnelle fearfully wonders what's going on…? Peter overheard some soldiers talking, and it seems the Royal Guardsmen have gone into hiding in the capital. So all those rumors about the terrorist attacks are actually true…? Maybe he should get out of here… Private Datten can't say exactly when, but the Royal Garrison seems to have been completely replaced by Special Ops soldiers. What in the name of Aidios is going on inside the castle?!
At Grancel Cathedral, Archbishop Currant remarks that we have a certain fire in our eyes… If there's a place we must go, he suggests we go there immediately. Aidios will guide our way! Cisna says there seemed to be quite a commotion outside earlier… She's curious as to what it may have been. …No, she mustn't allow herself to be distracted. She must pray! Sister Noah mentions that soldiers are still scouring the city to find the Royal Guardsmen. The Royal Guard is highly trained, so locating them is not an easy task… Bishop Reval muses that the soldiers seem to have gotten themselves in a frenzy about something. What happened?
At Baral Coffee House, Baral mentions that the Royal Army has pulled back, and those soldiers in black have taken over guard duty. The citizens are none the wiser as to what's happening behind the scenes… People get nervous when they can tell something fishy is starting to happen. Connor says that if you spend your day poring over books and news articles it teaches you to… notice things. Like that there's something going on behind our backs that we're not supposed to know about… Nana asks Phoebe if there's anything she wants to do? She's bored. Phoebe suggests going to get some ice cream sometime? She knows the BEST place!
At the Liberl News Service, Sariah wonders what's going on? All of the soldiers are being called to pull out of the city! The Editor-in-Chief concludes that Nial has been found at the Erbe Royal Villa, eh? He just learned that from the Bracer Guild. He can finally breathe a sigh of relief… Dorothy sniffles, thanking Aidios that Nial is still alive! Faults is not shocked to learn that Nial got arrested by the army. It had to happen sooner or later. Man, glad he got assigned to the culture section! Upstairs, Noticia muses that something seems off about the town lately…
At the house near the cathedral, where General Morgan's family lives, Dalia tells us that it looks like Rianna has been found! Thank goodness! Katrina thanks the Goddess, and explains that a worker at the Bracer Guild named Elnan contacted her a short while ago, and apparently Rianne has been found at the Erbe Royal Villa. She's so grateful to learn that she's safe… If something should have happened to her, she doesn't think she'd ever be able to face her parents again…
At the southern houses, Lakeisha wonders how long these soldiers plan on standing around the streets, anyway? Phelio tells us the port is closed, and nobody's hiring now anyway, so where should he try next…? Duncan wonders what the deal is with these soldiers in black? Their excess of arrogance is really starting to annoy him! They've been walking around the capital since sunrise. It ain't natural, and something is surely afoot! Seagaro is relieved that finally the house is clean! Time to head to the cathedral…
A soldier recognizes us as the people who won the tournament, right?! He's got his eyes on us. We shouldn't try anything funny! Another soldier mentions that Commander Lorence is inside the castle, so he doesn't think there will be any problems there. Their responsibility is to the city streets right now. They will keep them safe!
Next: Let's get this castle invasion on the road! In the first part we deal with sewers, femme fatales, toadies, and a real idiot to top things off...
Trails in the Sky (Part 89) - Castle Invasion 1 - The Lady and the MisogynistNew
As Joshua's party arrives in southern Grancel, he looks around and observes that the regular soldiers have been replaced with Special Ops guys. Zin concludes that the enemy has probably gotten quite desperate since we liberated the villa, so security seems a lot tighter than normal. Olivier wonders if we can help loosen them up with the dulcet tones of his lute…?
Joshua warns him that if he does anything conspicuous, that guy will be on him faster than you can say 'off key.' Mueller, was it? Olivier, scared, admits that is indeed his name. Ah, we should definitely, must, rather, NOT go near the Erebonian embassy. It could be quite dangerous. Yes! Perilous indeed! Zin chuckles and says neither of us has time to just drop by there. Once preparations are complete, we have to get inside the sewers…
With that we're left in charge of the dude squad - Joshua, Zin, and Olivier. Before moving on, I quickly head back to the Bracer Guild to check in with Elnan. He's quite glad to see that Joshua and Zin are safe and has already heard about Princess Klaudia's request from a member of the Royal Guard. He tells us not to worry about him. Even if the Royal Army were to get in here, he'll have no trouble pleading ignorance. Convincingly.
Anyway, job well done, everyone! The operation at Erbe Royal Villa was a complete success, so he'll take a moment now to pass out the bounties. We should use the money to prepare for our next battles! We are then awarded with a tidy sum of 20000 mira and 14 BP…
With that, we're off to the sewers again - which are getting kind of old hat by now. Entering near the arena, we return to the dank tunnels to find a third route to go down. As we descend the stairs, Olivier pulls out the map we were given and says he believes it would be in our best interests to confirm the location of the secret waterway… Joshua agrees, and we quickly put it on screen - and it's a jumble of hard to decipher stuff, as you might expect. The sewers are convoluted and interconnected, though you can figure it out with some trial and error.
Zin points out we're currently at a staircase mark on the lower-left (which I think is actually wrong?) and the entrance to the hidden waterway is where the '=' mark is depicted in the center. Notably, it's in the middle of a trio of identical walkways which end in a blank wall, so that should be identifiable! Joshua concludes we'll need to find that wall and then inspect the spot on the wall that's indicated. I've already seen that place before, on an earlier trip, so it's a matter of wandering around into the wrong hallways for entirely too long before finally arriving at the indicated location and checking the wall.
Joshua recognizes it as the correct location on the map, but Zin doesn't see anything special. Those royal family sneaks sure know how to hide things! Olivier agrees this will probably require a hefty amount of searching. Joshua says he'll go first… and finds the necessary trigger within seconds. Ah, here it is. As the hidden door slides open, Zin and Olivier compliment Joshua on his work - does he have some particular knack for finding hidden switches? Joshua says it's not a knack, it's just practice… You just naturally learn what to feel for. Olivier wonders about that claim. Joshua wasn't some kind of phantom thief in his childhood, was he? The kind that shows up in plays and suchlike? Joshua scoffs. Oh, please… Zin tells us to get moving - time isn't on our side, and this is the real deal!
Through the new entrance we reach the northern part of the sewer tunnels, which contain a few more items, including that last monster chest that was tantalizingly out of reach before, which contains a 'Reflector,' one of the best armors in the game. There's a second similar chest further in which contains the orbment Cloak - which is our real get, here. You know how Haze makes enemies not notice us? Cloak is basically that on steroids, since it completely turns off random encounters when equipped. You can run straight through enemies and they won't even notice, it's great! Unless you want to grind some levels along the way to power up, this is a must!
After looting a couple more good healing items, we make our way inside towards the castle, where we reach a stone wall beyond a door which blocks our way. Olivier concludes we've gotten to the end of the line… Joshua figures there's a hidden door here too, like before, and finds the switch to activate it. Zin concludes this is the place to stay on standby, then - we'll wait until noon here. When the time comes we'll go in! Olivier agrees that we should rest until then…
We switch over to the outside, where we see our allies set up - the quartet of bracers from the guild, and eight Royal Guardsmen led by their First Lieutenant Schwarz. They file in and set up behind a pair of landscape features in two groups, with Schwarz telling everyone to hold their positions - they'll make their charge when the noon bell rings…!
Further north we see the women of our party - Estelle, Kloe, and Schera - next to the metal airship the Special Ops have been using. Who'd have thought they'd actually end up piloting the Intelligence Division's airship, Estelle muses. Schera thinks the thing is creepy-looking, right? She's not sure which she likes less - this, or the sky bandits' ship! Kloe points out that they must admit that its specs are impressive! But how did they even get a ship like this…? Estelle is not sure, and says it's a mystery, just like how they managed to get a hold of the Gospel…
A boy's voice comes from inside the ship, greeting Her Highness, and apologizing for the wait. Then someone departs from the ship - and it's mechanic Payton! Kloe greets him and says it's been some time, hasn't it? Estelle wonders who he is (like a numpty) and Kloe explains he works on the maintenance team for the Arseille. Payton admits he's just a lowly technician sent from the central factory in Zeiss. They're still conducting test flights of the Arseille, so there's quite a lot of data that needs to be collected…
Estelle observes that the Arseille seemed to be flying just fine when we saw it back in Ruan. Payton acknowledges that regular flight is already stable, but the development of the new orbal engines is behind schedule, so they're just using an older, less powerful one for now. Since the Intelligence Division took her away, all test flights were halted indefinitely… He was wondering what to do with himself when Julia made contact with him in Grancel! Estelle gets it, and Schera says we appreciate whatever he can do. Payton promises we can count on him!
Anyway, he's removed the lock, so we should be able to fly this airship without problems. She's an extremely maneuverable girl once she gets up and running, so we should bear that in mind when we're flying… Kloe confirms she understands that, and Estelle thinks we should go ahead and get started! Payton pauses and recalls that, right, he brought along his tools to tune up everyone's orbments, just in case. He can also make a few tools and pieces of equipment, if necessary. Estelle and Schera say that's very thoughtful of him, and Kloe confirms that should be useful. Thanks very much! Payton says it's no big deal - if he can help out, just say the word!
We can quickly change around our equipment setup here and buy some last-minute gear, then all we need to do is head inside. It's already almost noon, so shall we start the launch? If we say yes, Kloe calls out to Payton - can he help us? Payton promises he'll handle the engine so Her Highness can just focus on flying. Estelle tells Schera it's finally time! Schera muses it'll be a difficult mission, but the fundamentals are as important as ever. Speed… and steadiness. Back in town we zoom in on the clocktower, the second ever built, as it strikes noon…
As the gong sounds we briefly see the cathedral with its own bells resounding, before switching over to the Liberl News building. Nial curses - damn, looks like it's started! He turns to Dorothy and tells her it's time to go. They've got to get a good spot to watch! Dorothy tells him to wait - she needs to set up her exposure quartz! The Editor-in-Chief wonders what's going on?! Nial hasn't shown up in three days, and now…? Nial just argues it's a big story! Biggest in the history of the Liberl News!
Meanwhile, back in the castle, we see Joshua and his party enter through a secret door - they end up in the basement among all the random stuff stored there. Joshua muses that the castle gate controls are in the Royal Guard office, so we should go up the southern stairs! Let's get going! We're free to wander, but only one route is actually open to us - up the stairs, and straight into a room with a whole bunch of Spec Ops soldiers who are rather confused to see three heavily armed people rush inside. Wha, intruders?! Olivier confirms that, yes, he guesses they could call us that. Zin understands the sentiment too… Let's go!
This fight has a bunch of these Spec Ops guys and a couple of dogs, but they've so nicely bunched up together, and I have my more powerful moves ready. It barely takes two turns to completely decimate the poor fools… Zin figures that took care of them! 'Nighty-night, kitty-cats!' Olivier says cheerfully to the unconscious pile of guards. Joshua walks over to a large device to the side of the room - let's see what he can do about this gate control… He warns the others to keep an eye out for any reinforcements, and Zin agrees he should leave it to them! Nobody's getting through here, or his name isn't 'Zin the Immovable!'
Joshua manages to activate the gate controls, and Olivier remarks that now's the time that Heaven's Gate opens… Thus begins the final movement!
Outside, the two guards at the entrance are flabbergasted when the gate opens behind them. Uhh, aren't they on total lockdown right now? Why is it opening?! Impossible! Just then they hear a din from up ahead and turn to realize a small army is bearing down on them - no way! The senior bracers and the Royal Guard rush towards the gates together...
Up on the garden terrace we see that Captain Amalthea and a small army of soldiers are watching on. Amalthea tells the others that this has better be a bad joke! Why is the gate open…?! One of the soldiers asks for orders - enemies could breach the castle at any moment! Amalthea turns and tells all remaining members of the first platoon to head to the foyer! On the double! Allow nobody to enter! All but two of the soldiers nervously agree and then rush off. Amalthea scoffs - what a disgrace! If the enemy is not routed before she has to report to His Excellency…
One of her two remaining soldiers warns Amalthea about a new development - Special Ops Frigate inbound! Amalthea turns and curses - damn it! So that was our ploy?! Sure enough our airship comes rushing in and lands in the rooftop gardens, right in front of the Captain and her guards. As our party rushes out, Amalthea curses Estelle Bright on sight… and then hesitates. Is that… Princess Klaudia?! Estelle tells Amalthea to stand aside, while Kloe announces she's here to demand the release of her grandmother! Amalthea tells Kloe to watch her tongue, then rushes in… and it's boss time.
[Boss: Captain Amalthea, Spec Ops Soldier*2]
Despite the buildup to this, Captain Amalthea is kind of easy to defeat. Yeah, sure, she's immune to a few things and can mass-poison and do other nasty stuff like steal your EP, but… she's not immune to Chaos Brand. Nor are her allies. I open up by confusing everyone, and the enemies just spend the entire battle beating each other up while I lob AOEs from afar. The difficulty is a bit of a letdown on this fight… (Foreshadowing?)
After beating Amalthea unconscious, Scherazard scoffs and calls her one nasty woman! Who was she, anyway…? Estelle points out she's actually Colonel Richard's second-in-command. Your stereotypical femme fatale. Schera confirms that explains it. Anyway, on to the Royal Keep! Let's hurry! The trip there is complicated by a whole bunch more regular Spec Ops troops getting in our way in a series of mandatory fights. Persistent little buggers, aren't they? While these guys aren't the toughest, healing up between fights is still a good idea. Thankfully they don't come all at once, or we'd be goners! Rushing up the stairs towards the royal keep, the guards we saw there before warn us not to get closer - we shall not pass! Kloe says we must - and we will! Estelle just asks them to try and stop us!
After beating up some more guards (alongside several more attack dobermans and some souped-up horned variants) we finally get inside, and run into yet more guards - of course - and a familiar face. Duke Dunan is waiting for us behind a trio of Special Ops soldiers, and yells that we're traitors! We dare to come here?! Do we not realize that he is the new king?! Estelle tells him to brush his goofy hairdo already, sheesh. He ain't king YET! Dunan incredulously wonders what this is about, and Schera helpfully explains that we are with the Bracer Guild, and at the request of Her Highness Princess Klaudia, we are here to free the queen! It would be best for everyone involved if he were to quietly step aside…!
Dunan hears that name - Klaudia - and curses it. Damn that brat! Damn her to hell! Kloe steps forward and speaks up. Uncle Dunan… please, stop this. Colonel Richard is just using him! Dunan, confused, wonders who she is…? … Kuh, kuh, KLAUDIA?! What happened to her hair? And her clothes?! Estelle rather hypocritically proclaims that we have comprehension. She repeats, they have comprehension! Though he still hasn't noticed that we first met him in Ruan… Schera has no idea what she's talking about, but Dunan doesn't seem the most observant sort. Kloe figures she should have told him sooner, perhaps…
Duke Dunan demands to know how Kloe dares to make a fool of him?! It's because of things like this that those creatures known as 'women' are not to be trusted! Sly, narrow-minded, nit-picking, nagging wretches… How could he ever give up the crown to such a vile creature?! Our party, dumbstruck by the sheer level of misogyny, stares at Dunan as he hesitates. Even the soldiers guarding him comments to His Grace that they don't think that was the right thing to say… Maybe he should apologize…?
'Vile creatures,' huh? Schera concludes that she does believe Duke Dunan just went from stupid to suicidal. After all, that's a mighty courageous sentiment to vocalize when in the presence of three armed women. Kloe apologizes to her uncle, but in this she cannot defend him…
[Boss: Duke Dunan von Auslese, Special Ops Soldier*2, Heavily Armed Soldier]
In keeping with his rather pathetic character, Duke Dunan might be in this battle, but he spends the entire time wandering around in a panic like some of those NPCs you might escort earlier on. The real threat here are the soldiers, of course. The trick is that in order to win some bonus BP on this, you have to leave the non-combatant out of things - Dunan is an asshole, but he's a harmless one, so hurting him is assault. He has to stay safe. In practice, this means I can't just Chaos Brand all these guys and have them beat themselves up, since they are quite likely to target Dunan instead, and that still counts as us doing it.
Technically Dunan does get involved via buffing and healing once things get properly going, but the logic stays the same. Anyway, in this fight I debuff the heavily armed soldier as much as possible to make him less of a threat, since he's a lot tougher than the regular joes. AOEs still work pretty well since Dunan mostly stays out of the firing line anyway, as compared to the more melee oriented soldiers. Since we're just dealing with regular enemies we've beaten a bunch before, the biggest issue is probably that we haven't used Kloe or Schera much in a while, so their techniques might be a little less familiar at this point. Eh.
After the fight is over (without knocking out the Duke) Estelle says that settles that. Now then, shall she show Dunan just how 'vile' a woman can be? She brandishes her staff at him, just as Schera muses that maybe she should give him a taste of a ladylike whipping?
Dunan wheezes in fear and tells us to stay back - please, stay awaaaay! Kloe says that she might be able to call us off… Dunan declares that if she does, he swears he'll be Her Majesty's very own human shield! AAAIEEEE, MOMMY! He works himself into such a panic that he faints and possibly vomits right where he stands. As Dunan sinks to the floor, Estelle muses that maybe we overdid it with the threats? Schera figures a little dose of the cold, hard truth might be the best medicine he ever gets… Kloe says this is an unfortunate situation he's gotten himself into. Still, she cannot allow her unconscious uncle to simply be left like this…
'Your Grace?' a voice suddenly says from off-screen - it's Phillip, the Duke's attendant. He's rather baffled to see Estelle there, and is that Her Highness?! Phillip tells us that he can offer no words to make up for his master's behaviour in this instance. As the man who raised him, the responsibility is his to bear! Please, he asks Kloe to punish him in Dunan's stead! As he bows his head low, Estelle tells him to hold on a second! Kloe tells Phillip to lift his eyes, and explains that we're here to help her grandmother, to save the queen. We have no intention of doing anything to the duke. She'd appreciate it if he would take him to her room.
Schera explains he's not actually hurt, but merely passed out from the shock. Phillip thanks Kloe for this, and all of us as well… He will not forget the boon he has been granted! If we visit the two in the bedroom, Phillip thanks Kloe and everyone else for showing mercy. His Grace will surely remember this kindness once he awakens!
With all the distractions taken care of, it's time to head upstairs to save the queen! And maybe meet our maker...
Next: We challenge a monster, make callbacks to ancillary background dialogue from three whole regions ago, and get the band back together for the deep endgame…
Amalthea tries. She doesn't succeed, but she does try. The more I think back on this game the more I realize that Lorence is carrying this entire conspiracy...
Really though, I love the whole rest of the game from this point. Largely because of that Cloak Quartz in that last dungeon, admittedly. Can't imagine actually fighting random encounters as intended there.
EDIT: If you're reading this through, at the top of the next page is a boss encounter with one of the greatest boss BGMs of all time. You should play this in a separate tab as you read it.
) they don't wink out of existence after their arc ends means that they are still just out there in the world, and they can react to plot stuff and like, everyone has to take that into account. Cassius hit level 99 and is just trying to live his life, and whole-ass governments have files on him like he's a WMD and more settings need to do that.
