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Total Members Voted: 10

[Neonivek]

Yuri does indeed have an impressive bodycount for a JRPG protagonist, but have you looked at the planetary populations lately? Planets having tens of billions of people is far from uncommon, thus averting the cliche of having ten bandits for every villager while simultaneously making Yuri's bloodbath seem like a drop in an ocean.

On that subject I have only ONCE seen a "Bandit" or "Pirate" village that was a legitimate village... and not just a place where pirates and bandits are serviced or chose to live (Or rather... a Village that subsists or is aided by banditry that is actually a village)

I somehow suspect Infinite Space will keep up with that trend and no Pirate Base will have something as silly as... I don't know... Laundry service, farmers, or just civilians unless they are prisoners or somehow also sword wielding pirates no matter HOW big it gets.

Heck we already saw that jail that was taken over by pirates... and it was completely wasted on them. They might as well have taken control of an exceptionally fortified giant parking lot.

Mind you this isn't a complaint. I just one of those things I find funny enough to point attention to.

[Culise]

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

In addition, who we make friends with decides the fate of Katida Lanco. If we go with Nova Nacio, she'll have an okay life. If we go with Kalymnos, she has a terrible life and we deal with the consequences.

Spoiler: On Recruitment Flags and Act Two Spoilers (click to show/hide)

As Sirus says, it only sets one flag.  There are three that need to be set to accomplish her recruitment, all of which are in this chapter.  I actually think the story events that result from not recruiting her are a bit more powerful than the ones that result if you do, but on the other hand, either way, she kinda gets hammered by the story; there's nothing wrong with giving her a happy ending.

[Sirus]

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

In addition, who we make friends with decides the fate of Katida Lanco. If we go with Nova Nacio, she'll have an okay life. If we go with Kalymnos, she has a terrible life and we deal with the consequences.

Spoiler: On Recruitment Flags and Act Two Spoilers (click to show/hide)

As Sirus says, it only sets one flag.  There are three that need to be set to accomplish her recruitment, all of which are in this chapter.  I actually think the story events that result from not recruiting her are a bit more powerful than the ones that result if you do, but on the other hand, either way, she kinda gets hammered by the story; there's nothing wrong with giving her a happy ending.

Spoiler: Continued (click to show/hide)

And even after you set all the flags correctly, IIRC you still have to find and recruit her in the second half of he game. Otherwise things still end badly.

[Hanzoku]

Spoiler: More on Katida (click to show/hide)

From everything I read on the whole Katida scenario, she's a real pain in the ass to get. Two of the flags in this chapter are... well, backwards in what you would expect. The whole allying with Kalymnos/Nova Nacio thing at least makes sense.

My plan is to set the first two flags correctly either way and find out for Science! if the third flag is needed. I saw a lot of 'yes it is/no it isn't' without a lot of certainty. I did get her on my first run, so I do know how to do it properly at least.

Oh,and on request, I spoilered the bit about her in the last update.

[birdy51]

Must resist urge to spoil myself.

[C-SH4M4N]

Denying existence does not work that way. But Rule of Cool is always cool, so ... meh!
SPOILERS ABOUND!

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

It makes more sense, story-wise, to side with Kalymnos. But Nova Nacio has good people to join your crew, fighters and more modules - they're the best tech in the SMC. Either way, it won't make much a difference soon ... or WILL IT?
Not getting all the flags for Katida will be ... interesting in the endgame. I say go for it, FOR SCIENCE! (AND LULZ!)
Flux sectors will get way more important soon enough.

[Hanzoku]

Unprepared for the Journey Ahead
New Characters: Pipra
New Ships: Fellowship MS (BB), Junkyard MS (CG), Sodality MS (CG), Zara C (CG)
New Equipment:
New Fighters:

Spoiler: Psychology and Stowaways (click to show/hide)

Last time, we ended up disappearing from the Flux Sector in a burst of light and appearing here, in the far reaches of the Irvest Sector. Yuri (and us) are confused still as to how we got here, but for the moment, there's not a lot to do but to start exploring.



As you can see, we don't really know this sector yet, and the only place we can reach is the planet creatively named 'NN-005'. (Presumably the fifth planet that Nova Nacio has mapped and claimed in this sector.)

We head to the right-hand empty sector and come across something.

Kira: Yuri, there's a large fleet ahead!

Yuri: A fleet?

Kalymnos Soldier: Warning, civilian ship! This is the Kalymnos Cluster Probe Expedition. This area was discovered by the nation of Kalymnos. We retain all rights to its exploration. We are prepared to use military force, if need be, against any intruder. You must turn back immediately.

We repeat -- Turn back immediately.

Yuri: ...

Nia: Oh, boy. Looks like we got here just at the wrong time. Kalymnos and Nova Nacio are right in the middle of it. Whaddya wanna do, Yuri?

Yuri: I guess it doesn't make sense to try arguing with a whole army right now. We should probably turn back.

We do so and take the long way around to NN-005.

When we reach the planet, we get a chance to relax for the first time in a while.

>>NN-005
Kira: Yuri, I made dinner. Pantilla and abon stew. They're your favorites, right?

Yuri: Yeah, thanks.

Kira: Do you mind if I sit next to you?

Yuri: Sure, go ahead. ...

Kira: What's the matter?

Yuri: Hm?

Kira: You look so serious.

Yuri: Oh. Well... Kira, do you remember what happened in that phenomena fluctuation sector?

Kira: Yes. I was so scared! I thought you and everybody else was going to disappear. I didn't know what to do!

Yuri: So you remember it, too, do you?

Kira: Huh? Of course I do! Why do you ask?

Yuri: I went around and asked everybody, asked them about that Flux sector. But they all said they didn't remember it! They did say they remembered up to the part about the Epitaph being activated... but they all said that after that, we just warped from the Spetses Sector to this one. I checked the navigation records and charts, too, but there's nothing in them anywhere about that Flux sector.

I just don't understand any of it. And how the Grus did we manage to get out of the Flux, anyway? Or did it ever even really exist to begin with? Argh! I feel like it was just all in my head, like I'm going crazy or something! It's freaking me out!

Kira: Oh, Yuri...

Yuri: ...

Kira: If you remember it happening, then, to you, it really did happen. People can only see what they themselves believe to exist.
Interesting psychological viewpoint, that.

Yuri: Kira... Thanks.

Kira: Oh, Yuri, your hand is so cold...

After dinner, we shuttle down to the planet, which already has a tavern in place. (Probably the first building built after the orbital elevator is completed.)

Inside the tavern, Cico is already waiting.

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: This planet was discovered by the Nova Nacion military. People just recently started settling in here. Once enough people are living here, they're planning to change the name of the planet to something more official-sounding.

>>Talk to Cico.
Cico: yo! We never really got the chance to talk before, did we? Here's to squashin' that miserable old far, Cadmus! Congrats!

Yuri: Thanks. And I really appreciate what you did too. Leading Valantin in was a pretty risky thing to do.

Cico: No probs! Hey, ya know? It's kinda nice, this. I always worked on my own until now. Whaddya say, man? You wanna travel together for a while? I'm thinkin' about headin' over to the Large Magellanic Cloud next.
Ooo, can we go warship shopping there?

Yuri: The LMC?

Cico: Yeah. I heard you can get to the Magellanic Stream through the void gate near here. It oughta be pretty fun. You wanna try ridin' the stream in together?

Nia: The Magellanic Stream, eh? The one and only starlane to the Large Magellanic Cloud... I don't think you're ready for that just yet, kiddo.

Yuri: Huh? What do you mean by that?

Nia: Just exactly what I said. There aren't many spaceports along that route, and it's just one dangerous sector after another. A starlane like that is just a little more than I think you can handle right now.

Yuri: Oh, I don't know about that! I think I've built up a lot of experience lately!

Nia: What are ya doin', fishing for compliments! I think I know what I'm talkin' about, kid!

Yuri: ...

Onboard the ship...

Tatiana: Whew! I really got behind with my laundry!

Nobelo: Oh, hello. Let's see, your name was...

Tatiana: Tatiana Agarkov. You didn't disembark, either, Miss Nobelo?

Nobelo: No, I thought I'd help check over the inventory first. I've been noticing a lot of waste going on around here and I've been thinking... I could set up a more efficient management system that would help conserve resources.

Tatiana: That would be a big help. Thank you.

Nobelo: I'm happy to do it.

The two move to another area of the ship.

Nobelo: There's plenty of water, but there seems to be a lot of wasteful use of provisions going on. Huh? Is somebody there?

Well, stowaways do tend to use extra supplies.

Nobelo: What?! Miss Lanco?! What is she doing here?

Katida: (labored breathing)

Nobelo: What in the galaxy--?

With that, we're back to the planet. Cico has already left, so we just have our friends to talk to.

>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Ian: To tell you the truth, I don't really like being here in this sector. Not with all that's going on.

Yuri: All that's going on?

Ian: Yes, here in the Irvest Sector. Don't you remember what Mr. Garni told us on the planet Populara? The Irvest Sector has been the number one cause of the increased tension between Kalymnos and Nova Nacio. The question of who can gain control of this area will decide the futures of both nations. The last thing we want to do is get involved in their feud here. It would be a whole lot worse than dealing with a few pirates, that's for sure!
Nothing like that was said at the time. What's going on?

Conversation #2
Larissa: Yuri! Are you all right?

Yuri: Huh?

Larissa: You've been looking pale every since we left the Spetses Sector. Kira, too, for that matter. Are you two still having those headaches?

Kira: No. I'm fine.

Yuri: Me, too. There's nothing to worry about here.

Larissa: Are you sure about that? Look, if you're feeling funny, don't try to be a hero about it. Come see me! Have you got that?

Kira: We will.

Yuri: got it. We'll come straight to you if we have any problems.

Conversation #3
Kira: Yuri, can I set with you for a little bit?

Yuri: Sure, Kira. Is something the matter? Are you still feeling uneasy?

Kira: Yeah.

Yuri: Well, don't worry. I'll be here for you.

Kira: Thanks, Yuri.

Conversation #4
Nadja Musin sips from a mug as she works from a mobile terminal.

Musin: Phenomena fluctuation sectors? You keep asking me, but I tell you, I don't know much about them except what I've read in encyclopedias. Nobody has ever really properly observed and reported on them scientifically, after all. Why all the interest in phenomena fluctuation sectors, anyway?

Yuri: Oh, uh, no special reason.
You all disintegrated in one.

Musin: Don't tell me you're planning on entering one!
Well, not on purpose, after the last time.

Yuri: No, don't worry.

Musin: Phew. That's a relief. I love science, but not even I would want to observe a place like that firsthand.
It's psychedelic, that's for sure.

>>Desert
Receptionist: Welcome to the biosphere. Within this dome, we provide an artificial environment for many life forms. Here, we create and study such things as planets, animals and carbon dioxide for the purpose of future terraforming. Admittance is 1,000 G. Would you like to enter?

>>Yes please.
Receptionist: Enjoy your glimpse into the future, the new frontier, NN-005!

Kira: Wow, look at all the plants! It's a little humid in here, though.

Minas: yes, that's because the microorganisms here release a large quantity of methane gas and carbon dioxide. A miniature jungle, all contained in a dome!

>>Visit the growth chamber.
Minas: A growth chamber is a room where plants and microorganisms are grown. Did you know that microorganisms produce methane gas and carbon dioxide? Those are the gases that can cause a greenhouse effect. And so this is how air is created on an airless planet, through the use of microorganisms.

Torlo: But how can people stay alive in an atmosphere that's all pumped up full of methane gas and carbon dioxide?

Minas: Ah! That's where plant photosynthesis comes in. When provided with enough sunlight, plants take in carbon dioxide and produce oxygen that people can breathe.

Torlo: Oh, I get it! Cool!

>>Visit the atmosphere control room.
Minas: In this room, the composition of the methane gas, carbon dioxide and oxygen created in the growth chamber is observed and analyzed. It is then adjusted to create an atmosphere within the biosphere suitable for sustaining human life.

Yuri: So that means the number of plants are reduced or increased, depending on the results of what they observe here, right?

Minas: that is it precisely.

>>Visit the water quality control room.
Minas: One of the requisites in terraforming is creating an environment in which plants can survive. The planet must orbit inside an optimal zone that allows just the right amount of light to reach it from its star. This zone is called that planetary system's "circumstellar habitable zone." If a planet is far removed from this circumstellar habitable zone, terraforming it can prove to be quite difficult.

Yuri: Huh. Interesting.

As we leave the facility...

Minas: Did that help you understand the technology behind creating a planetary environment capable of supporting human life?

Yuri: Yeah it did, thanks. I really learned a lot.

Minas: Good. Well, I suppose we should be going, then.

Yuri's Science skill increased by 1!

As we depart the planet...

Tatiana: Oh, Yuri! You're back!

Yuri: Did something happen?

Tatiana: You're not going to believe it! We found Katida Lanco stowed away on our ship!

Yuri: What the Grus?!

The screen fades and returns while Tatiana explains the situation.

Yuri: ...

Tatiana: She must've run after you and got on board before we left the Spetses port.

Yuri: Her going missing like that almost brought two nations to war already! Doesn't she have any idea how much trouble this is going to cause?!

Ian: And Mr. Lanco might be thinking that the mission to rescue her failed, for all we know.

Nobelo: You don't have to worry about that. I just sent an IP communication to Mr. Lanco to let him know she's been rescued.

Yuri: You did? Thank you, Adorinda. And where is Katida now?

Nobelo: She's resting in one of the rooms. But the thing is...

Yuri: What's the matter?

Nobelo: Miss Lanco suffers from a congenital disease called phermedosine hormone deficiency.
Don't bother looking that one up, it's not real.

Nobelo: That's what caused her to collapse, I believe.

Kira: Phermedosine hormone deficiency?

Minas: Yes, phermedosine is a hormone that helps the body resist low-gravity sickness and cosmic rays. It is this hormone that allows humankind to spend extended periods of time in space without having any adverse effects. Humans are a special species in that way.
And that's why.

Yuri: I see. And what's the cure for this disease, Miss Nobelo?

Nobelo: Oh, there is no cure, I'm afraid. But the disease can be managed by giving her periodic phermetas injections to raise her resistance. I don't know where we're going to get that around here, though.

Yuri: Damn it. What are we going to do?

Cico must have been listening in over the comm.

Cico: Nothing to get all worked up about, Yuri. Just go to the trade planet Kashtano and buy some!

Torlo: Kashtano? Where's that? It better not be too far.

Cico: Nah, it ain't that far. It's in a Nova Nacio-owned sector, a relay point in the Magellanic Stream. You just go through the gate, and then it's not far at all.

Yuri: But the Magellanic Stream...?

Cico: I'll go with ya. I'll be part of your fleet. We shouldn't run into any problems.

Yuri: You'll do that?

Cico: Sure. But you gotta promise to think about what I said before, about going to the LMC with me. I don't know why, but I kinda like you. It'd be fun! Whaddya say?

Yuri: ... Okay, fine. If you're willing to join my fleet, then let's do it.

The Rudianos joined your fleet!

 

The Rudianos is a beast, and an example of how backwards the LMC technology is. It's classified as an 'Other', but falls in-between the Sharanga and Bugbear in size, so I'll call it a battlecruiser. (It's entry in the ship database lists it as a Cruiser.)

All of its values are 150-300% higher than the Bugbear's.

Ship	Anti-Air	Anti-Ship	Cruise Speed	Battle Speed	Mobility	Armor	Durability	Attack Range	Livability
Bugbear	7	52	96	118	24	48	1480	17400	62
Rudianos	51	139	153	190	43	64	2590	18000	52

We replace the Menthu and let the Rudianos take the lead position, where its superior... well, everything can help us stay alive.

With Cico now with us, a nearby Void Gate is revealed.

Next stop: The Magellanic Stream.

Spoiler: Dipping a Toe Into the Stream (click to show/hide)

Well, that's more like it.

The reason Cico is in our party is simple - the pirates in this sector have made sure to visit the LMC and came back with some goodies. Our ships simply have no chance against them, while Cico's LMC-made ship does.

In fact, our shots hit for 1-5 damage (yes, even the large laser) against the enemy ship's armor. Cico at least hits for a couple hundred a pop.

As we start towards the nearest enemy sector, we're intercepted.

Kira: Yuri, there's a ship approaching, twelve o'clock. It's coming at us really fast!

Torlo: What a weird-looking ship.

Cico opens a channel.

Cico: it's probably a jackal from the Large Magellanic Cloud. Jackals are pirates that target ships on the Magellanic Stream exclusively.

Yuri: An LMC-made ship, huh?

Kira: The enemy is getting ready to fire. Prepare for attack!

We're thrown against the first battleship class enemy we've faced since the tutorial. It's a bit anti-climatic though, as Cico chops it apart on a normal attack.

After the battle, Torlo is exultant.

Torlo: All right! We got rid of it!

Yuri: ... Kira, could you put the data from that battle up on my screen?

Kira: Huh? Okay, sure.

Torlo: Huh? What's up, Yuri?

Yuri: ...
Yuri doesn't reply as he starts studying the data.

We continue on to the next empty area.

Tatiana: Wow.

Nia: The red supergiant, Vasta... They say it's hundreds of millions of miles across.

Torlo: Look how big it looks, even from this far away!

Tatiana: Just looking at it makes me feel warm.

Ian: Hey, wait a minute... I think it really is getting hot in here! What's the current temperature of the ship?

Yuri: Kira?

Kira: Current temperature, 95 degrees... and climbing!

An alarm sounds.

Ian: Huh?!

Nia: Yuri, we're in trouble! Our outer armor is starting to melt in the radiant heat from Vasta!

Yuri: What?! But what about our shields?!

Kira: They're at full power, but I guess this heat is just too much for them!

Yuri: Grus! Welcome to the Magellanic Stream, huh?

Kira: Yuri, do you want to turn back?

Yuri: I'm afraid we can't. We have to go through here if we want to get to Kashtano.

As we move along, all of our ships are losing HPs as the intense heat of Vasta starts melting them like candles.

Luckily, our repair crews are top-notch, keeping the hulls topped off, even from battle damage.

Finally, we escape the radius of Vasta.

Nia: Phew! Looks like we managed to get away from Vasta's heat somehow.

Torlo: Man, I am so drenched with sweat it's not even funny!

Nia: Kira, get the shields and interior temperature back to normal, would you?

Kira: All right.

Tatiana: here you go, everybody. I brought you some cold drinks.

Torlo: That's great. Thanks, Tats!

Tatiana: Huh? Where's Yuri?

Nia: He went to see how Katida was doin'. After all those extra cosmic rays hit her, she could be doing a whole lot worse.

Tatiana: Right.

Katida: Unh... (labored breathing)

Yuri: She really seems to be suffering.

Nobelo: yes, being deficient in the phermedosine hormone is like being a throwback to our ancestors, before the days of space travel. It's a very rare condition. The universe is so unfair, don't you think? What did poor Miss Lanco ever do to deserve this?

Yuri: ...

Finally, after a couple more pirate encounters, we reach the planet of Kashtano.

>>Kashtano
Tatiana: (choking) Wow, all this dust!

Kira: And so many people!

Ian: Some of these people are dressed in quite peculiar outfits. I've never seen styles like these before.

Cico: Well, it's the only trade point between the SMC and the LMC, so you're gonna get all kinds of people comin' through here.

Nia: And I just heard from a guy walkin' by that they're holdin' huge bazaars all over the sector right now. That means there are even more people here than normal.

Yuri: Huh.

Nobelo: Captain, we need to get that phermetas quickly. Miss Lanco is really suffering.

Yuri: Yeah, I agree. Let's look for someplace that might carry it.

Down on the planet there's a Tavern and a Trader's Guild.

>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: I hear they're holding a very important trade convention on Zefiro right now. What will all the VIPs in attendance, this entire sector is even more lively than usual.

>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Torlo: That Katida sure is a wild one! She just hopped on our ship and never even thought about what kind of trouble she was gonna stir up!

Yuri: true, but I seem to recall you jumping on to the ship in just about the same way, once upon a time.

Torlo: What? What are you talkin' about, my man? At least I can pull my own weight, not like that little girl. I mean, she doesn't know how to do anything!
She's sort of sick, Torlo. It stands to reason.

Yuri: Ha ha ha! I know you pull your own weight, Torlo. I appreciate everything you do.

Torlo: Well, good, then. As long as ya get it. That's the important thing.

>>Trader's Guild
Receptionist: Welcome, spacefarers! Welcome to the Kashtano Bazaar. Would you like to pay your respects to Pipra, the leader of the trader's guild? If you do, she'll make it well worth your while for when you visit the bazaars.

You're given an option, but why wouldn't you?

Yuri: Yes, please.

Receptionist: Very good. Now, I'm afraid there are too many of you to all go in at once. Please choose two delegates and follow me.

Following the receptionist's instructions, the party chooses Yuri and Cico to go in on their behalf. When the two are shown into the room, they see a small, elderly woman huddled back in the shadows.

Pipra: Welcome, travelers of the sea of stars! Quite handsome ones too, I might add. If you have what it takes, the sea of stars can be your paradise. If you don't, it can be pure Grus. My name is Pipra, and I run all of Kashtano.

>>Pay your respects to Pipra.

Pipra: You say you want to pay your respects... In that case, why don't you give me a little something to grease my palm?

Yuri: Grease...?

Pipra: You know, a little something-something to show your appreciation, if you will. Or you can always trade your bodies...
Take my money. Take my money!

Yuri: Pardon?
This takes clueless to a whole new level...

Cico: Ha ha ha! That's a Nova Nacion at her worst for ya! In other words, she wants you to give her some G, Yuri. Or put out!

Yuri: Oh, uh... Oh!
The light dawns for Yuri, revealing the horrible nature of the truth.

We hand over 2,000 G. Quickly.

Pipra: Very nice, very nice! You can never have too much money or too many boyfriends, I always say! Isn't that right, handsome traveler?

Yuri: Um, yes?

Pipra: I like the way you put your money where your mouth is. And of course, you can put your mouth wherever you want... Here. I'll give you this pass.
I need brain bleach now.

Pipra: It'll get you into the Red Bazaar on Kranio.

You got a red pass!

Cico: This is all we get for 2,000 G?! We've been swindled!

Yuri: Cico, shh! She can hear you!

Pipra: Yes, yes. My ears are still as sharp as ever. As are other parts of me. Heh...
I'm hoping she means her elbows.

Yuri: I'm sorry for my friend, ma'am.

Pipra: No hard feelings. After all, you're both valued Kashtano customers now. And pretty easy on the eyes, too. Heh heh heh heh...

Yuri: ...

>>Talk to Pipra

Pipra: Oh! I almost forgot. I'd better give you cuties permission to access Zefiro, too.

Yuri: Zefiro?

Pipra: That's right. It's a satellite of Subpremi, a popular tourist spot, you know. It's well-known throughout the SMC, as well. You two are nice young men. You ought to consider taking a date there. It's a very fine place! And if you can't find a date, I think I've got a slot of time available, if you know what I mean. Heh heh heh...

Yuri: ...
The brain bleach, it does nothing!

Cico: Well, I'm not taking any greedy old broad, but I wouldn't mind going on a date, myself.

Yuri: Huh? Who would you ask, Cico?

Cico: Oh, well... I could take, you know... Kira.

Yuri: Kira?! What, did you already ask her?!

Cico: No, I haven't said a word to her yet. But I've been thinkin' about it...

Yuri: Phew. That was a surprise...

Cico: ...

Pipra: Are you two done flapping your gums yet?

Yuri: Oh, yeah. Sorry.

Pipra: Now, let me give you a word of warning, boys. You aren't to stir up any trouble or make any waves on Zefiro right now, do you hear me?

Yuri: Why, is there something going on there?

Pipra: Yes, a lot of LMC bigwigs are gathered there now during the bazaars for the trade talks. Trade with the LMC is the very lifeblood of the entire Kashtano Sector, you know. We can't let anybody, and I mean anybody, get in the way of this trade convention!

Yuri: I see.
He probably doesn't, but our success rate with government officials has been low.

As we go to leave, Pipra calls out.

Pipra: Oh, and one question. Do you people have any plans to travel to the Large Magellanic Cloud any time soon?

Yuri: We haven't decided yet, but we've been thinking about it.

Pipra: Well, take my advice, boys. Don't do it.

Yuri: Why not?

Pipra: Why not? Because you wouldn't be able to handle crossing the Magellanic Stream, that's why not. You'd just end up dying somewhere like two very handsome little dogs. Your friend... Cico, was it? He might fare a little better than you.

Cico: You think I could make it, huh?

Pipra: I'd say you've got a fifty-fifty chance. But this kid over here? Zero percent chance. Definitely wouldn't make it.

Yuri: ...
I think he's getting more and more angry with each person that says he's not good enough.

Cico: Ha! Listen to this old lady! C'mon, Yuri. Let's get out of here. Never mind what she says.

Yuri: Huh? Yeah, let's go.

We go back into the tavern, where Nia is available as a separate person to chat with.

>>Talk to Nia Lochlain.
Nia: Hey, you look pretty glum, chum. What happened at the trader's guild?
Well, I was sexually harassed by an old woman...

Yuri: Am I that easy to read?

Nia: You aren't that good at hiding your emotions, kid.

Yuri: ...

The screen fades and returns as Yuri explains.

Nia: Ha ha ha! She sure laid out straight for ya, eh?

Yuri: But Pipra's right. Cico's way ahead of me. in all the battles we've fought since we entered the Magellanic Stream, the only real damage to the enemy was caused by the Rudianos.

Nia: Ya noticed that, eh?

Yuri: Yeah. And it really... bothers me.

Nia: The universe is a big place. You're always gonna find somebody who's doin' better than you. From the top-ranked guys' point of view, you're nothing but a kid.

Yuri: Yeah, well, I don't mind being outranked by somebody like Valantin or Celina Sioufas. But Cico and I are just about the same age...

Nia: A-ha! Now I get it. So you're jealous, are ya?

Yuri: What? No, I... Well, yeah, maybe you're right.

Nia: Ha ha ha ha ha! That's what I like about you, Yuri. Your inability to lie!

Yuri: ...

Nia: Yeah, well, go ahead and be jealous, if that's what it takes to make you wanna step up your game. There's nothin' wrong with that! Besides, every spacefarer worth their weight goes through a period or two like that sometime in their lives.

Yuri: Thanks, Nia.

Nia: Now, on a completely different subject... Whaddya say we sneak into that trade convention that old lady was talkin' about?

Yuri: You want to do some kind of business there?

Nia: Hardly! It's a huge trade convention between the two galaxies, right? There'll be all kinds of VIPs from the LMC there. I'm gonna tell those VIPs that the Lugovalian Empire is on its way. That way, they can be ready to send reinforcements when we need 'em.

Yuri: Oh. But do you think they'll listen? They might react the same way the Elgavan government did, you know.

Nia: They might. I dunno. But we haven't made any headway so far. We gotta try anything and everything we can think of

Yuri: You're right. Okay, let's try to come up with a plan, then.

>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Rhea: Hm...

Yuri: What's the matter, Rhea?

Rhea: Well, I've been taking a look at our voyage recorder like you asked me to. I'm really puzzled b y the huge quantity of inflatons that was released when the dead gate was restored. And it looks like the speed of light in the Irvest Sector changed when our ship went through the warp gate.

Yuri: What do you think it means?

Rhea: Hm... It's almost like a Big Bang occurred, local to the Irvest Sector. But if that really happened, all traces of the matter in this sector would have disappeared. I suppose it could just be a bug in the voyage recorder, but it sure is strange!

Yuri: (Hm... I wonder if what she's seeing are the effects of the phenomena fluctuation sector.)

Conversation #2
Gadina: You're up to something, aren't ya, Nia?

Nia: Huh? What are you talking about?

Gadina: Don't play all innocent with me! I've worked security for some pretty important people in my day. I can tell when someone's gonna try and pull something. You've got something up your sleeve for that trade convention, don't ya?

Nia: Ooh, those are some powers of observation you've got there, Gadina. You frighten me.

Gadina: Hey, I'm the one that's scared! I don't wanna end up being some kind of wanted criminal all over the Magellanic after you sabotage that trade convention.

Nia: Eh, don't worry about it. I'm not that crazy!

Gadina: You'd better not be!

That's it for Kashtano.  We have several planets we can reach now, and a lot of shopping to do.

[Sirus]

Ah yes, Pipra. I forgot about her Dx

I do like the little technobabble segments in settings like this. I mean, apparently humans have been genetically engineered at some point to survive in space for long periods of time (judging by the hormone discussion regarding Katida), and (as can be reasonably expected) they have terraforming technology as well. Plausible terraforming tech, too.

[Hanzoku]

I'd have to find back the manual from the first post, but the game is set well, well into the future, so the terraforming technology and species-wide genetic engineering to adapt to space travel and stellar radiation isn't badly implausible.

Gravity control to accelerate lasers faster then the speed of light is still somewhat rage-making.

*edit*

Found it in the manual. humans with space adaptations were discovered in the 2200-2300s. A period of 10,000 years followed that where a cybernetic civilization rose and fell, and the current era is roughly 2,550 years old. So in short, it took about two to three hundred years for space adaptations to begin to appear, and 12,500 odd years for those adaptations to spread to 99.9% of the population. (Probably on the basis of those who didn't have the adaptations died when the Cybernetic civilization collapsed.)

Other fun fact: The CTA was founded in the 1500s (new era), so it's roughly 1,000 years old.

[Sirus]

I know the game is set well into the future. I just enjoy reading about these little hints of just how far humanity has come in all those thousands of years.

And I still say that anti-gravity lenses accelerating lasers is one of the least handwavey things I've read in sci-fi, so it doesn't bother me

[Itnetlolor]

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Pipra: You say you want to pay your respects... In that case, why don't you give me a little something to grease my palm?

Yuri: Grease...?

Pipra: You know, a little something-something to show your appreciation, if you will. Or you can always trade your bodies...
Take my money. Take my money!

Yuri: Pardon?
This takes clueless to a whole new level...

Cico: Ha ha ha! That's a Nova Nacion at her worst for ya! In other words, she wants you to give her some G, Yuri. Or put out!

Yuri: Oh, uh... Oh!
The light dawns for Yuri, revealing the horrible nature of the truth.

When I played up to here, and (re-)read this, the scene in my head had a different attitude, and it changed the context from Yuri being clueless to being annoyed and somewhat sarcastic (kinda how I would react; as if I suddenly got the idea just a second before being explained everything I needed to know, that I already figured out, and the 'pardon?' reaction ends up sounding closer to being like a flat 'what.', and the 'oh' is in a more disgusted tone). With that in mind, it also made it seem like Cico's trying to bond with Yuri to get closer to Kira by acting all tour guide-ish, like the 'new best friend' character that helps the new kid around town in the first episode or act of a show/movie.

[Markus]

Posting to Watch, I remember playing this at least twice, not counting EX mode, which was an additional 2 play-throughs.

[C-SH4M4N]

Here's one of those inconsistency things ... Yuri asks for shields when they pass through Vasta, but when was it ever mentioned their ships HAD shields? Most ships don't even pack a basic deflector array (which we found out when we had to pass through that Meteor Belt/Shower/Storm back in Argun's base).

And ... how cliché! The tradepost between two GALAXIES happens to be themed after a medieval arabian kingdom. They even got sand planets and all! What's this, Tattooine?

[Hanzoku]

Bad Romance
New Characters:  Lotuso, Sceptro, Oisin
New Ships: Admiraldo (DD), Chloris (CG), Kamarado (CG), Daphne (CV), Kolonio (CV)
New Equipment: Nova Nacio Bridge Lv 1, Second Bridge Lv 2, Navigation Bridge Lv 3, Radar Room Lv 4, Lookout Lv 1, Engine Room Lv 4, Hanger Lv 2, Maintenance Room Lv 2, Maintenance Room Lv 4, Captain's Cabin Lv 1, Briefing Room Lv 2, Briefing Room Lv 3, Training Room Lv 1, Shop Lv 2, Nature Dome Lv 1, Gym Lv 2, Thruster Control Room Lv 2, Amplifier Lv 2
New Fighters:  Dividi (MR), Zarnica (ST)

Spoiler: Redesigning the Fleet (click to show/hide)

We head to Kranio first to begin our shopping round.

>>Kranio
Kranio is the one planet in the c luster with a shipyard and remodeling option. We'll get to that shortly, however.

Planetside, the Tavern and the Red Bazaar are available to us - maybe that pass from Pipra will prove handy after all.

We hit the Tavern first before we get to shopping.

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: There are all kinds of bazaars on this planet. I hear that at a few of them, you have to be a special customer to buy what they're selling. Not that an average guy like me would ever know something like that for sure... I guess that's what rumors are good for.

>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Torlo: What's the matter, Yuri? You look like you're in a nasty mood.

Yuri: Huh? I do? I don't feel that way.

Torlo: oh, okay. I just thought it looked like maybe something's been buggin' ya lately. If ya ever wanna talk, y'know, about our feelings 'n' stuff, I'll be right here! You can come to me anytime, day or night!
So easy to take out of context.

Yuri: Uh, okay. Thanks, Torlo.

Conversation #2
Tatiana: hey, Nia. I have a question for you. I want to buy some beauty products while we're in Kashtano. My skin is so dry! Do you have any recommendations?

Nia: Well, whenever I'm in the Magellanic Stream, I never miss out on the chance to get the full Cosmo Cosmetics line put out by Zefina. I just happen to have a brochure right here...
It's like we ended up in a commercial...

Tatiana: Wow, look at everything you can get!

Nia: Their products go on really smooth, too.

As the two women talk, Yuri, Torlo Adkin and Ian Fenevich watch from a distance with blank expressions on their faces.

Yuri: ...

Torlo: Kinda hard to jump into the conversation.

Ian: I know what you mean. But there are a lot of women on our crew. You just have to get used to the idea that those kinds of products are basic necessities to some people.

Yuri: Basic necessities, huh?

Ian: On long cruises like this, every crew member needs a few pick-me-ups here and there.

Yuri: I guess you're right.

Yuri's Ship Management skill increased by 1!
Surprisingly wise of Ian.

>>Red Bazaar
When Yuri offers up the pass he received from Pipra, the party is led to the streets where the bazaar is being held.

Merchant: Welcome to the Red Bazaar! Are you looking for anything in particular?

The Red Bazaar is the military-oriented one.

>>Shop for Ship blueprints
Merchant: Well, now! With Fame like yours, you're eligible to buy anything you'd like from this shop!
I think they say that to everyone, but it is gratifying to hear.

We pick up two cruisers, the Chloris and Kamarado classes, two carriers, the Daphne and Kolonio classes, and one destroyer, the Admiralo class.

>>Shop for modules.
We pick up the Nova Nacio Bridge Lv 1, Navigation Bridge Lv 3, Radar Room Lv 4, Maintenance Room Lv 2, Briefing Room Lv 2, Training Room Lv 1, Shop Lv 2 and Nature Dome Lv 1.

>>Shop for fighter blueprints.
We pick up the Dividi and Zarnica designs.

We're done shopping, and now it's time to redesign our fleet. As I said a while back, once we got access to a carrier design, the fleet would be altered to one battleship, one carrier and one cruiser or destroyer, until we can bring a fourth design.

Let's compare designs:

Destroyers
The Skoryy-class remains the reigning champion, beating the Admiralo-class in all aspects, from weapons capability to module space to basic stats.

Cruisers
the Chloris-class is surprisingly competitive for being less expensive then the Eudora class, which is normally a good indicator of quality. It's higher in many stats and has similar open space, but it's brought down by its lower durability, which is a liability as the cruiser is going to become the frontline ship for the formation.

The Kamarado-class is odd - it's not nearly as good as the Eudora class, but it's slightly more expensive. it has less module space, a weaker weapons array, and overall its stats are not as good, including in durability.

Carrier
We get to compare the two carrier classes against each other.

The Daphne is a carrier trying (and largely succeeding) to be a battleship. It has 48 module spaces, and a weapons array of two medium and two small mounts. It has good armor and durability, though its mobility is bad.

The Kolonio is a dedicated carrier with 66 module spaces, two small weapon mounts and a special - Gravity Catapult, which accelerates the speed of the fighters as they cross the battlefield.

I'm planning to stick the carrier in the back of the formation, behind our battleship, so I'm going to go for the Kolonio class.

Our first carrier is the Lanner.

For the full list of new modules, see the next spoiler.

An odd feeling - I managed to use all the space perfectly, and I had space over after placing everything I considered necessary, so I had to go hunting for things that I said 'well, I'll throw that on'.

With the modules complete, we check on the weapons and come across a new variant - DB AS Lasers, which fire three times instead of the twice of D AS Lasers, and are more accurate.

Finally, we cap it off by selecting its fighter. The new fighters are the multirole Dividi and the striker Zarnica. I decide to go with the Zarnica, keeping with our Striker theme. The Dividi is a far weaker anti-ship platform (12 vs 18) while being only slightly better at anti-air operations (12 vs 10).

In total, the Lanner costs 22000 credits to outfit properly, but we have our first carrier.

I then go and update our other ships, including the Menthu, even though it will stay in storage for the time being.

Bugbear


Sharanga


Menthu


With all the ships now as modern as possible, I reorganize the fleet with the Lanner hiding in the back, our Bugbear in the middle, and Cico's Rudianos taking the lead still.
 

Spoiler: Modules Ahoy! (click to show/hide)

Splitting off the module selection, we've gotten a lot of new modules since the last time we've had a chance to look at them.

xxx
ooo - Nova Nacio Bridge Lv 1 - Gauge Speed +7
xxx

xxx
ooo - Second Bridge Lv 2, Gauge Speed + 3
xxx

xxx
oox - Navigation Bridge Lv 3 - Battle Speed + 6, Mobility +5
oox

xxx
oox - Radar Room Lv 4 - Range + 4000
xxx
Well, that's nice and compact.

xxx
xox - Lookout Lv 1 - Cruise Speed +4, Attack Range + 100
xox

xxx
oox - Engine Room Lv 4 - Cruise Speed + 14, Battle Speed + 12
xxx
Again, nice and compact.

xxx
oox - Hanger Lv 2 - Fighters +6, Maintenance +5
oox
The same size as the Lv 1 Hanger, you'll never use it again.

xxx
ooo - Maintenance Room Lv 2 - Maintenance + 20
xxx

xxx
oox - Maintenance Room Lv 4 - Maintenance +28
oox

xxx
oox - Captain's Cabin Lv 1 - Fame +300, flagship only
xxx

xxx
ooo - Briefing Room Lv 2 - Fleet Bonus +7, Captain Bonus +2
ooo

xox
ooo - Briefing Room Lv 3 - Fleet Bonus +10, Captain Bonus +3
ooo

xxx
ooo - Training Room Lv 1 - Maintenance Experience +2, Science Experience +2
xxx

xxx
oox - Shop Lv 2 - Livability +12, Cash Income +10
oox

xxx
ooo - Nature Dome Lv 1 - Livability +20, Cash Income +5
ooo

xxx
ooo - Gym Lv 2 - Livability + 15, Combat Experience + 3
ooo

xox
xox - Thruster Control Room Lv 2 - Mobility + 14
ooo

xox
xox - Amplified Lv 2 - Beam Attack +12
ooo

Spoiler: Further Adventures in Shopping (click to show/hide)

With our ships newly spiffed up, we head onward in the circle to Subpremi.

>>Subpremi
Our first stop is the tavern for the latest news, as always.
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: because of all its features, the satellite of this planet, Zefiro, is a popular sightseeing destination. People especially love the scenic tower. From up there, you've got a great view of practically the whole planet!

>>Guild
As the party enters the guild hall, they are nearly overpowered by the crowd and the stench of smoke. They look around and see several seasoned-looking men in the vicinity.

>>Talk to the man with the turned-up chin.

Lotuso: Nichjo Lotuso's the name. I'm an artillery expert. For only 100 G, I could whip one of your people into shape on the subject of artillery.

Yuri: (...)

We say yes and pay.

Lotuso: Good. Who needs my help, then?

Yuri: Let's see.

We can choose between Yuri, Torlo and Nia. None of them are a good choice, so we go with Yuri.

Lotuso: Right, then. I'm only gonna tell you this once, so listen up!

The screen fades out and in as he explains.

Lotuso: Phew. Well, that should just about cover it. I think you just might have some promise in you yet!

Yuri's Artillery skill increased by 1!

If we talk to Lotuso again...

Lotuso: So you're the captain, eh? Lemme see your phenomena log. I wanna see what you can do!

Yuri: Oh, okay.

Yuri hands it over and Lotuso goes over the hundreds of entries reading 'saw pirate, shot pirate.'

Lotuso: Hey, not bad. Not bad at all. What do you say? For only 1,000 G, I could be part of your crew.

Yuri: (What should I do?)
Hand over the money and say thanks, we need more artillery people.

Lotuso: Good, then. Nice to be aboard, Captain!

You paid 1,000 G! Nichjo Lotuso joined your crew!

>>Talk to the man with wild hairstyle.

Sceptro: Hey, kid. My name's Johano Sceptro. I've really gotta tell ya, you seriously ain't gonna find a better pilot than me.
Gadina might take exception to this.

Sceptro: For the price of a drink, I'll share my fine skills with ya. So whaddya say?
Sure.

You paid 100 G!
What the Grus does he drink?!

Sceptro: All right! Here's a guy who seriously knows how to put his money where his mouth is! I like you, man! I'm gonna give you a lesson you'll never forget!
This... doesn't sound like flying lessons.

Sceptro: Okay, who gets the lesson?

Yuri: Let's see.

Once again, Yuri, Torlo or Nia. None of whom are pilots.

Yuri it is!

Sceptro: Okay, we're gonna use that simulator there and have ourselves a little mock battle.

The screen fades out and in while Sceptro blows Yuri apart over and over.

Sceptro: Okay, time's up! See? It's too good to be true, right? Look how much ya learned!
Yuri learned that he's safer inside a battleship.

Yuri's Piloting skill increased by 1!

And talking to him again...

Sceptro: Hey, can I take a look at your phenomena log?

Yuri: Oh, sure. Here you go.

Sceptro: Well, it looks like you seriously got the adventuring spirit, that's for sure! And you're so young, too. You're too good to be true, kid! Hey, listen. I've been having a tough time finding myself a job. What say you hire me? Only 1,200 G and I'm yours!

Yuri: What should I do?
We need more pilots, so yes.

Sceptro: All right! We got a deal, then! I'll work my butt off for ya. Seriously! You won't be sorry, Captain!

You paid 1,200 G! Johano Sceptro joined your crew!

We head up and assign our new crew members to their posts.

Lotuso is best at Artillery or Combat, and has the special skill AS Genius, which is awesome. He gets to be Artillery Chief, an open position.
Sceptro is best at Piloting, but has no special skills. Best pilot ever, my ass. He goes under Gadina as Squadron 1 Chief.

Done with Subpremi, we head to its moon, Zefiro to check out the trade conference.

>>Zefiro
When we get there, we're greeted with a wonder of nature.

Tatiana: Wow, it's beautiful!

Torlo: What makes it look like that?

Ian: According to the guidebook, when the magma from volcano eruptions was cooled suddenly by the thin atmosphere, this caused some of it to turn into tiny tourmaline crystals. That's what's covering the ground and giving it that appearance.

Cico: Huh. I don't really get all that. All I know is, it sure is pretty.

Kira: isn't it, though?

Cico: ...

There's the Tavern and the famed scenic tower open at the moment.
>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: Welcome! What can I get for you!

Nia: Hold on. I got a question for ya first. They're holdin' a big convention on this planet now, right? Can ya tell me where it is?

Bartender: Oh, you mean the trade convention? I think they're having it at the trade hall in the center of the dome. They are supposed to be all kinds of VIPs coming to it. Security's really been ramped up. They won't let regular folk like us anywhere near the place.

>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Nia: Anyway, let's just go check out this trade hall.

Yuri: I don't know how close we'll be able to get.

Nia: True, but we need to at least go do some recon in any case, right?

Yuri: Yeah, I guess you're right.

The trade hall destination has opened up.
>>Trade Hall
A great number of guards are positioned all around the building in an imposing display of security.

Yuri: They're never going to just let us walk in there.

Nia: Shh. Look. Someone's going to the entrance.

As they peer out between some plants, Nia Lochlain and Yuri see an air car pull up in front of the gate. A man and a woman step out of the car, both dressed in formal attire. After speaking to the guards briefly, the smiling couple enters the building.

Nia: Huh. So they're checking IDs, are they? I guess ya really gotta be a big shot to get into a place like that.

Yuri: Well, that leaves us out.

Nia: Yeah, I guess it does. And it looks like there's a dress code, too. It must be some kind of shi-shi party. We'd never get in dressed like this, even if we were somebody.

Well, that's a bust.

Finally, we visit the Scenic Tower.

>>Scenic Tower.
Cico: Pssst! Hey, Yuri.

As soon as Yuri arrives at the top of the scenic tower, Cico puts his arm around his shoulders and steers him aside.

Yuri: What? You want to talk in private?

Cico: Yeah. About something important. but first, I got a question for ya. You and Kira are just, you know, brother and sister, right?

Yuri: What else would we be?

Cico: Okay, good. Then you won't mind if I ask her out, would ya?

Yuri: Of course not-- Hey, wait a minute!
No takebacks!

Cico: Shh! Keep it down!

Yuri: Oh. Sorry. But are you really serious about this?

Cico: You bet! I liked her from the first time I saw her. I don't like loud, aggressive women. Kira's just perfect. That's the kinda girl I'd like to marry someday.
She's not loud, but she can be aggressive. You could ask Argun, if you could find his head.

Yuri: M-Marry?! You've got to be kidding me! She's way too young for that!
Which is true.

Cico: I know, I know! I just said "someday," didn't I? Anyway, that's what's up, bro. Ya think you and the rest of the crew could kind of get lost? Leave the two of us alone? The view here's pretty sweet. It's the perfect date spot, ya know?

Yuri: ...

>> No way!

Cico: Why not? I mean, she's your sister man! Don't tell me you--

Yuri: Hey, don't get any weird ideas! It's not like that.

Cico: Then why the Grus not? C'mon, I'm begging you!

Yuri: ...

>>I said no!

Cico: ...

Yuri: ...

Cico: C'mon. Whaddya say?

Yuri: ...

>>I said no, didn't I?!
Cico: ...

Yuri: ...

Cico: ...

Yuri: ...

>> No.
Cico: ...

Yuri: ...

Cico: ...

Yuri: ...

>>But Thou Must!I give up.

Yuri: All right, fine. I give up! But if she wants to come back, you bring her back right away! And don't stay out too late. You got it?

Cico: I got it. Don't worry, man. I keep my promises.

Yuri: (sighs) Oh boy.

Yuri and the rest slip away.

Kira: Huh? Where's Yuri and the others?

Cico: Oh, they had something to do back on the ship.

Kira: In that case, I'd better get back, too.

Cico: No, they said you should just take your time and enjoy the scenery. It's not like you get the chance to check out an awesome place like this every day!

Kira: I suppose...

Cico: Aw, don't worry about it, Kira! If Yuri needs you, he's gonna get in touch!

Kira: Oh. Okay. I guess you're right.

With that, we're back at the planet menu. There's not a lot to do however. If we try to go back to the tower...

Yuri: (I wonder if Kira and Cico are still here. I don't want to spy on them. I guess I'd better turn back.)

Our friends don't have anything new to say, either.  With a shrug, we get ready to depart the planet once Cico and Kira are done. Tatiana catches us on this.

Tatiana: You're shipping out already? But Kira isn't back yet!

Yuri: She's not? Look how late it is!

Tatiana: Cico isn't here, either. Do you think something happened to them?

Yuri: Why that little... (grumbles) Aw, I'll go get them myself. I'm sure there's nothing to worry about!

Tatiana: Huh?

Yuri heads for the dome, where Cico and Kira's date continues.

Cico: I could look at this view forever.

Kira: Um... I think we'd better be getting back. It's getting kind of late.

Cico: Oh, right.

Kira: Shall we go, then?

Cico: Okay. But can we talk a little bit first? There's something I wanna ask you, Kira.

Kira: Hm? What's that?

Cico: I don't like to mince words, so I'll just get straight to the point.

Kira: O-Okay.

Cico: I like you, Kira. I want you to have my children someday.
He sure doesn't mince words, but he should be more careful! The last person to grab her like that got his head shot off.

Kira: What?! Uh... Gah...
Good job, hero, you broke her.

Cico: Not just one or two or anything like that. I'm taking lots and lots of babies. Like maybe ten, or even more! Whaddya say, Kira? Are you game?
Cico, you're making it worse somehow.

Kira: Are... Are... Are you kidding me?!

She hauls off and slaps him.

Cico: Ow!

Then she runs for it before he goes nuts again.

Cico: Hey, wait! ...
And I thought Yuri was hopeless.

Cico: What did I say?
I'm sorry, would you like that ordered by time or severity?

? ? ? : Hee hee hee! A tender, heartbreaking scene. I feel for you, boy. I really do. But now that you're alone, it looks like your luck is about to get even worse.

Cico: Huh? Who the Grus are you?

Oisin: My name is Oisin. And I'm here to take your life.

Cico: Huuuuuh?! You show up out of nowhere, spouting garbage... What are ya, off your rocker, you freak?

Oisin: Hee hee hee. Yes, yes. I might not be entirely right in the head.

Oisin: But there's nothing wrong with my arm!

Cico: Huh?!

And then we're at the orbital  station with Yuri again.

We head to the Scenic Tower.

Yuri: (Damn that Cico! Doesn't he have any idea what time it is?! I'm really going to let him have a piece of my mind!)

Yuri hears the sound of fighting in the distance.

Yuri: Huh? What's going on?

Oisin: Hee hee hee hee! Take that!

Cico: Agh!

Oisin: Hee hee hee! That tattoo on your chest! It's just as I suspected!

Cico: Huh?! If you know this mark, then that must mean you're... no way!

Oisin: Hee hee hee! That's right, my dear. I am your--

Yuri bursts into the room before the reveal.

Yuri: Cico!

Cico: Oh, Yuri!

Oisin: Tut tut! Just when this was starting to get fun. Let's settle this some other time, shall we, Cico?!

And with that, Oisin runs away.

Cico: Hey! Grus! He got away.

Yuri: Who was that?!

Cico: Uh, I dunno. Just some weirdo passing by.

Yuri: ...

In the spot where the mysterious man had been standing, Yuri and Cico see a scrap of black paper lying on the ground.

Yuri: Hey, what's this?

Cico: He must've dropped it. Finders keepers, huh?

Yuri: ...

Yuri picks up the scrap of paper and puts it in his pocket.

You got a black pass!

Yuri: Hey, wait a minute. Where's my sister?

Cico: Uh...
Sorry, got distracted fighting for my life.

Yuri: Hey, come on, Cico! Don't mess around!

Cico: Well... She went back without me.

Yuri: She went back without you? What do you mean?

Cico: I told her how I felt about her, told her I wanted her to have my children someday, all that sorta stuff... And then I dunno what happened, but I kinda think that maybe she got scared off.
You think?

Yuri: Uh, that would be enough to scare anybody off, springing that on her out of the blue like that!

Cico: Huh? Really? Where I'm from, that's just what a guy says when he tells a girl he likes her.

Yuri: ...

Cico: ...
Narrator: ...

Yuri: You know, I've been meaning to ask you something. Where exactly are you from, anyway?

Cico: Eh, I'll tell ya someday. Not now, though.

Yuri: Oh. Okay, whatever.

Cico: I guess we'd better head back.

Yuri: Yeah, all right.

And on that unsettling note (well, several notes), we leave Zefiro and travel to the last planet in this cluster, Strategio.

[C-SH4M4N]

Why do you keep a Destroyer? With all the G you probably have from fighting pirates, you should have more than enough to a line-up of 3 battleships, or 2 battleships and 1 cruiser, or 1 Battleship, 1 Cruiser and 1 Carrier.

Gunnery crews are going to have a fun time, with Popeye at the firing controls!

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

No one word was ever given on that weirdo attacking Cico. I always thought he was just a random assassin-type kind of mook, but when I got to the "Yuri the Man" segment, the Reveal that kicks off the chapter got me thinking if perhaps he didn't have a closer connection to our good ol' Cico.