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[Hanzoku]

Traitor's Ruse
New Characters: Balik
New Ships: Gromki B (CG)
New Equipment:  Navigation Bridge Lv1, AS Missiles S Lv1, AS Missiles M Lv1

Spoiler: The Quest for a Quest (click to show/hide)

When I last left off, we were told to go find something to keep us occupied while they decode the data Zakhar had gathered.  Once they discover where the base is, we'll go in and wipe out the pirates.

In the meantime, I start doing a planet-by-planet search for any side jobs that need doing.

Starting with Berezyi, we take out four groups of pirates and 9 ships total. Once there, the bartender doesn't have anything new to say, but our friends do.

Conversation #1
Torlo: But, yeah, at least we know Zakhar's all right now. Right, Tats?

Tatiana: Um, I guess so, but...

Torlo: As soon as we find out where that pirate base is, we're gonna crush those Novgorod jerks but good! Don't worry, Tats! Zakhar's gonna be free as a bird before you know it!

Tatiana: Okay...

Conversation #2
Kira: Yuri, could you come here for a minute?

After looking around furtively, Kira whispers in Yuri's ear.

Kira: Did you see Zakhar's eyes? They were so... weird.

Yuri: What do you mean by weird?

Kira: It was like he was looking  at us, but he wasn't really seeing us. Like a blank stare.

Yuri: You didn't say anything to Tatiana or Torlo, did you?

Kira shakes her head no.

Nodding, Yuri continues.

Yuri: Good. Let's just keep this between you and me, then, okay?

Kira: All right. I'll do whatever you say.
So... creepy.

Conversation #3
Gadina: You said your brother was acting funny... But, I mean, the guy's doing spy work. You can't expect him to act like Mr. Friendly, can you?

Tatiana: Maybe you're right. But it's really not like him. He's such a cheerful, open person. He's never been cold like that to me in my life, not even when I was visiting him at work!

Gadina: So, what, do you think he went over to the pirate side or something?

Tatiana: No way! He'd never do something like that! I mean, he'd never leave me alone like that!

Nia: Gadina, would ya quit making the poor girl freak out even more?

Gadina: Huh? Oh, yeah. Sorry about that.
I'm never quite sure that she's sincere when she apologizes.

Tatiana: ...

With the conversation options exhausted, we lift off from Berezyi and try Ruza again. Along the way, we get attacked by another 'No Escape' mini-boss encounter with a Rurik-class cruiser and escorts.

By the time we reach Ruza, we fight another four battles and another nine pirate ships have exploded.

Once at the planet, Nia has something to say.

Nia: Got a sec, kiddo?

Yuri: Stop calling me "kiddo," would you?

Nia: Get over yourself, kid! This is important stuff.

Yuri: What is it?

Nia: When we were fighting Galkin, we got a transmission.

Yuri: Oh, yeah. Kira told me. Wasn't it all just noise, though?

Nia: No, there was a QC pulse mixed in, actually.

Yuri: What's a QC pulse?

Nia: A quantum cipher pulse. It's a kind of encrypted code. Very hard to break. Anyway, we b roke it, and we found something really interesting inside.

Yuri: let me see... Tatiana in danger. Let her off ship." What's this all about?

Nia: I don't know. But they say there's people all over the place here that are in cahoots with the Novgorod Pirates. We can't be too careful.

Yuri: ... All right. Let's just keep this between you and me, though.

Nia: Good. That's what I was thinking, too.

After they finish talking, Kira comes up to ask Yuri a question.

Kira: Yuri. What were you and Nia talking about?

Yuri: Huh? Oh, just some stuff about the ship's maintenance.

Kira: Really? Huh.
I think she doesn't believe you.

Yuri: What?

Kira: Oh, nothing...

Ruza is lacking in new options and work, so we head back to Lutsk Base and then fly onward to Klaipeda. In what's turning into freak coincidence or odd programming, we fight four battles and destroy nine enemies for the third time.

Klaipeda has some new conversations:
>>Talk to your friends
Conversation #1
Karlo: They go after their enemy's weakness, be it physical or mental. Those Novgorod Pirates will stoop to any level, so watch your back!

Torlo: Don't sweat it, Karlo. Once we crush 'em, their dirty moves are gonna be history!

Karlo: I've seen with my own eyes, what they did to my father and his life's work. I know what they're capable of. So be careful, that's all I'm saying.

Once again, no jobs, so we leave and try Lutsk, bucking the trend in encounters with one, destroying two enemies. There's nothing new here, though. Onward to Popash!  We get there without a fight, and there's still nothing new.

Luckily, this phase is somewhat uncommon in the game - there's normally leads and specific places to go between missions, instead of being told to randomly fly around.

From Popash, we try Perekop, fighting four battles against eight enemies.

We try the tavern on Perekop and surprise a few employees.

>>Talk to Weapons Employee2
Conversation #1
Employee: So you've been to Efimov, have you? What a sad state of affairs that place is in! (sighs) You do know about it all, don't you? Efimov Incorporated, was subject to a hostile takeover by the Novgorod Pirates!

Karlo: I'm really sorry. I know how hard all of this has been on the employees.

Employee: What?! How--?! Karlo Efimov?!

Conversation #2
Employee: So Karlo Efimov is traveling with you, is he? Well, that's quite a surprise!

Once again, no employment opportunities, though we're making money hand over fist anyway due to pirates wanting to give us their plunder.  We travel from Perekop to Ketrzyn, and find some new conversations:

>> Talk to your friends
Conversation #1
Poplo: I think I remember seeing that Galkin fellow's style of navigation somewhere before, but I'm not sure where.

Nia: Are you sayin' you exchanged gunfire with him, too?

Poplo: No, not that I can recall offhand. But certain quirks of his seem so oddly familiar.

Yuri: Can navigation styles be that recognizable?

Poplo: Of course. Especally during battle, a person's maneuvers tend to take on a certain pattern. For example...

You got a lecture from Poplo on navigation! Yuri's Navigation skill increased by 1!

We finally hit paydirt when we ask the bartender about work to be had.

Bartender: Oh, I'm glad you asked! I just so happen to have the perfect job for a bunch like you. I have three delinquent customers that just won't settle up their tabs. I want you to go collect the money from them, and get me what's mine. The pay for this job is real good, too. 1,000 G! Will you take it on?

Of course we will. Flying around with a purpose: go!

Bartender: Oh, good! Okay, let me give you the details. The people I want you to collect from are...


- An adventurer guy on the planet Popash
- an adventurer guy on Lutsk
- A tough-looking guy you'll find on Ruza.

There are three people in all.

Bartender: Knowing those guys... You'll find each of them in the tavern on their home planet, drinking their time away, probably building up tabs there too. I want you to give each of them a good dressing down, and collect the full tab from them. You got it?  Good luck, and thanks for your help!

Since we've literally visited every other planet in the Sector to find this quest except one, I head for Nezhatin first, in case our companions have any other tidbits to share. Along the way, two cruiser mini-bosses appears and get swatted.

There's nothing new for us at Nezhatin, so I get on with running around on our quest to collect bar tabs. (They must have run up some serious  tabs to make hiring a zero-G Dog for a 1,000 G. worthwhile!)

From  Nezhatin, I strike out for Ruza first, then we'll visit Lutsk and then Popash before completing our circuit back to Ketryzn.  Between Ketryzn and Lutsk Base, we stumble across a resource asteroid I had missed before, earning us 300 G! just for traveling through the area.

On Ruza, we go to the tavern and track down the tough looking guy.

Tough-Looking Man: Heh heh heh! I sure am glad I joined up with the Novgorod Pirates! I got wine and women every night! I'm havin' the time of my life!

Yuri: Sorry, but that's all going to end for you today.

Tough-Looking Man: Oh yeah?! What do you want?!

Yuri: I'm here to collect on a little bill that you owe. It's time to pay up everything you owe the tavern on Ketrzyn.

Tough-Looking Man: Are you serious? Do you really think a little brat like you is gonna tell me what to do?!

The tough-looking guy and his ruffian friends attack!

A few minutes of unspeakable carnage later...

Tough-Looking Man: H-Here! Take it! It's all there! Now leave me alone!

You got the tough-looking guy to pay up!

Onward to Lutsk! I somehow reach there without a single fight, and talk to the Adventurer about his tab.

Adventurer: You can look for new crew members to hire at the guild. But keep in mind that the really good people won't have anything to do with a captain unless he's got some notoriety.

Nia: Cut the crap! We're here to have you settle up on a little outstanding bill of yours.

Adventurer: What?!

Kira: Okay, let's see. You owe the tavern on Ketrzyn... exactly 789 G. Please pay up now.

After the girls finish ganging up on him, he forks over the money.

Adventurer: Hmph. Maybe I oughta get the guild to find me some jobs, too!

You got the adventurer to pay up!

Off to Popash!

>>Talk to the male adventurer.
Male Adventurer: Well, what do you know? So you're from Ropesk, are you? The gals over there are something to look at, aren't they? In fact, the last time I was over there, there ewas this little--

Yuri: Forget about that for a second. I came here to collect on a bill you owe. Remember the tavern on Ketrzyn? It's time to pay up!

Male Adventurer: What?! Son of a --

A few minutes of vigorous 'persuading' with a blunt object later...

Male Adventurer: Oh, Grus! That's all the money I got! Looks like it's gonna be a lonely night for Robbie G.
Particularly since we broke both of your hands.

You got the male adventurer to pay up!

Debt payments in hand, we make our way back to Ketrzyn. Once there, I find out we've been flying long enough for a research upgrade, increasing the Anti-Ship ability of the Anubis by +2.

Honestly speaking, the 1,000 G. we'll earn from this quest is chump change. While finding and following the quest we ended up fighting 44 battles, destroying 98 enemy ships and earning somewhere around ~9700 G.

Bartender: Oh, you did it! All right, just like I promised. 1,000 G!

A job well done! You got 1,000 G!

With the only side quest available knocked out, we head back to Lutsk Base to see if they've succeeded in decoding Zakhar's data yet.

Spoiler: Going on the Offensive (click to show/hide)

When we reach Lutsk Base, the first thing we go to do is catch up with Commander Vladkykin.

Vladykin: Ah, Yuri! I've been waiting for you!

Yuri: Did you find the pirate base?

Vladykin: Yes, indeed. Take a look at this.

Vladykin: Their base is apparently deep within this asteroid sector. With the reduced effectiveness of radar in that area, it looks like the perfect hiding spot.

Vladykin: And according to Lieutenant Agarkov's reports, this indirect route is only lightly guarded, and a small fleet should be able to get through without any problem.

Nia: So that's the route we'll be using for the invasion, huh?

Vladykin: Yes, well, that's the route the better part of our fleet will use, anyway. But we're also planning to send a diversionary detail along this route, directly through the asteroids. You can choose which operation you'd like to take part in. It's your call.

Nia: Hm... Not an easy decision, is it?

Vladykin: Well, there's no need to decide right here on the spot. I'm sure you have other preparations to make as well. Just come back and let me know once you've made up your mind.

With that, we're shooed out the door to talk it over with our friends first. Before that, we visit the HQ. Tefed Mudakov, the local commander, isn't in right now, but we take the opportunity to annoy Captain Novikov.

Novikov: Hmph. You again.

Torlo: that's right. We're back! Didja miss us?

<Novikov>> I refuse to dignify that with an answer.
That's right, stay classy asshat. We'll get to you.

We talk to Vladykin again and can choose immediately or talk to our friends first. It's always good to know what your crew is thinking, so we choose to talk it over.

Vladykin: Have you chosen which operation you'd like to participate in?

Yuri: (... I guess I'd better talk it over with everybody first.) Can I get back to you on this?

Vladykin: Certainly. Take your time.

Yuri and his party proceed to the tavern to have a talk.

Yuri: All right, guys. What do you think?

Torlo: Yeah, I've been thinking about that. Tats, you said your brother was acting all weird, right?

Tatiana: That's right. He wasn't himself at all.

Torlo: Yeah, well, thinkin' about that's kinda got me all worried here.

Nia: So what are you trying to say, Torlo? Do you think Zakhar's intel is suspect?

Tatiana: What?!

Torlo: I wasn't gonna put it like that, but... Well... You know what I'm sayin', right Kira?

Kira: Leave me out of this! I have no opinion!

Torlo: Come on, help a guy out here!
Torlo, floundering as usual.

Nia: Anyway, it looks like it's gonna be a tough battle no matter what we do. It's all up to you, Yuri.

Yuri: Yeah, no pressure. (I wonder what that message meant, the one that came in when we were fighting Galkin... "Tatiana in danger. Let her off ship.")

Without prior experience of a guide to help you, you wouldn't know that the upcoming decision affects which of two characters you get. The easier indirect route gives you a new character sooner, who's mediocre. The direct route is harder, and your reward is a lot later in the game, but is a lot more useful overall. We'll be going straight down the center for this one.

>>Take the direct route
Yuri: We'll take the direct route.

Vladykin: So, you're going to participate in the feint operation, are you?
Is it still a feint if we jam a plasmic blade straight in the enemy's heart?

Vladykin: Thanks for your help on this. Just let us know when you're ready to proceed to the pirate base, and we'll all ship out together.

At the tavern we have some new conversations with our friends.

Conversation #1
Gadina: So, Captain, this is gonna be your first big operation with a real military force, ain't it?

Yuri: Yeah. And I'm kind of nervous. Well... Really nervous, actually.

Gadina: That's okay. It'll keep you on your toes! But are you making right use of those ship blueprints you got from Commander Vladykin? Number of ships, weapons, modules, editing your fleet and crew... You'd better take stock of those things before you head to the battlefield!
TLDR: prepare for boss battles. Check!

Yuri: Yes, ma'am.
You got a lecture from Gadina! Yuri's Leadership skill increased by 1!

Conversation #2
Torlo: Yeah! We're gonna pulverize those pirates!

Yuri: You're really ready for this, aren't you , Torlo?

Torlo: Oh yeah, I'm pumped! I'm gonna fight for my man, fight for my wo-man, fight for my life! Yeah!

Yuri: Uh, okaaay. Whatever floats your boat.
Well said, Yuri.

I was already prepared before talking to Vladykin. We could replace the Amun with another Derzky-class destroyer, but I'd rather save the money for some designs I know are coming up soon.

Departing the planet shows a new path that leads to the pirate base. We head off, straight into a cutscene.

Vladykin: We're ready to ship out as well.

Mudakov: Good luck in the upcoming battle.

Novikov: Yes. Make us proud, Commander.
Do well so I can steal all the credit, Commander.

Vladykin: I'll do my best, sir.

As we set off, so does the pride of the Elgavan Armed Forces.

As we hit the asteroid field, The scene shifts to Vladkyin's fleet, also entering an asteroid field.

Vladykin: Hm... There are lots of asteroids here, too. Watch out for an ambush.

Operator: Roger. Increasing power to the APF shields.

The ship shakes suddenly!

Vladykin: Did we run into an asteroid?!

Operator: No, it's a... It's a mass shell attack! here comes the second wave! And the third!

It looks like Torlo was right, for once.

Pirate ships come out of hiding from behind asteroids on both sides of Vladykin's fleet as the surprise barrage winds down. It is most definitely an Admiral Akbar-worthy "It's a trap!"

Vladykin: So it was an ambush! Why didn't the advance patrol pick up on them?!

Operator: it's impossible to properly detect an enemy presence in an asteroid zone like this!

Vladykin: Grus. Get me in touch with the Anubis.

The scene shifts to the bridge of the Anubis

Kira: Yuri, we've got a transmission coming in from Commander Vladykin.

Yuri: Hm? Open a channel.

Vladykin: Yuri! Can you hear me? Yuri!

Yuri: What's the matter, Commander Vladykin?

Vladykin: We walked right into a trap! An enemy fleet was waiting for us! We're currently engaging them!

Yuri: What?! (That means Lieutenant Agarkov's intel must've been a scam!) Commander, we'll be right over to back you up.

Vladykin: No. We'll take care of these guys. I want you to try to break through the enemy and get to Balik!

Yuri: But, Commander--

Vladykin: If we can take him out, the others should lose the will to go on! I need you to do this, Yuri!

Yuri: All right, Commander. Anubis, full speed ahead! We're coming for you, Balik!

As get close to the pirate base, we come under our own ambush.

Kira: Yuri! I'm detecting heat sources all around us! It's a solid ammo attack!

Yuri: What?!
Why surprised, Yuri? We were going straight down the center, we were bound to run into one.

The Anubis shudders as rounds start impacting close by.

We finally get to set eyes on the mysterious Balik.

Balik: Ha ha ha ha! This is the massive fleet that dares to come after me?

Yuri: You must be Balik.

Balik: That's right. And you can consider it an honor to die by the great Balik's hand, oh little one!

Yuri: You piece of Grus...
Grus - excrement and afterlife, all in one!

Nia: This looks bad, kiddo. We're completely surrounded.
So they've got us surrounded, good! Now we can fire in any direction, those bastards won't get away this time!" - Chesty Puller, USMC

Nia: And they've got a lot of experience fighting in an asteroid sector like this.

Balik: Ha ha ha ha ha! Now do you realize what a hopeless situation you're in? I can feel your despair just oozing through the screen! Oh, your expressions are simply priceless!

Balik's ship suddenly shakes.

Balik: What?! What was that?!

Pirate Underling: C-Captain! Somebody's attacking from the rear!

Balik: From behind us?!
That is where the rear is located. Except in your case, apparently.

A pirate ship comes out of cover of the asteroids.

Balik: Dedon Galkin! You dirty double-crosser!

Torlo: What's the matter? Can't get all your boys to play nice?

Nia: Looks like that Galkin guy is changing sides on Balik.

Yuri: This is our chance! We bring Balik down, now!

Torlo: I'm with ya, Yuri! Anything you say, man!

Nia: Be careful, Yuri. His missile attacks are solid ammo, so our APF shields aren't gonna help us. Remember, if we get hit, we're gonna get hit bad!

Yuri: Got it, Nia! Thanks!

We're thrown into a boss battle against Balik's fleet, presumably down a few members who are off tangling with Galkin.  We're facing Balik's missile cruiser with a destroyer and corvette escorting. We're already way too close to them, and don't have a lot of room to back off into.

The very first think Balik does is charge up a special barrage, attempting to pound us with missiles. We dodge the attack however, and build up charge to start stripping his escorts off.  A few rounds of regular shots and the escorts are down, leaving our largely unharmed ships facing Balik's cruiser. He obviously signals for another missile barrage, and we oblige him by dodging it again.  One barrage later, we win the fight.

Yuri: Did we get him?

Kira: I see an escape vessel. It's heading for the pirate base.

Yuri: We're not letting him get away!

We complete the rest of the journey to the pirate base and board it.  Immediately on entering, someone goes nuts and runs off.

Tatiana: Oh, Zakhar!

As soon as they enter the spaceport, Tatiana Agarkov goes running off the ship.

Yuri: Tatiana! Wait!
Probably why you were told to leave her behind. Just guessing.

Torlo: We gotta go after her! The place is still crawling with pirates!

Nia: Hey, Kira!

Kira: Huh?

Nia Lochlain tosses Kira a maser blaster.

Nia: From now on, you're gonna watch out for yourself. Got it?

Kira: Got it.

There's only one thing to do at this planet: Ransack Balik's base, find Balik and beat him like a pinata.

Let's get to it!

Inside the base, ominously red lit, Kira stops inside the door.

Kira: I hear a voice...

Torlo: Hey, that's Tats!

The group races to find her.

Yuri: (I'm pretty sure that voice came from that direction.)

We're introduced to another mechanic of the game - the ground dungeon. It's treated a lot like an old RPG - a series of corridors and rooms that can hold enemies, treasure or enemies with treasure.

Generally, most of the frustration with dungeons is making sure you explore the nooks and crannies for all the treasure, since sometimes the boss is a Load Bearing Boss.

Balik's base is pretty simple, we head inside to a T junction and take the left to the end.

Yuri: What's this?

On the base's operating system, the party finds data for a module! You got blueprinters for a Navigating Bridge 1 module!

The party can't go any further in this direction.

Yuri: (I guess we'd better turn around.)

Then we go back and take the direction right from the  T junction all the way to the end.

Obligatory evil throne room. Grus, it looks like it comes out of an evil wizard's lair, not a space pirate.

Torlo: Tats, baby cakes! You're all right!

Yuri: Uh oh.

Tatiana Agarkov stands in the middle of the room.  Balik and an expressionless Zakhar Agarkov stand in front of her.

Tatiana: Zakhar! It's me! Why don't you say something?!

Zakhar: ...

Balik: Heh heh. Don't waste your time, little girl. His brain has b een completely altered by the servonin in his bloodstream. He doesn't recognize you anymore.

Yuri: Servonin?!

Balik: Get them! Kill them all, Agarkov!

Zakhar: Graaaaagh!

He tackles into the group and starts beating on them.

Nia: Gah!

Torlo: Gak!

Yuri: Agh! His strength...it's superhuman!

Tatiana: Zakhar, stop it! No, Zakhar!
Bad Zakhar! Down! Heel!

Zakhar: Graaaaagh!
Too much?

Tatiana: (choking sounds)

Zakhar: (panting)

Tatiana: Z-Zakhar...

I don't think he needs that arm that much Yuri...

Zakhar: GRAAAAAGH!

Tatiana: (choking sounds)

Torlo: NOOOOO!

A weapon fires in the background.

Zakhar: ...

You saved her life, but shot her brother. Probably is a wash on whether she likes you better or not.

Tatiana: (gasping for air) (panting) Zakhar...

Torlo: Tats! Are you okay?

Tatiana: Zakhar... How could you? How could you shoot him?! You idiot! I hate your guts!

Torlo: I-I just...
saved your life, you ungrateful brat.

Tatiana: Zakhar! Zakhar!

??: Don't worry. He's still alive. I think he'll be all right.

Tatiana: Huh?

Galkin: ...

Yuri: Galkin?

Galkin: I don't think he got him in any vital areas. I'm more worried about the cardiac arrest the servonin caused as a side effect. But don't worry. He'll pull through if we take care of it quickly.
They're really calm about Zakhar flatlining on the ground at their feet.

Tatiana: R-Really? Are you sure?

Galkin: I'm sure.

Nia: So you've been workin' for the military too, huh?

Galkin: Yes, and it's been a tough assignment. And now it looks like Balik got away.

Yuri: Huh?

Yuri takes a long look around. Just as Dedon Galkin had said, Balik is nowhere to be seen.

Galkin: Commander Mudakov from the Lutsk Base is in these pirates' pockets, you know.

Yuri: Commander Mudakov is?!
I forgot that twist. Novikov is so unlikeable that it's obvious to suspect him. Mudakov seemed far more sincere.

Galkin: Yup. When Mudakov told the pirates Agarkov was a spy, they injected Agarkov with a synapse-generating serum called "servonin" so they could control his brain.

Yuri: ...

Galkin: In any case, Balik's fleet has been wiped out. Now all we have to do is grab Mudakov.

Yuri: I guess you're right. Let's head back to the Lutsk base.

With that, you leave the base. it's no longer accessable afterwards, so if you go the wrong way, you miss out on the module.

[Hanzoku]

Spoiler: Tying up Loose Ends (click to show/hide)

Leaving the Pirate base, we take the route back to Lutsk base. While Balik has evaded us, we can still capture his accomplice.

Looking at it now, it's disturbing how close the Interplanetary Union of Elgava was to losing the entire Lutsk sector. With the local sector commander in the pocket of the pirates and many of the local forces defecting to the pirates, only the arrival of a boy in an old, obsolete destroyer who goes on to wipe out some two to three hundred pirate ships prevented the sector from falling.

At Lutsk Base, Vladykin greets us as soon as we step off the ship.

Vladykin: Yuri! Thank goodness you're back safe!

Yuri: I'm glad you're all right, too, Commander.

Novikov: Thanks to you, Balik's fleet has been demolished. I give you my utmost gratitude!

Yuri: Thanks. But what about Commander Mudakov?

Vladykin: I already got a communication from Lieutenant Galkin that he was in cahoots with the pirates. I hurried back, but Mudakov had already taken off.

Yuri: I see.

Vladykin: But at least now this sector will finally get a chance to stabilize. I'd like to thank you again properly, so please stop by my lodgings later.

Thanks later, beer first!

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: Welcome to my tavern! The soldiers finally look happy again, don't they? I'm really glad about the way it all worked out in the end!

>>Talk to the soldier
Soldier: Those damn pirates! Thanks to them, we've got a ton of details to wrap up. I haven't been able to get home to see my family in ages! The last time I was home, my very own son called me "Mister"! Can you believe it? Now that's just wrong!
Poor man, no more pirates and still overworked.
>>Talk to your friends
Conversation #1
Poplo: Seeing Galkin's face jogged my memory. He used to work as an intelligence operative for the Central Sector of Elgava. He called himself "Alabysh" back then.

Nia: Do you think that's his real name?

Poplo: I doubt it. I bet only a handful of people in the military know his true name. But just the fact that he was a noted spy for Elgava... That's a real testament to his skill.

Conversation #2
Gadina: We just demolished a pirate base! It's time to kick up our heels and have ourselves a celebration!

Tatiana: ...
Down because she nearly got strangled and her brother is in the hospital

Torlo: ...
Down because Tatiana is pissed with him for saving her life.

Gadina: Aw, c'mon, guys! What gives?

Nia: I'll party with you, Gadina!

Gadina: That's my girl! We'll be drinkin' 'til dawn, Nia!

Nia: You can say that again! Woo hoo!

Conversation #3
Tatiana Agarkov sits by herself in a corner of the tavern, staring disconsolately at her water glass.

Tatiana: ...

Nia: Let's sit somewhere else, Torlo. It looks like Tatiana wants to be alone right now.

Torlo: Yeah, I guess you're right.

Yuri: ...

After everyone is partied out, Yuri goes and talks to Vladykin at his quarters.

Vladykin: Ah, there you are, Yuri! First of all, I wanted to talk to you about Lieutenant Agarkov. I'm afraid his recovery is going to take quite some time. It looks like the servonin they gave him was developed in the Large Magellanic Cloud, and we unfortunately don't have an effective way to go about treating him.

Tatiana: No! But that means --

Vladykin: Don't worry. The military medical organization is devoting its time to hopefully find a solution. I've already made arrangements to have Lieutenant Agarkov sent to Central Elgava.

Tatiana: ...

Vladykin: Now, then. I want you to know that Balik's forces have been destroyed, and it's all thanks to you. Here's a gift for you from Lieutenant Galkin.

You got blueprints for a Rurik-class cruiser!

Vladykin: As as a way of showing my own gratitude, I'd like to invite you to Central Elgavan Headquarters.

Yuri: Um... Thanks?

Nia: I dunno. That sounds kinda boring, if you ask me.
It's not a brand new cruiser design, no.

Vladykin: But that's where we've archived all of our space flight data. In other words--

Yuri: In other words, there might be Epitaph information there! Is that what you're saying?

Vladykin: Precisely. I gave you my word I would look into that, after all. When you get to the Central Elgavan Sector, Be sure to come visit me at Headquarters on Zvenigorod. The gate to Central Elgava is beyond the planet Berezyi. I hope you have a safe journey!

Yuri: (So we'll finally be going to Central Elgava!)

Nia: What about you, Tatiana? What are you gonna do now?

Tatiana: I want to help look for a cure for my brother. If you don't mind, I'd really like to come with you.

Yuri: Of course we don't mind. I'll even make you an official crew member.

Tatiana Agarkov became an official crew member!

After that, we visit the tavern again for another round of 'we'll be building a cruiser soon' drinks.

Yuri: Huh? Where are Torlo and Tatiana?

Kira: They took off somewhere.

Yuri: Oh, okay. It's really awful, what happened...

Kira: ...

Yuri: What do you think, Kira?

Kira: What do I think about what?

Yuri: Do you think what Torlo did was wrong?

Kira: I don't know. All I know is that, at the time, that was the only thing he could do.

Yuri: That's true.

Kira: But if it was you and me...

Yuri: Yeah?

Kira: I'd rather die than have you get shot.

Yuri: ...

Torlo: Tats... I...

Tatiana: I know. You were only trying to save me.

Torlo: I didn't know what else to do. I--

Tatiana: I know! Just shut up about it, already!

Torlo: ...

Tatiana: Do you think you could... just stay with me for a while?

Torlo: Of course. Sure. I'll stay as long as ya need me to.

Tatiana: Thanks, Torlo.

With that, we fade out and head to the station to build up our new ship.  The first thing we do is sell off the faithful Amun, She was a good and surprisingly effective ship for being a converted freighter.

By base stats, the Rurik-class cruiser is similar to the Derzky-class Destroyer, though with a heavier focus on anti-air capacity (which still doesn't matter.)

AA +26, AS -2, Cruise Speed +5, Battle Speed -6, Mobility -6, Armor -3, Durability +200, Livability -10

Where the cruiser comes into its own is the heavier weapons it carries - the Rurik-class has two medium and one small mounts, versus the one medium and two small of the Derzky-class.

Thus is the Asi born.

xxx
xox - Navigation Bridge Lv 1 - Battle Speed +2, Mobility +2 - 200 G.
xox

With a new cruiser outfitted and at our beck and call, we have only a few more things to wrap up before we start the next chapter.  As we leave, a discussion takes place at the base.

Novikov: Hmph. So that ragtag team of children have left port, have they? And now with Balik gone, this base should get pretty quiet.

Vladykin: Speaking of Balik, I got some very interesting intel from one of our operatives.

Novikov: Did you, now?

Vladykin: Yes, sir, very interesting indeed. He told me that one of Balik's men had been transferring funds... into your account, Captain.
Hey, I was right after all.

Novikov: Wh-What?! I--

Vladykin: Relax. Let's just say I'm willing to keep this bit of information to myself. But, in return...

Novikov: In return, what?

Vladykin: From now on, I want you to lend your full support to our Reform Faction.
Well, they did say he'd play dirty for this faction.

Novikov: Hm...

>>Klaipeda
>>Talk to the Bartender
Bartender: I heard Efimov on Perekop is backu p and open for business. They apparently deal in some pretty unusual weapons. You should go check them out. They might be right up your alley.

>>Talk to the merchant
Merchant: Not a hide nor hair of a single pirate on any of the starlanes around here! Business has never been better!
No, they're all gunning for us now.

>>Talk to your friends
Conversation #1
Karlo: So Tefed Mudakov was double-crossing the military, was he? he must have been the one behind the murder of my father and the downfall of his company! This battle won't be over for me until  exact my revenge on Mudakov!

>>Lutsk
>>Talk to your friends
Conversation #1
Nia: After all this work you've done for him, that Vladykin guy owes you big time!

Yuri: Yeah, maybe.

Nia: Hey, kiddo. I know how you feel, but don't let it get the better of you. You start draggin' that kind of baggage around, and next time it's gonna be you.

Yuri: I know it.Thanks.

>>Popash
>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender: Now that the Novgorod Pirates are gone, this sector is getting to be a pretty safe place to live. People are starting to come over from the Ropesk Sector, and business has never been better!

>>Perekop
>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender:  The word is that Efimov Incorporated, was taken over by pirates.  But now it looks like they've all been kicked out. it's a relief, I tell you. Now maybe my tavern can get back to normal. No more brawls and trouble-starters!

>>Weapons Employee 1
Employee: (sighs) The pirates areall finally gone from Efimov now. But I've already turned in my letter of resignation! What am I going to do now?
Explain that you're happy to work under the non-pirate management?

>>Weapons Employee 2
Employee: Once Balik got ousted we were successful at getting those pirates out of our company, as well. We heard it was you and your group that got rid of Balik for us. Believe me, we are truly grateful! Thank you! We really, truly appreciate it!

We visit Efimov, Incorporated. next to let Karlo check up on his company.

Employee: Oh! It's the president, Mr. Efimov! Welcome back, sir!

Karlo: Thank you. But it's thanks to these good people here that Balik was driven out of the sector.

Employee: Oh, was it, now?! Thank you, then! Because of you, we were able to kick the pirates out of our company as well. Will you be  coming back to the company now. Mr. Efimov?

Karlo: I'm afraid not. I want to spend more time with these people, traveling the universe. I still have a lot to see and learn.

Employee: I see, sir. That's a shame for us.

Karlo: ...

Employee: But I understand! And while you're gone, we'll do our best to take care of your company for you. Before you leave, please take a look at Efimov's fine products.

AS Missiles S and AS Missiles M can now be equipped at a remodeling shop!

>>Ketrzyn
>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender: You know, until real recently, this planet was right under the thumb of the Novgorod Pirates. From what I understand, Commander Vladykin's forces drove them out of the sector. It's great. I can finally give my wife and kids a better life, now that the pirates aren't taking a hefty cut!

>>Nezhatin
>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender: Even though the Novgorod Pirates have been taken out of commission, the crime rate still seems to be about the same. I guess there's just a lot of messed up stuff going on in the world today.

>>Ruza
>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender: It makes no difference to me whether the Novgorod Pirates are gone or not. I do whatever I want! No damn pirates or government bullies are ever gonna push me around!

>>Talk to the tough-looking guy
Tough-Looking Guy: (sighs) I never thought the Novgorod Pirates would just roll over so easy like that. Now how am I gonna make a living?

>>Berezyi
>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender: Welcome! This tavern has the seal of approval of the Central Elgavan Forces, just so you know. So that means that even youngsters like you and your friends can feel perfectly at ease here.

Having finished the planetary tour to get everyone's reactions to the fall of the pirates, we travel through the Void Gate beyond Berezyi. It's time to visit the Central sector of Elgava.

That wraps up  the second Chapter of the game. There's a bit of a difficulty bump when you're in an underpowered, obsolete destroyer and on your own. The sector becomes far more managable once you talk to Gen and can pick up a second destroyer, and upgrading one (or both) to a modern design smooths things over nicely.

Otherwise, this chapter mostly sets us up with our overall quest - finding Valentin and getting our McGuffin back - and our (current) antagonists, the Novgorod Pirates. We're currently supporting a (generally good) government against cruel and vicious pirates, but politics will become more complicated in the future.

Next up, thanks for voting everyone! The winner of the poll for battleship names was mythological names, edging out a second-place tie between violent weather and the end of the world. (My personal favorite. For some reason I like calling an endgame battleship the 'Apocalypse', but the voters have spoken!)

The next (and last ship poll) will be for the naming scheme for carriers. The winner, as always is dropped, as is 'Large Predators' (no votes) and 'Cataclysms' (The carrier Ragnarok just doesn't have the same ring to it.) In their place we have Birds of Prey, Volcanos, and user write-in. If you're suggesting a theme, try to make it something that can have 10-15 names to it to give room for random choice!

[Sirus]

Howdy!

Watching this because, well, my own kinda fell flat after I burned out on it. Not sure if its the one you folks were talking about or not :/

Anyway, I wish you the best of luck! Looking forward to seeing what another Infinite Space player does, since I think I'm the only person in my whole state that has played it

[Hanzoku]

Yours was indeed the first (and only other) Infinite Space LP on these forums. I agree that it seems to be really rare, also online, which is a shame.

[Jarod Cain]

Just chiming in, still reading and enjoying. I'd forgotten in some ways how much of a slow boil this game's story really is, but if memory serves once you finish Central Elgava (Space Russia) things start really taking off.
-J-

[kaian-a-coel]

PTW.

[Hanzoku]

Yeah, we're still in the part that makes sense. Once the freaky shit kicks in

Spoiler: This is really a spoiler (click to show/hide)

Such as giant screaming space-head-gates, massive reality reversions as part of the plot, etc.

then the plot really starts going on a roller coaster ride.

[Sirus]

Yeah, but it was still all fun as far as I got.

[Hanzoku]

Rescuing Cross-Dressed Crewmembers
New Characters: Argun, Ian, Melania
New Ships:  Sokol A (M), Bodry A (M), Gnevny A (DD), Novik A (DD), Rurik A (CG), Borodino (BB)
New Equipment:  AS Ship Laser L Lv1, AS Ship Laser M Lv2, AS Ship Laser S Lv2, Sick Bay Lv2, Shield Generator Lv2

Spoiler: Getting Entangled for Fun and Profit (click to show/hide)

Floating around the internet are various attempts to provide a scale of sci-fi technology. Whichever one you want to use, building a whole artificial planet is pretty damn high. Oh, and that brown thing? I think it's one crispy-fried cruiser after we got done with it.

Balik: Argun! Argun, where are you, my brother? Ah, Argun! There you are!

Argun: Balik. It's good to see you. But do tell me... What the Grus happened to your ship? It looks like you've been through a firestorm and back!

Balik: yes, yes! Listen to what happened to me, my brother! It's all due to this one annoying punk... Ugh! I just be losing my touch.

Argun: What's this? I didn't know the Elgavan army had any soldiers with that kind of backbone!

Balik: No, he's not a soldier. He's a little brat! I, the great Balik, have been bested by a mere child! Oh, it's so humiliating.

Argun: What's this, now?! Is that really true? This child sounds quite interesting! I think I would enjoy killing him, slowly and with relish. In any case, there's plenty of wine and wenches here. Relax and make yourself at home. And do tell me the whole story!

Balik: Thank you, Argun.

With that, the scene fades and we're in the Central sector. It's obvious that there's a lot of hidden paths to uncover while we're here - for one thing, we know of nothing in Area 1, and Area 4 has a destination that is as yet unlinked to anything.

We make our way to Paozero to find out what's shaking in this sector.

>>Paozero
>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender: Did you know that the group that calls itself the Medic Organization is headquartered on Nerekhta? The Medic Organization is a group of volunteers that goes around to different war-torn and messed up areas to treat the sick and the injured. It's completely not for profit, and runs all on public donations. It's a mighty fine organization if you ask me!

>>Talk to your friends
Conversation #1
Torlo: Epitaphs, eh?

Yuri: What, haven't you ever heard of the legend of the Epitaphs, Torlo?

Torlo: Yeah, I guess maybe I have but that don't mean I believe it. Back on Bagut, when I heard you and Nia talkin', I just thought I could get me a chunk o' change for it, that's all.  I guess I just don't have that "love of mystery" or whatever it is that you sorts have.

Yuri: is that right? I'm kind of surprised.

Torlo: I'm actually more of a realist, believe it or not. If you make the Epitaph legend come true, though, that's a whole different story. I'll believe in it then!

Yuri: I guess we'll both have to wait and see, then, whether or not the Epitaph will change the universe.

Torlo: I guess so.


From Paozero, we can reach Zvenigorod or Chernesk. We'll head to Zvenigorod first, as we have a standing invitation from Commander Vladykin.

>>Zvenigorod
When we approach, we get a cutscene at the Central Elgavan Forces Headquarters.
Novikov: I hear that your favorite youths have just entered the port.

Vladykin: Yes, I just got the report myself.

Novikov: Are you planning on using them for the current situation?

Vladykin: Yes, well, I guess that's up to them...

Novikov: Hmph. You're from Alatyr yourself, aren't you, Commander?

Vladykin: Yes, sir.

Novikov: Of course, the Central Elgavan Forces can't be deployed too hastily in a situation like this. That must be frustrating for you.

Vladykin: ...
Novikov, still an asshole, even when you have a hook in him.

Scene done, we descend to the planet. Zvenigorod is a busy place, with a Tavern and three event locations - Central HQ, the officer lodgings and a hospital.
>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender: I hear Balik got his ass handed to him. That's crazy, huih? But the Novgorod Pirates still have a lot of other ships and leaders, enough to keep us all looking over our shoulders. I'm looking forward to the day when we can travel through space without having to worry about scum like that.

>>Visit the hospital
In a private room, Zakhar Agarkov lies motionless in a treatment capsule. Just as he promised, Oleg Vladykin is apparently seeing to it that Zakhar gets the best care possible.

Doctor: About the servonin, I'm afraid that all we can do for him is keep him stabilized at this point. If only we had someone here from the Large Magellanic Cloud who knew how to treat him...

Tatiana: ...

Torlo:  Don't worry, Tats. We'll go all the way to the LMC ourselves if we've got to. Won't we, Yuri my man?

Yuri: that's right. Once we get a little more experienced and capable, we'll go to the LMC or wherever we need to.

Tatiana: Thank you.

>>Visit Central HQ
Vladykin must have left word with the guards. As soon as the party gives their names, they are quickly escorted to a room.

Vladykin: Ah, Yuri, here you are! I've been waiting for you. I'm glad to see you. All the way from Ropesk, eh?

Yuri: Yes, thanks to all the help I got from Nia and my friends.

Vladykin: But that's the way of the spacefarer, is it not? There's no need to be ashamed of getting a little assistance along the way. Now, then, down to business. I have several things to discuss with you.

>>> Talk about Epitaphs
Vladykin: Ah yes, about those Epitaphs...

Yuri: Did you find anything out?

Vladykin: Not yet. A close examination of all our space flight data is taking quite a bit of time, I'm afraid.

Yuri: Oh, I see. Oh well.

>>>Talk about Dedon Galkin
Yuri: Did something happen to Lieutenant Galkin?

Vladykin: Yes, well, this is the situation. There's a dispute between the planets of Alatyr and Driutesk over an area with resource-rich planets located between them. We've sent Lieutenant Galkin out on an intelligence mission to try and solve that dispute.

But, unfortunately, he's having a very difficult time of it. I was hoping that you might assist us.

Nia: What, so now we have to do another little job for ya before you give up any Epitaph info, is that it?

Vladykin: No, no. That's not the case at all.
Yes.

Vladykin: This is just a personal request, a favor, if you like.

Nia: Hmph.

Yuri: That's fine. I don't know how much help we can be, but we'll do what we can.

Nia: Are you sure, kiddo?

Yuri: Yes. After all, Lieutenant Galkin helped us out when we needed it. Besides, it's just a dispute right now, and we don't want it turning into a full-blown war. That would mean the loss of a lot of innocent lives. If we can help solve the problem before that happens, I think we should.

Nia: ...

Vladykin: I'm grateful to you, Yuri. Right now, Lieutenant Galkin is operating out of the planet Nerekhta. I'd like you to go there and get in touch with him directly.

>>>Talk about Balik.
Torlo: So that Balik bastard is still free as a bird, ain't he?

Vladykin: Yes, I'm afraid so. We got a report from sector patrol that a ship, apparently Balik's ship, was seen heading towards Medyn.

Yuri: Where's Medyn?

Vladykin: It's a remote artificial planet, the base of Argun Narevin, another major player in the Novgorod Pirates. Now that Balik has lost all of his men, I can only assume he plans on joining up with Argun.

Torlo: Grus! We can't just let Balik go runnin' around out there, doing whatever he wants! Not after what he pulled with Tats' bro! Ain't that right, Yuri?

Yuri: That's right. I haven't forgotten about him, believe me.

Vladykin:In that case, please help us get rid of these pirates. We will, of course, do everything we can from our end as well. And that's all I have to discuss for now.

Nia: Whew! We just came here to get some info, and you end up sending us out on all kinds of errands!

Vladykin: I apologize. I plan to do everything I can to make it worth your while. Please stop by my quarters at the officers' lodgings later, if you wouldn't mind.

>>Visit the officers' lodgings
Oleg Vladykin is there at the officers' lodgings.

>>>Talk to Oleg Vladykin.
Conversation #1
Vladykin: I know this is small thanks for what I'm asking, but I'd like to instruct you in the theory of making the best use of your fleet. Do you have some time for that?
YES.

Yuri: Sure. That would be great.

Vladykin: Good, then. Some of this might be difficult to follow, but please do your best. First of all, let's talk about CIC information sharing...

The screen fades to black as they have a long discussion

Vladykin: That's all. Let me give you these blueprints as well. Please make good use of them in your journey!

Yuri: Thank you.

You got blueprints for a Borodino-class battleship! You acquired the Special Skill, "Fleet Leader Lv. 3"! You can now have up to three ships in your fleet!
And this is why I wanted to get the battleship naming poll done already!

Conversation #2
Vladykin: You're a fast learner, my boy. I knew I saw great potential in you! I look forward to seeing what you can do.

>>>Check your assignments
Vladykin: Double-checking your assignment, eh? What would you like to ask about?

>>>>Settling the dispute
Vladykin: Settling the dispute between Alatyr and Driutesk, eh? Please go to the planet of Nerekhta and get instructions from Lieutenant Galkin.
>>>>Wiping out the pirates
Vladykin: Right. Getting rid of Argun Narevin and Balik. Their base on Medyn will have to be infiltrated.

Talking done, we take our leave, though a scene occurs behind us.

Vladykin: Huh?

Yuri's party leaves the room, but Nia Lochlain remains behind.

Vladykin: Can I help you?

Nia: Just thought I'd have a little word with ya.

Vladykin: I'm listening.

Nia: And I'm talking. After this is over, you won't be using Yuri for any of your little schemes again, you got that?

Vladykin: Using him?

Nia: You heard me. I know what's going on here. The Reform Faction, the Conservative Faction, and all the regional forces, they're all squabbling over power. So you're trying to get around all that by using Yuri and his crew, because you know they've got no ties to any of them.

Vladykin: Hm. I can't deny it, but I don't want you to think that's all there is to this. The truth of the matter is, I've taken a real liking to the boy.

Nia: I'll be nice and pretend to believe that. But this is the last time you use him to do any of your dirty work. You got me? I don't want you getting that kid all mixed up in your messy political Grus.

Vladykin: Understood.
Nia is far sharper then she lets on sometimes, and doesn't take crap from anyone.

Up the elevator, we visit the shipyard. A new battleship is a massive investment - in my first game, I couldn't afford one straight away. This time around, we've been fighting so many pirates that it won't be an issue.

Befitting a battleship, there's a mass of space. I'd normally fill it out more, but there's a slight problem... after installing everything except an Amplifier, we're flat broke. (5 credits to our name, even!) We need something like 8000 G. to finish outfitting our new ship, and ~1500 for some upcoming quest expenses.

Whatever shall we do?

... I'll be right back, going to rampage through the pirates a few dozen times. During the rampage, I visit all the sectors and snag 300 G near Ostrog in Sector 4. No other goodies present themselves, so I'm left to wiping out the pirate menace until I can finish equipping our ships.

Rampage  complete, I visit a friendly shipyard and overhaul our battleship.

Meet the Fomorian, our first battleship.  It's the only battleship design used by the Central Elgavan Forces, and overall it's a solid but not a massive jump in firepower over the Rurik-class cruiser we were using before. It comes equipped with one large, one medium and one small flexible mounts, and one fixed small missile launcher. It's real advantage is in the large amount of space it offers, letting us equip just about anything we want to at this point in the game.

Its firepower is also more than sufficient against the pirate ships we're currently facing, which are all reskins of ones we fought in the last sector. They're marginally tougher, but nothing to write home about.

The other task at the shipyard is to upgrade the weapon systems on the Asi and Anubis. Central sector introduces the first weapon upgrades - AS Laser M Lv2 and AS Laser S Lv2. They hit almost as hard in one shot as our D-AS Laser Lv1s do in two, which means less chance for the enemy armor to reduce our damage done. They're also marginally more accurate and longer range.

With our fleet ready, we'll start with resolving the dispute between Alatyr and Driutesk first. (Mostly because we're required to, we can't go further with the pirates yet.)

Spoiler: Good Deeds For Selfish Reasons (click to show/hide)

One of the somewhat hidden opportunities to acquire ship designs is activated right after we visit the hospital.  To do so, we visit Chernesk.

>>Chernesk
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: Did you know that right here in Chernesk there's a company that designs ships for the Elgavan Forces? But its location is top secret, having all those ties to the military and all.

>>Talk to the middle-aged man
Middle-aged Man: What am I going to do? The medicine we need for my daughter's illness is just about to run out! It's a drug called polyphermin, and they only have it at the really big hospitals. But there aren't any big hospitals around here...
It's not stated as a quest, but you know where a hospital is, so...

We head back to Zvenigorod and visit the hospital there.

>>Hospital
Yuri: Oh, hey. In a big place like this, I'll bet they have polyphermin.

Yuri goes to the dispensary and asks about polyphermin. Apparently, it can be purchased for 150 G.

Yuri: I'd like to buy some of that polyphermin.

You paid 150 G! You got some polyphermin!

And back we go to Chernesk to do our good deed. Arriving, we get a ship upgrade event (Fomorian's AS +2), and talk to the middle-aged man again.

Conversation #1
Yuri: Here you go.

Yuri gives the polyphermin he bought to the middle-aged man. With an incredulous expression, the man leaps out of his chair.

Middle-aged Man: Is this polyphermin?! You bought this and brought it all the way back here for me?!
Yah, it was about 30 seconds of work.

Middle-aged Man: Thank you! Thank you very much! Here, please take these! It's a token of my gratitude!

You got blueprints for a Novik-class destroyer! You got blueprints for a Gnevny-class destroyer!

Yuri: These are Novgorod Pirate ships... Are you a...?

Middle-aged Man: Heh. I did a lot of foolish things when I was younger. I used to think my daughter's illness was punishment for my past. But now that I'm leading a decent life, people like you have come along to show me the way. I sure am glad I changed my ways all those years ago!

Conversation #2
Middle-aged Man: This medicine will surely help my daughter get better. I'll never forget what you did for us, not as long as I live!

The designs are mostly gotten for completion's sake - neither design is as good as the Derzky-class design we already possess.

From Zvenigorod, we make our way to Nerekhta,

Abandoning our typical approach at port, we go and check out what the Medic Organization is about first.

>>Medic Organization
Conversation #1
Receptionist: Welcome to the Medic Organization, a volunteer medical group. Medic Organization volunteers travel throughout the fifty-seven star systems of the Interplanetary Union of Elgava, treating countless people who suffer from sickness and injury.

With a smile permanently glued to her face, the receptionist sounds as if she's reciting a passage from the brochure. She finishes this part of her speech without giving Yuri's party a chance to speak, and then continues, holding out a card reader.

Receptionist: The Medic Organization operates solely on the kind donations of its supporters.

Yuri: Oh... Uh...

Torlo: Er, I think she's sayin' she wants us to give 'em some G.

Tatiana: It would appear so, yes.

Yuri: ...

Yuri donates 500 G.

Receptionist: Thank you very much! Your generosity will help save many, many people's lives. As a small token of our appreciation, please accept this handy medical treatment kit.

Still smiling, the receptionist hands them a tiny first-aid kit, about four inches square in size.

Nia: Uh, you guys really went all-out on this one, eh?

Receptionist: Oh, yes. Retail value, 2 G. Here at the Medic Organization, we firmly believe in rewarding kindness with kindness.

Nia: Right. Gotcha. So who are ya gonna give this thing to, Yuri?

Yuri: Well, let's see...

You can choose between Nia, Kira or Tatiana. Since none of them will ever be in a medical position, it doesn't matter at all. I give it to Kira as she does the fleet first aid command, so it's at least thematic.

Yuri: Here you go, Kira.

Kira: Thank you, Yuri.

Kira's Medicine skill increased by 2!

Receptionist: Thank you for your generous donation.

All smiles, the receptionist watches Yuri and company leave the Medic Organization.

Conversation #2
Receptionist: Welcome to the Medic Organization, a volunteer medical group.

Giving Yuri's party a dazzling, fake smile, the receptionist suddenly holds out a card reader to them.

Yuri: Huh?

Kira: Another donation?

Torlo: Sure looks that way.

Yuri pays another 500G.

Receptionist: Thank you for your generous donation.

All smiles, the receptionist watches Yuri and company leave the Medic Organization.

Without a reward the second time, without a strategy guide most people probably won't try a third time.

Conversation #3
Receptionist: Welcome to the Medic Organization, a volunteer medical group.

Giving Yuri's party a dazzling, fake smile, the receptionist suddenly holds out a card reader to them.

Yuri: Huh?

Kira: Another donation?

Torlo: Sure looks that way.

Yuri pays another 500G.

Receptionist: Thank you for your continued generosity. You've made three donations, so you're now officially a gold member!

Yuri: A gold member, huh?

Nia: What is this, some kind of skeezy "gentleman's" club?
Luckily, no.

Receptionist: Here you are. These blueprints were developed exclusively by the Medic Organization for our kind donors.

Yuri: Wow, look at this...

You got blueprints for a Sick Bay 2 module! You got blueprints for a Shield Generator 2 module!

Receptionist: Thank you for your generous donation.

All smiles, the receptionist watches Yuri and company leave the Medic Organization.

Conversation #4
Receptionist: Ah, Gold Member Yuri! Please accept this Medic Organization brochure, detailing our activities.

Yuri: Uh... thanks.

Torlo: Tell her ya don't want it, Yuri. You're just gonna throw it away later.

Yuri: Be quiet, Torlo!

Yuri accepts the data plate that contains the brochure, and the party exits the Medic Organization. It goes without saying that the brochure was subsequently thrown away without ever being read.
Hehe.

Receptionist: Thank you for your generous donation.

All smiles, the receptionist watches Yuri and company leave the Medic Organization.

xxx
ooo - Sick Bay Lv 2 - Med Tech +6, Livability +6
xxx

xox
xox - Shield Generator Lv 2 - Anti-Beam +10
oox

These are some of the more expensive modules we'll be buying for a while, but we contributed to a good cause while doing so, at least!

After refitting the Fomorian with the new modules (and going near-broke again), we head to the tavern to find Galkin.

Galkin: Good, you're here. The commander told me you'd be coming.

Yuri: Lieutenant Galkin!

Nia: What, you're still dressing like that?

Galkin: What, this? Yes, let's just say it's a lot easier for me to get around this way.
And the artists are lazy and didn't want to draw him new sprites.

Galkin: But never mind that. There's somebody I'd like for you to take on as a crew member. Would you like to meet him?

Yuri: Another crewmember, huh?

Galkin: He was born on the planet Gorodok, and he's an expert on the sectors around here. I think he'll be useful on this mission. Wouldn't you agree, Ian?

A teenage boy steps forward from behind Dedon Galkin.

Ian: I'm Ian Fenevich. It's nice to meet you.

Yuri: Good to meet you too. I'm Yuri, the captain.

Ian: Captain? You?!
Good first impression, Ian.

Yuri: What, do you have a problem with that?

Ian: Uh, whatever. I'm just here to help out. Lieutenant Galkin already paid me up front, so I suppose I'm committed.

Yuri: Uh, great.

Ian Fenevich joined your crew as a temporary crew member!

Yuri: Anyway, Lieutenant Galkin... You were going to tell us more about the dispute between Alatyr and Driutesk, right?

Galkin: Right. Let's get down to it, shall we?
Sure, in a few minutes.

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: I hear Balik of the Novgorod Pirates got his ass kicked by some little kid. Can you believe it? I don't care whether or not Vladykin was helping him. Balik sure must be getting old! Either that, or this kid is really something else. I dunno, though.

I'd put my money on Balik being too old to fight! Ah ha ha ha!
Want to step into the street and say that to Yuri again?

>>Talk to Dedon Galkin
Conversation #1
Galkin: The root of the problem is the Buzhsk Star System, which lies between the two planets that are having the dispute. At one time, the two nations even signed an agreement saying they would divide the Buzhsk Sector up... But then Driutesk suddenly decided to start mining resources on the other side of the boundary.

As things stand now, both sides have brought out fleets and are trying to stare each other down. At this rate, a war could break out at any moment.

Torlo: So how come the Central Elgavan Forces aren't movin' on in, then? They oughta be able to make 'em see the light.

Galkin: It's not that simple. They're both part of the Interplanetary Union of Elgava, but they're independent, autonomous nations too. If Central intervenes too strongly, they will take a lot of criticism.

Torlo: Sounds like a royal pain in the ass to me.

Galkin: yes, well... Even though Elgava is the largest alliance of nations in the Small Magellanic Cloud, with a claimed 30,000 ships in its fleets, its real power is a little questionable.

Yuri: But how could we possibly help with a serious dispute like that?

Galkin: Well, I'm glad you asked...

Conversation #2
Galkin: At this point, we're not asking you to get directly involved. We just want you to go find somebody for us.

Yuri: A missing person?

Galkin: That's right. His name is Gennadiy Alabyshev, and he's a legendary tactician that used to work for the Central Elgavan Forces. Commander Vladykin thinks he might be able to come up with a good way to solve this dilemma for us.

Nia: How are we supposed to find this guy?

Galkin: He withdrew from the public eye after retiring and is traveling the universe now. He'd be an old man by now, over seventy.

Nia: Oh, boy. That's all we've got to go on?  It'll be like trying to find a needle in a haystack. A really old haystack.

Yuri: We'll do our best.

Conversation #3
Galkin: I'm telling you... Trouble is piled up a mile high every place we turn! It's pretty frustrating. I'm sorry bother you with this, but we were really hoping you'd be able to find Gennadiy Alabyshev for us.

Nia: That's easy for you to say! Do you have any idea how many old men over seventy there are in this sector alone?

Galkin: That's the best we can tell you, I'm afraid. That's all the information we have on the man. Oh, that and the fact that somebody reported seeing him in the remote frontier, in the Lutsk Sector. I can't guarantee that tip is any good, however.
Hm... an old man by the name of Gennadiy who's a master tactician and might possibly be willing to train aspiring young ship captains. I can' think of who that might... never mind. We'll head right back and pick him up.

Before we leave, we head by the CTA and check on Ian. His best skills are in Leadership, with Control and Science a close second. He has two special skills

Cool & Calm - +Gauge Speed in the Operator position.
Mr. Precise - +AS/AA for duration of buff

I prefer Kia's medic skill, despite her poorer Leadership trait, so Ian becomes the Assistant Operator under Tatiana to take advantage of his Cool & Calm skill.

[Hanzoku]

Spoiler: Crossdressing and Abductions (click to show/hide)

What we should be doing is going back and picking up Gen, but for now I'll visit some new planets that open up now that we've visited Nerekhta. Traveling to higher sectors, we can visit Zarub and onward to Gorodok. Traveling to lower sectors, we can visit Alatyr and an unnamed location.

>>Zarub
Visiting the port here, Ian stops Yuri for a conversation.

Ian: Hey, can I talk to you alone for a moment?

Yuri: What is it?

Ian: I've been watching you as captain, you know. And I just have to ask you... Do you really think you're cut out for that kind of role just yet?

Yuri: What kind of question is that?

Ian: Just please answer the question. Well, do you?

Yuri: (...)
You're allowed to make a choice here. but the correct answer is obvious considering we have a battleship at our command.

>>Yes
Yuri: Well, I know I've still got a lot to learn. But, yes! Yes, I do! I am captain, after all. I'd better be cut out for it, right?

Ian: I'm afraid I don't follow your logic. I'd like to have my own ship someday too. And that's why I'm learning everything I can right now. And from what I've learned so far, I can tell you that Nia is a far more suitable captain, in terms of experience, ability and leadership besides.

Yuri: Hmph. So what are you trying to say then?

Ian: Nothing,. I just felt I should say something, that's all. The rest is up to you. See you.

Ian Fenevich turns around and walks away.

Yuri: ...

Nia: Huh? What are you doing here, kiddo?

Yuri: Nia...

Nia: Wow. What's eating at you?

Yuri: Do you think that maybe I became a captain too soon?

Nia: Huh? What are you saying?

Yuri: No, never mind. I don't want to know. Forget I asked.

Nia: ...

Yuri's Leadership experience increased by 30! Yuri's Leadership skill increased by 1!
We also learn that Ian is a dick who doesn't particularly care for Yuri.

>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender: Do you know Argun Narevin?

He's asking if we know him personally, not know about him in general. He won't say anything if we do, so we say 'no'.

Bartender: He's a pirate. He uses the planet Medyn as his base, not too far from here. They say he'll use any dirty trick in the book to get what he wants. And he has so many men under him, not even the Central Forces can do much about him.

>>Gorodok
Nia: This is Argun territory. I'm sure they're down a few men after we crushed their base in Lutsk. But still.. I think we should gather a little more information before we go storming in here.

Yuri: You're right. Let's see what we can learn at the tavern.

On entering the bar, we meet a stranger.

Melania: Oh, what a nice surprise! We hardly ever get this many customers way out here on the frontier. It must be the scenery. My name is Melania Sabik, and I'll be your server today. Please make yourselves at home!

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: Ever since that pirate Argun and his crew moved into the area, this planet has dried up like a bone. It's not good for business, I tell you. Not at all. In fact, it's been quite some time since we had this many customers in at once. I promise I'm gonna treat you right!

>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Yuri: Ian, you were born on Gorodok, weren't you? Do you have any family here now?

Ian: No, they're all dead.

Yuri: Oh. Sorry.

Ian: It's not so uncommon, is it? I heard that your and Torlo's parents all passed away, too. Isn't that right? But who'd be able to make it out here if they became sentimental about these things at every turn?

Torlo: Tsk. This guy! You sure as Grus know how to rub people the wrong way, don't ya?!

Yuri: Come on, now, Torlo...

Ian: ...

>>Talk to Melania
Conversation #1
Melania: You guys are really gonna get rid of all the pirates? Wow! Ya know, the boys around here are all too freaked out to even say his name! Honest! You and your crew must be so brave!

Call me crazy, but I have to tell you, I could tell you were different from the moment I first laid eyes on you.

Torlo: Ya could? Heh he heh.

Yuri: R-Really?

Kira: Oh please...
Just the right note of disdain! Melania is laying it on pretty thickly.

Nia: Ah ha ha! She's just flattering you, guys. Get over yourselves already.

Tatiana: Men are so simple.

Yuri: ...
I'm sure if they had sprung for more sprites, he'd be blushing.

Conversation #2
Melania: By the way, there's a meteoroid storm not too far from here. Is your ship going to be all right?

Yuri: A meteroid storm?

Ian: Small particles of debris in space. Like the tides, they're pulled back and forth between the gravitational forces of two planets. Of course, if anybody were to attempt to travel through such an area unprotected, their ships would suffer great damage.

Yuri: Huh. So how do people protect their ships then?

Ian: (sighs) Sometimes it's just shocking how little you know. That's what deflectors are for, Yuri. Does that not bring a bell? Deflectors prevent objects from colliding with your ship. We're talking about the most basic of basic spacefarer knowledge here.
I know what else we can ring like a bell, Ian...

Yuri: Oh.

Torlo: Anyway, without a deflector, we ain't getting through nothin', that's for sure. We oughta hurry up and check out all the module design companies we can!

Yuri: Oh, yeah. I guess you're right.

Nia: Good. That's settled, then. And now it's time to party!
Oh Nia.

Yuri: What?!

For some reason, I find Ian and Yuri to look really feminine in this picture. Ian has frilly handgloves and what I could swear is a maid's dress on, and Yuri has a headband on.

Nia: Ha ha ha! Well, aren't you two just the cutest little things?

Ian: Ack!

Yuri: Come on, Nia. you've had your fun. Let him get changed --

Nia: Grus no! He lost the game, so he's gotta stay that way until the sun comes up, like we said!

Ian: This was not part of my job description.
At least why you're dressed like you are is explained!

The screen fades to black.

Bartender: Wake up, everybody! Oh, Grus! You've got to wake up right now!

Torlo: Huh? What's the matter?
Blinking against the light, Yuri and his party wake up groggily. Following their celebration, they had apparently all fallen asleep.

Nia: Could you please stop yellin'? Hey, what's the matter?

Bartender: A gang of pirates just came in here and.. and... they carried off Melania and Ian!

Nia: What?!

Torlo: Melania I get, but what's with Ian?

Tatiana: the way he was dressed, maybe they thought he was a girl.

Kira: Those people are terrible!

Yuri: Come on! We have to go after them! Hopefully they haven't gotten too far!

A new route has opened up, two ? ? ? areas leading to the planet Medyn. However, without deflectors on all of our ships, we won't be getting there. We can, however, still visit the first ? ? ? area, and do so to rescue our companion. ('friend' is a bit strong where Ian is concerned.)

We get to the outskirts of the meteoroid storm, and Ian is in peril!

Pirate A: heh heh heh heh! Why don't we have ourselves a little fun before we hand her over to Argun?

Pirate B: Okay, but we gotta be quick about it. But that won't be a problem for you! Heh.

Ian: Wait! Wait! You're making a mistake! I'm a guy!

Pirate A: What?!

Pirate B: A guy?!

Ian: ...

Pirate A: Huh. Well, whaddya know?
Whew, safe!

Pirate B: Even better, if ya ask me! Heh heh!
Oh Grus.

Ian: What?!

The ship suddenly shakes, distracting the pirates!

Pirate A: Wh-What was that?!

We're launched into a battle with their ship, a lone Rurik A-class cruiser. No escape, no melee. Oh well, I'm sure we can introduce it (and Ian) to laser justice. One normal volley is enough to disable the ship, and Ian is rescued and allowed to wear his normal clothes again.

Ian: ...

Nia: Ha ha ha! Whew! I'm glad we got to you in time!

Ian: Don't even talk to me. It's all because of you and those stupid clothes that this happened to me at all!

Nia: You could be a little more grateful. If it wasn't for Yuri here and his quick thinking, who knows what would've become of you? I think you at least owe him a "Thank you."

Ian: Hmph. Well, Yuri, having you rescue me was the single most mortifying moment of my life, but I can't say I'm not grateful.

Yuri: Um, you're welcome?

Tatiana: (That was a "thank you," wasn't it?)

Kira: (I think he meant it to be.)

Torlo: AW, whatever... Melania wasn't on the ship! Where the Grus is she?!

Ian: She was on a different ship from the start. They must have brought her to Medyn already.

Yuri: We've got to go after her, then.
I'd agree, Yuri, but we can't get there yet. In fact, trying to do so leads to this scene:

Ian: As you can see, it's tantamount to suicide to try to get through here without a deflector.

Torlo: So this is a meteoroid storm, eh? Looks like Ian's right.

Yuri: Yeah, it looks like it. I guess we'd better turn back.

Melania will have to look after herself for a while - the only way to get a deflector design is solving the planetary dispute.

Infinite Space introduces your first battleship pretty quickly after you get your first cruiser design. Normally speaking, I don't think you're supposed to have the money to take advantage of it until later in the sector. Enhanced encounter rate helps solve that issue handily, even if the constant 30 second battles get on my nerves every now and then.

As an aside, after compiling roughly half of the mythological creature names Wikipedia lists out (by letter), there are 198 options for battleships. At least it'll keep everyone guessing what the next name might be!

[birdy51]

I suppose Ian had it coming, but I kind of felt bad for him.

That said... Why were him and Yuri in dresses again?

[Hanzoku]

It's not explicitly stated, but from what Nia is saying, they were all partying, Ian and Yuri (foolishly) made some sort of bet with Nia and lost, requiring Ian to dress up as a maid, and Yuri to wear a headband.

[kaian-a-coel]

I'm pretty sure yuri is wearing a dress as well in that picture. I mean, it's definitively not his usual gear.

[Hanzoku]

Looking more closely, you're probably right. I guess we're lucky they didn't kidnap Yuri in the bargain, though Nia would have been well capable of heading the rescue mission as well.

[Hanzoku]

Gen's Gambit
New Characters:  Fomich, Musin
New Ships:  Derzky Loc (DD), Orfey Loc (DD)
New Equipment: Elgavan Bridge Lv 3, Fire Control Room Lv 3, Radar Room Lv 3, Engine Room Lv 2, War Room Lv 1, Deflector Lv 1, Security Room Lv 2, Thruster Control Room Lv 1, Analysis Room Lv 1

Spoiler: Prelude to War (click to show/hide)

Having rescued Ian, we return to Gorodok to rest, refit, and get Ian back into his Assistant Operator position. Once we're done getting the ships back into shape, we head down to talk to the bartender about Melania's fate.

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: Please, please help Melania!
As soon as we can, we will.

We have one more planet to visit before we go and collect Gen - Alatyr, Vladykin's homeworld and one of the feuding planets.

On arriving, we can see that the planet is definitely getting its fleet mobilized to lay claim to the disputed resources. Without intervention, the coming war could get pretty big.

Kira: Wow, look at all these ships!

Nia: Well, they're right in the middle of a dispute. It's no shocker they'd mobilize this many. I'll bet Driutesk has even more than this.

Kira: I can't even imagine a war with this many ships. That's a frightening thought.

I hope we can do something before it comes to that.

Nia: Not a fan of war, kid?

I don't really know much about it, but I'm not opposed to the idea of war in general.
Given the number of pirates we've annihilated, I'd be surprised if you were.

I'm sure there are times it might be necessary to fight... But I think that if it can be avoided, it probably should be.

Nia: Yeah. I think you're probably right, kiddo.

We head down to the planet's surface, but only a tavern is available to us right now.

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: I can't believe those Driutesk bastards would cross the boundary line and not expect us to do anything about it! I'll bet they've got more dirty tricks up their sleeves, too.



The ? ? ? sector near Alatyr is a wash, so we start the long trek back to Nezhatin, where we last encountered Gen.

Once there, we visit the tavern to have a chat with the old man.

>>Talk to Gen Nadiy.
Excuse me, but... Is your, um, name Gennadiy Alabyshev by any chance?

Gen: Well, well! yes, that is indeed my name but from where did you learn it?

Well...

The screen fades to black while Yuri recaps the situation for Gen.

Gen: Ah. I thought something like this would happen one day over the resource planets of the Buzhsk Star System. And I suppose the Central Elgavan Forces have their hands tied, don't they?

We've got to do something before it turns into a full-blown war! Will you help us?

Gen: Hm... Well, I suppose I can hardly sit idly by when such an entreaty is brought to me by such an earnest youth. I will accompany you and help you.

You will?! Oh, thank you, sir!

Gen: But I do have certain conditions. I have thrown off my old tie and am traveling unfettered under the name of "Gen Nadiy." You must understand that I will have nothing to do with the Elgavan military.

Yes, sir.

Gen: Fine, then. Well, it has been ten years, but it looks like I will be returning to Central Elgava. Are you ready, Alik?

Alik: Y-Y-Yes, Master Gen.

With Gen and Alik aboard, we turn around and make the long trek back to Central Elgava. After passing through the void gate, Gen wants to talk to Yuri.

Gen: Can I have a word with you, my boy?

Of course. Is everything all right?

Gen: We've come up with a plan. We need you to take us to Deviagorosk now.

A plan? That's great! All right. Deviagorosk it is, then.

Deviagorosk is now available, linked to Alatyr. We start the long trek from the Void Gate to Deviagorosk, swatting aside a stream of pirates along the way. While annoying, they have easily refilled our currency reserves.

Reaching our destination, Gen chats with us briefly.

Gen: Very good. Alik and I will disembark here. We have some business to attend to on this planet, you see.

Huh? But what about the dispute?

Gen: You'll see, you'll see. Now, no matter what happens, I don't want you to go meddling with the Alatyr or Driutesk forces, do you understand me? You can come back here and fetch us after some time has passed.

Okay...
The helpful thing with plans Gen, is sharing them, so you don't seem like you've gone off your rocker in our old age.

Gen Nadiy and Alik Kovalenko turn and walk away.

We visit the bar before we head off.

>>Talk to the Bartender.
Bartender: The Driutesk forces are going all-out these days to build up their military might. If you have your own ship, you could try joining up with them too, if you want. I hear they're paying a pretty hefty bonus to new recruits with their own ships!

We head back to Nerekhta, and from there to Zarub, spending our time constructively by swatting pirates by the handful for their loot.

Between Nerekhta and Zarub, a scene plays out.

Kira: Novgorod Pirate ship approaching at twelve o'clock.

Torlo: Aw, it's just one destroyer. It's no biggie. I'm sure we'll have it cleared up in no time!

Kira: Wait a minute. Something's odd here.

Destroyer Captain: Hold your fire. We don't have any beef with you. I repeat. Hold your fire!

Torlo: Huh? What's up with that?
Maybe they decided to sue for peace before we wipe them all out?

I have no idea. Kira, patch me through. I want to talk to them.

Kira: Roger.

This is Yuri, captain of the Fomorian. You're a Novgorod Pirate ship without hostile intentions? Explain yourself. Do you read me?

Destroyer Captain: Yeah, we read ya. We already said good-bye to the pirating business! Now we're on our way to join up with the Driutesk forces. Ya get me?

Torlo: The Driutesk forces, eh?

All right. I understand your situation. And I don't see any reason for us to fight, etiher.

Destroyer Captain: Roger. hey, why don't ya come join up with Driutesk yourself? If you got your own ship, you won't believe the bonus they're givin' out just for signing up!

Yeah, maybe. I'll think about it. Safe travels to you.

Destroyer Captain: Yeah, right back at ya.

The ex-pirate destroyer makes a quick escape before we change our mind about laser justice.

Nia: Look like Driutesk is doing just about anything it can right now to build itself up. And once the balance of power tips in its favor... It's not gonna be a pretty sight!

Yeah, I think you're right.

With that, we both go on our way, and an event opens up in the tavern on Nerekhta. We're right next door, so we head back to there.

When we head inside the tavern, Kira spots something.

Kira: Yuri, look!

Huh?

Some rough-looking men group together around the monitor screen in a corner of the tavern.

Voice from the Monitor: This is a message to all brave spacefarers everywhere. The mighty Driutesk Forces are currently looking for courageous new recruits who will help us fight in our battle for justice. If you are selected, all living expenses will of course be covered for you.

In addition, you will receive a Dangerous Duty Bonus, as well as a Travel Allowance. We're looking for brave, young, strong, healthy men and women just like you! So call the Driutesk Recruiting Office today!

Join Driutesk! When you're ready, we're waiting for you!

...

Kira: ...

Tatiana: Wow, they're really reaching to get anyone they can to join, aren't they?

Torlo: Grus! if this keeps up, the Driutesk side is just gonna get stronger and stronger! I can't take it anymore! Let's go find that Gen guy and get him movin' on this!
For once, I agree with Torlo. Driutesk is massively out-recruiting Alatyr, and things will get ugly soon.

We head back to Deviagorsk to find out what the Grus Gen has been busy with.

Spoiler: Gen Reveals his Plan (click to show/hide)

At Deviagorsk, we find Gen (predictably enough for a spacer) at the tavern.

>>Talk to Gen Nadiy.
Conversation#1
Gen: Ah! I'm over here.

Torlo: This is no time to be relaxin' and havin' a drink, old man! The Driutesk forces are rampin' up a huge army as we speak!

Gen: Exactly according to plan. "When too much food is cooked in the pot, the pot will crack."
Nicely cryptic, old-timer.

Torlo: Huuuh?!

What do you mean by that, sir?

Gen: Alik and I have used every means possible to spread the rumor that the Driutesk Forces are recruiting soldiers. thanks to our efforts, pirates and ruffians of every description have flowed into Driutesk in droves. And as a result, there has been a constant string of disturbances and even looting within the forces.

Nia: Yeah, I can just imagine what ah ard time they must be havin' with the whole "military discipline" thing! Heh.

Gen: yes, now that the Driutesk Forces have taken these ruffians on as allies, they have their hands full keeping them in check. And if it gets so bad that Driutesk needs outside help to keep them under control...

Oh, now I get it! The Central Elgavan FOrces will have no choice but to step in, right?

Gen: Precisely.

Nia: A-ha! Very clever!

Gen: Heh heh. This wasn't my idea, actually. Alik came up with the plan.

Nia: Really? Alik?

Alik: (fidgets)
I can imagine he's blushing bright red with someone dressed like Nia paying attention to him.

Gen: As young as he is, Alik has done an exceptional job at taking in everything I have to teach him. This b oy is going to be a tactician famed throughout the galaxies one day!

Nia: Alik, huh? Well, whaddya know?

Alik: (fidgets)

Conversation #2
Gen: Now then. Shall we go?

Go? Go where?

Gen: Go to provoke the ruffian element of the Driutesk forces into battle, of course. If it can be made to look like these ruffians are attacking private citizens, then the Central Elgavan Forces will have no choice but to get involved. That is our strategy.

Okay. I get it now.

Gen: The Driutesk forces are moving from their home planet towards the Buzhsk Star System as we speak. You must target only the Novgorod Pirate ships among them. A Driutesk regular forces ship will be leading each fleet as the flagship. Be very, very certain you do not attack or harm this Driutesk lead ship in any way. Have you got that, my boy?
I'm going to check, but I think it's an instant game over if you do.

Yes, sir.

Gen: Very good. Alik and I will come along and do anything we can to help.

Gen Nadiy and Alik Kovalenko have decided to accompany your crew! Gen Nadiy can now be used as a crew member!

Before we go to provoke some pirates, we go get Gen set up in a post.

Gen, as fits his reputation, is an absolute monster skills wise. He's far and away the best Leader we have with 31 in his leadership skill, and comes with three special skills

Cool & Calm Lv 4 - Operator skill, increases gauge speed.
AS Genius Lv 2 - Artillery skill, increases anti-ship damage
Formation Foe Lv 5 - Removes Enemy Formation bonus (can hit back rows.) With level 5, there's no penalty associated, so we can now fire on the most important targets first if we use this ability.

Gen gets to take the position of 1st Officer to take advantage of Formation Foe, and Kira gratefully gives up the trying leadership position (she's actually our worst person in Leadership).

Taking advantage of her Amateur Chef special skill, we assign her as Head Chef, making travel fatigue a bit easier.

Some new areas open up - Driutesk is right next to Deviagorsk, explaining why Gen wanted to be there. An ? ? ? area has opened up between Driutesk and Alatyr, and leading off of the ? ? ? area is the disputed Buzhsk system.
Reaching Driutesk, we run into a patrol of a Driutesk local Derzky-class destroyer shepherding two corvettes. Easy pickings. For amusement, I whack the destroyer first, and it indeed causes an instant game over.

Leaving the destroyer alone, we pop the two corvettes and net a 'win'. After doing so, we're allowed to dock, so I check on the bar.

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender:  They say the Driutesk government deployed fleets to the Buzhsk Star System. But don't they know the nation will suffer if all its workers get sent over there? And now I hear they're planning on sending even more troops!

To be honest, us regular folk are getting sick and tired of this "dispute."

Well, that gives us a further target - we head towards Buzhsk to continue needling the pirates. At the ? ? ? sector, we run across another destroyer and two corvettes and wipe out the smaller ships once again. After finishing the battle, a cutscene takes place at the Central Elgavan Forces Headquarters.

Novikov: You sent for me, Defense Minister Fomich, sir?

Fomich: Ah, Captain. Yes. I'm sending your 117th Fleet to the Buzhsk Star System. Prepare to have it ship out.

Novikov: We don't have to worry about infringing upon their right of self-government, sir?

Fomich: our objective is to bring a certain element of the Driutesk forces under control, only. We are not interfering with the dispute. If either side chooses to view the operating as a threat of further action from Central, well, so be it.

Novikov: ...

Fomich: That will be all. Get moving, man!

Novikov: Y-Yes, sir!

With that, it fades out, and we go to Buzhsk to finish riling the pirates up. This time the two pirate ships are a corvette and a destroyer, but it's not like it'll save them.  Once the two ships explode in satisfying fashion, Yuri chats with Gen.

Whew. Do you think the Central Forces are getting ready to move yet?

Kira: Yuri, there's a large number of ships approaching! It's--
Yes.

Nia: So they're finally here, huh?

Fomich: To the nations of Alatyr and Driutesk, please hold your fire. This is Rudak Fomich, Defense Minister of the Interplanetary Union of Elgava. The purpose of our fleet's presence is only to bring a certain unruly element of the Driutesk Forces under control.

All other ships of both nations, please withdraw from this sector immediately. I repeat. All other ships--

As the huge fleet moves in, Alatyr and Driutesk do indeed view the operation as a threat of further action from the Central Elgavan Forces, and immediately agree to mediation. The result is the signing of a second Buzhsk Star System division agreement by the two nations.

And so the dispute is solved peaceably, without harm to either nation.
Only losers? A lot of pirates who get wiped out by us or the CEF.

Nia: Whew! Looks like that worked out all right.

Gen: Yes. You did a fine job, Yuri.

I didn't do that much.

Gen: You're too modest. I do look forward to seeing what you'll become one day. And as a reward, allow me to teach you a skill. I'm sure it will help you in your journey.

Yuri was taught the Special Skill, "Final Roar Lv. 1"!
Final Roar is basically Barrage with an increased chance to crit on each hit. It's nice, but not amazing as it requires more energy than Barrage does.

With the dispute settled, we go to rest up at Alatyr and encounter a pleasant surprise - with Alatyr no longer on war footing, the Module design company is open for business again.

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender:  Did you know that Commander Vladykin of the Central Elgavan Forces was originally from this planet? Now that the dispute is over, I'll bet that guy feels pretty relieved. Yes indeedy!

Spoiler: Modules, Modules Everywhere (click to show/hide)

We visit the Module company and purchase a host of new modules.

xxx
oox - Elgavan Bridge Lv3 - Gause Speed +4, CAPT Bonus +2
oox

xox
xox - Fire Control Room Lv 3-  AS ACC +3, AA Acc +3
oox

xox
xox - Radar Room Lv 3 - Attack Range +3700
xoo

xxx
ooo - Engine Room Lv 2 - Cruise Speed +14, Battle Speed +14
xxx

xox
xox - War Room Lv 1 - Fleet Bonus +1, CAPT Bonus +2
ooo

xox
xox - Deflector Lv 1 - Armor +10
xoo

I'm pretty sure the objects that offer Captain bonuses are only necessary on the flagship, but all of these are nice upgrades. The Deflectors will need to be installed on every ship in the fleet before we go to Medyn - any ship that doesn't have them will be nearly destroyed, and there's a series of boss battles right after that meteoroid storm.

But before the overhaul, we have a few extra modules to pick up.  The first stop in doing so is Ostrog.

A module company has opened up here as well, and we pick up two new designs as well.

xxx
xox - Security Room Lv2 - Livability +4, Melee +5
xox

xox
xox - Thruster Control Room Lv 1 - Mobility +10
xoo

But the real prize is through the Tavern.

>>Talk to the Bartender about a job.
Bartender: You want a job, huh? Well, I do have this request right here... I need someone to go and bring back a certain employee of the National Science Research lab on Alatyr. Can you do that? The job pays 200 G.

>>Yes.

Bartender: The employee's name is Nadja Musin. She's a women in her late twenties, pretty easy on the eyes. My clients says you can entice her to come if you give her this.

You get a rare metal fragment!

Bartender: All right. Good luck, now!

Back on Alatyr, a Science Lab has opened up.

Musin: So the xenotide isolate rate is thirty-four percent, is it? Hm. That won't be enough to restore the mephormium.

Inside the lab, a serious-looking woman works feverishly, surrounded by enormous stacks of technical-looking documents.

Excuse me.

Musin: The sublimation of the mephormium was... let's see... over 5,000 degrees. but that's not going to help in this case.

Kira: Um, excuse us!

Musin: In order to refine the crystallization of the vigconia... No, this value is still lacking.

Torlo: Hello?! You've got visitors, lady!
She really is lost in her own world.

Musin: Hm?! What is the meaning of this? Can't you see for yourselves? I'm extremely busy right now.

yes, we're very sorry to bother you. I'm Yuri, captain of the Fomorian. We were asked to transport you to Ostrog. They said you'd come with us if we showed you this.

Yuri hands the rare metal fragment the bartender gave him to Nadja Musin.

Musin: Hmph. Does someone really think I can be bought with this pitiful little hunk of rock? Thanks, but no thanks.

Torlo: Now wait just one minute! If you don't come, we don't get paid! Are you gonna come, or are we gonna have to make you?
Kidnapping isn't really my thing, Torlo.

Musin: (sighs) Are you sure this is legitimate? How do I know you aren't going to just abduct me or something?

Torlo: They just told us to come get you and bring you back, that's all.

Musin: ... All right, fine. Go find me some benocyte, then.

Huh?

Musin: You'll find it in the Buzhsk Star System. It's a rare superconductor metal. It's known to give off a magnetic field when in proximity to laser light. I find myself suddenly needing it for the research I'm conducting now, but my staff and I are too busy to go get it ourselves.

Yeah, uh, sure. I guess we could do that for you.

Torlo: So if we get this b eno, uh, whatever rock thing for you, you're gonna come quietly with us, right?

Musin: Yes, I suppose I could, as long as it doesn't take too long.

Um, how exactly do we get this benocyte?

Musin: When you get to the Buzhsk Star System Sector, fire off a laser cannon. Then just use this detector probe to find minerals that give off a magnetic field. Simple, right?

You got a small detector probe!

Musin: That probe also measures heat and radiation as well, so make sure you're looking at the correct value.
We have a probe and more than enough lasers. Should be easy enough!

All right. But you have to promise to come with us if we get some benocyte for you.

Musin: Yes, yes. You have my word. Now go!

And then we're shooed out the door. Once we reach Buzhsk, Kira calls us over.

Kira: Yuri, we've reached the Buzhsk Star System.

Okay, face the ship dead ahead and fire the laser cannon!

The screen fades out while the laser fires.

Kira: The laser cannon energy readings have dissipated.

Good. It's time to suit up and collect some benocyte outside the ship. Torlo, you suit up, too.

Torlo: I thought you'd never ask!

Outside the ship, the two look around

Torlo: Ah, the probe's reacting to somethin'.

(Okay now, which value was I supposed to read here?}
Assuming you haven't left the game alone for a while and that your short-term memory is good, you'll remember she wants the mineral that reacts magnetically.

I'm picking up a a magnetic field reading. I wonder if this is the right mineral.

You got a mineral!
Pick the wrong one and you get to come back and try again.

Back on Alatyr, we rush to the lab, mineral in hand.

Nadja, here's that benocyte you wanted.

Musin: Oh, really? Let me have a look.Yes, yes. It looks like you found benocyte all right. Well, a promise is a promise. Take me away. I can think of it as a little vacation. Wait a minute. Where are we going again?

Ostrog. It's in the Central Sector. It shouldn't take long.

Musin: All right, fine. I got the benocyte I needed, and even with this lost time, I should still make my deadline. Let's go.

Back to Ostrog, we visit the tavern, only to be greeted with a surprise.

Just as the party enters the tavern, a maser blaster goes off, barely missing Yuri's nose!

What the Grus?!

Musin: Hey!

? ? ? : Aw, crap!

The man frantically takes aim again, pointing the b laster directly at Nadja Musin this time.

Torlo: Hmph!

Torlo backhands the fool.

Man: Oof!

Torlo: Raaagh!

Torlo goes berserk!

Man: Gah!

Thanks to Torlo Adkin's brave and quick action, the shooter is subdued in a flash.
And with only three broken limbs!

Man: Oh, Grus!
The pain....

Torlo: Hmph. It's a good thing this guy's a lousy marksman.

Musin: ... This school ID... You're a Driutesk National University student, aren't you?

Man: Son of a--! If it wasn't for you, all those rare metals... All that benocyte... would belong to our nation!
I think you need to blame Yuri for that one...

Musin: ... (sighs) I wish I could say scientific research has nothing to do with politics. But I know in my heart it isn't true.

Man: ...

Musin: ... Hey, kid.

Who, me?

Musin: What do you think about letting me stay on your ship for a while? I really don't want to stop doing my current line of research. But who knows how many crazy people like this are out there waiting for me? I need to have a place where I can just relax and concentrate on my work.

Of course, I don't expect you to put me up for free or anything like that. I'll use whatever skills I have to help out your crew. What do you say?

Hm...
You can say no, but why would you?

>>All right. Sure.

Musin: Well! You're more reasonable then I thought. I'm sure we'll get along just fine, Captain.

Nadja Musin joined your crew!

Bartender: Uh, excuse me...

The bartender timidly addresses the party.

Oh, hey, we're really sorry! We really messed up your tavern, didn't we?

Bartender: Oh, that's quite all right! I'm the one who should apologize, giving you that job and putting you all in so much danger! I really had no idea that the client was gonna pull something crazy like that!

I'll pay you double the fee for this job. So no hard feelings, okay? And please, don't tell anybody what happened here!
Please don't sic Torlo on me...

You got 400 G!

And one last time back to the lab on Alatyr.

The party gets ready to move some of Nadja Musin's research materials and equipment onto the ship.

Musin: All right, let's do this quickly, people. You, men! Don't just stand there! Start packing these materials into boxes!

We're on it!

Musin: Hey, you! How long is it going to take you to move that?!

Ian: I-I'm not really cut out for manual labor!

Musin: Don't talk. Just move!

Ian: Yikes! I'm moving. I'm moving.

The screen fades to black as everyone helps.

(panting)

Ian: Ow. My poor back...

Musin: Great. Thank you, guys. Now I can finally get down to doing some real research on the ship! Oh, by the way, Captain. I sure could use one of these when you get the chance.

Nadja hands Yuri module blueprints for a research facility.

You got blueprints for an Analysis Room 1 module!

xox
xox - Analysis Room Lv 1 - Science Experience +4
oox This one is explainable, at least. Increases the rate of gaining ship bonuses.

So all in all, we got paid 400 G. and a new character to pick up this module. I prefer this way of buying modules!

With all the new modules, we go ahead and overhaul all of our ships. Each ship needs a Deflector installed for the next section.

After remodeling, we manage to fit everything but the thruster control room into the Fomorian, but the smaller Asi and Anubis don't fare as well, losing out on modules I wish I could have fit into their designs.

Deflectors ready, we're ready to hit the pirates and rescue their hostage.

It was close-run, but Birds of Prey edge out the other two contenders for the carrier ship naming scheme. It'll be a little while until we get one though - while we get our first design in this chapter still, I won't build one until we also get fighter designs, which is sometime in the middle of next chapter.

A note on fleet composition: It'll be a long time before we gain the ability to use a fourth and fifth ship. I'd like to show off more of the ship designs then just rolling around with a fleet of battleships and carriers, which was my tactic in my first game. (And wildly successful. There's no reason to use smaller ships if you can afford larger, sadly.)

That aside, here are my plans:

3-ship limit:
1 battleship (command ship)
1 carrier
1 destroyer/cruiser (type depends on the new design having higher stats.)

4-ship limit:
1 battleship (command ship)
1 carrier
1 cruiser
1 destroyer

5-ship limit
2 battleships (command ship)
1 carrier
1 cruiser
1 destroyer

If cruiser and destroyer designs stop appearing, they'll eventually be phased out for a third battleship and second carrier.