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Total Members Voted: 10

[Hanzoku]

Honestly? I think someone heard our merry band of bloodthirsty pirates pile into the building (these are some big buildings to have fights with 2000+ people involved) and dropped their currency card to distract us while they ran for it. It seems to work, at least.

[Itnetlolor]

Honestly? I think someone heard our merry band of bloodthirsty pirates pile into the building (these are some big buildings to have fights with 2000+ people involved) and dropped their currency card to distract us while they ran for it. It seems to work, at least.

That, or some fools in their panic dropped their wallet as they were hitting the high road knowing that Yuri the Reaver was coming. Good luck getting a fare offworld without your money.

[MarcAFK]

Posting to thank you for continuing this, I stopped paying attention for a while after the last hiatus, but have just caught up.

[Hanzoku]

No problem, and I'm glad you're enjoying it! I just had to take a little while to get my head wrapped around writing and posting a LP again - but it's always a bit harder to pick up something after you've put it down for a while.

[Knight Otu]

Honestly? I think someone heard our merry band of bloodthirsty pirates pile into the building (these are some big buildings to have fights with 2000+ people involved) and dropped their currency card to distract us while they ran for it. It seems to work, at least.

Heh. There was one update where it seemed to me that the currency cards were dropped as a deliberate trail that would lead straight into a trap at first, but that didn't seem to happen.

[Neonivek]

How do people in this universe keep losing their currency cards? Seems a normal person could make a decent living just from picking up the money on the streets. 

I played one of the Deus Ex games and basically you do exactly that. You earn far more money finding loose change then you do at your actual job that to my knowledge never pays you during the game's runtime.

[Itnetlolor]

How do people in this universe keep losing their currency cards? Seems a normal person could make a decent living just from picking up the money on the streets. 

I played one of the Deus Ex games and basically you do exactly that. You earn far more money finding loose change then you do at your actual job that to my knowledge never pays you during the game's runtime.

You can also make a fortune in Chrono Trigger early on by Shelter-Farming in 600AD and selling the excess at a market, and make more money early-game that way than from XP farming the local wildlife and collecting from that. Excellent for low-level challenges.

EDIT:
Nevermind, I did a rapid-play to test my theory out. It's far too impractical; unless you're doing a low-level run, and need good equipment to stay alive down the line. CAUTION: Tedious as hell.

A standard Guardia Forest 600AD battle yielded 80GP per-fight on average (and quicker GP gain), a shelter (for free if you know where to look) sells for 75GP, minus XP.

[Hanzoku]

Planning the Endgame
New Characters: Ursula, Merril, Etoso
New Ships:
New Fighters:

Spoiler: Yuri Is Galactically Famous (click to show/hide)

Coyle: Your Highness, a reinforcement fleet has just arrived from our home system.

Cico: Man, that was fast! So, who’s in charge?

Coyle: If you would, this way, please.
Coyle invites the new admiral in

Ursula: Rear Admiral Ursula Macklin, Eleventh Expeditionary Fleet, reporting for duty. I am delighted to see you doing so well after these many years, Your Highness.

Merril: Ensign Miles Merril at your service, Your Highness.

Cico: Well well, so old Macklin sent over his one and only daughter, did he? Guess he figured out how important this next operation’s gonna be.

Ursula: Yes, Your Highness. I heard we’ll be going up against the one called Yuri.
It’s nice we don’t stay nameless opposition to the bad guys. They know exactly who screws things up for them, at least.

Cico: That’s right. We can’t let him screw up what we’ve done so far or get in the way of our future plans.

Ursula: The emperor himself is of the same mind. However…

Cico: Go on, spit it out.

Ursula: Yes, well, I don’t understand how one man could warrant so much attention. I heard he fled when faced with a small fleet led by you, Your Highness. Surely such an opponent couldn’t--
Cico: Heh heh! I get what you’re saying, but it’s the ones that run away right off the bat that you gotta watch out for. That guy’s learned a lot. Heh heh heh! I mean, he used to be the type who’d just rush right into danger.

Ursula: …

Cico: Trust me, I know. Over the past ten years, he’s been beefin’ up his military might to get ready for this day.
Not really, he’s more been hanging out in prison. Good Grus, if Yuri had been adventuring for the past ten years, you’d come through the portal straight into an armada of Corsair knock offs.

Ursula: …

Cico: That’s what we’re up against, people. I’m gonna do what I should’ve done ten years ago. That’s also why I called you here, Rear Admiral Eremon.

Eremon: Yes, Your Highness.
Well, he’s cleaned up.

With that, the scene shifts back to us, and we make planetfall on Mindesfelde to catch up with our friends.

>>Mindesfelde
>>Tavern
>>Talk to your friends
Conversation #1
Kira: Yuri, strong drinks are bad for your health. We still have a long road ahead of us, so you’ve got take care of yourself.

Yuri: You’re right, Kira. I’m sorry for worrying you like that. I’ll try to take it easy.
Yuri will limit his intake to one liter of vodka per day, in place of two!

Conversation #2
Torlo: We got Zenito and Enemonzo on our side now, so Libertas should be a cinch.

Tatiana: I wish it were that easy. Unfortunately, Zanetti got away.

Alik: A-And our opponent is still stronger than our side, at least militarily.

Torlo: That sucks! And here I was thinkin’ that the worst was already over.
This is the first we heard of the operation we didn’t assist. They achieved most of their objectives, at least.

We make our way to Rentinen next, to check in at headquarters and pick up our new mission.

>>Rentinen
As we disembark at the spaceport, a mob scene develops.

Girl: Aaaaah! Can I have your autograph?!
Girl #2: It’s Lord Roth! It’s Lord Roth!

Yuri: What the…?!

The excited screams and cries of a mob of frantic young women assault Yuri and company’s ears as they step off their ship. Just as Yuri expects, he finds that it is Lord Roth, once again surrounded by a mob of attractive, albeit hysterical, women.

Roth: Oh, Yuri! Did you just get back?

Yuri: Lord Roth, I didn’t know you were supposed to be back already!

Roth: Don’t worry. I left adequate forces to deal with Libertas’ fleet. Besides, they don’t seem to have the will to fight. Both sides are just staring each other down right now. It’s ever so boring.

One woman, who has been patiently watching the two men speak, timidly interrupts.

Girl: Excuse me. You wouldn’t happen to be the captain known as Yuri, would you?

Yuri: I am, but--
Girl: Omigod!

The mob of young women once again bursts into a chorus of excited screams, cries and giggles.
Oh dear, Yuri has achieved his own fan club. Roth and Yuri together might cause aneurysms among these fangirls.

Girl: It really is Yuri! Oh, he’s so dreamy! Please! Can I have your autograph?!
Girl #2: Shake my hand! Oh, please! Please, shake my hand!

Yuri: Hey, ow! Let go! Stop pulling like that!
I’ve cut people for less!

Roth: Ah ha ha ha ha! Looks like you’ve gotten a bit famous too, Yuri! Go on, now sign a few autographs for the nice ladies!

Yuri: I’m not really into stuff like that. Besides…

Yuri looks over at his sister with a troubled, if not vaguely guilty, look on his face.

Kira: What?

Yuri: Oh, no, it’s just, even if you said it was all right, you know, I, uh--
This is veering into creepy territory.
Kira: Well, I wouldn’t say it’s okay, so…

While Kira does not show it outwardly, Yuri can tell she is steaming mad by the tone of her reply. In response, Yuri makes a hasty escape, leaving Lord Roth and the screaming mob behind.

Safely planet-side, we make our way to the Alpha Quadrant Headquarters

>>Alpha Quadrant Headquarters
Regeinlandic officers are already seated at Headquarters on Rentinen, and have been waiting for Yuri and company to arrive. Among the officers, Yuri notices Norbert Weimar from the Interplanetary Assembly.

Sankt: Well done, Yuri! Captain Baum has updated me on your recent efforts. Your skill in conquering Zenito with minimal loss of friendly forces is quite impressive.

Yuri: It looks like your operating went well, too.

Sankt: Indeed, it has. We’ve accepted Enemonzo’s complete and unconditional surrender. Now Libertas no longer has any significant allies among the nations of the LMC.

Yuri: What’s the situation like in the Galactic Federation?

Weimar: Allow me to explain. With the surrender of Enemonzo and Zenito, the balance of power has overwhelmingly shifted in our favor. As a result, many nations that had been uncommitted have finally begun voicing their support for the Interplanetary Assembly. And more and more are coming around each day. Now it’s time to seize this opportunity and do what the Federation should have done long ago: Allow the nations of the Interplanetary Assembly to work toward formulating a response against the Lugovalos threat.

Yuri sits down, and we join the strategy meeting.

>>Join the strategy meeting.
Yuri: Assembly Member Weimar, what do you think your chances are of bringing about a political solution?

Weimar: Frankly speaking, zero. After all, military force has always been a louder voice than cries for peace. Then there’s Orders, a veritable hotbed of hardliners. They still have more than enough military might to make things difficult. If push comes to shove, they could very well dispatch a fleet over Merylgild to pressure the Assembly.

Yuri: Hm…

Roth: So you’re saying we just have to smash Orders’ fleet to bits, is that it? That shouldn’t be all that difficult.

Weimar: In theory, yes, but it’s far more complex than you might think. You see, once you attack Orders, you’re basically attacking Libertas itself. And I need not remind you that Libertas controls one-third of the military vessels under Federation command.

Roth: Yes, but that’s assuming they can live up to their potential.

Weimar: What do you mean?

Roth: Nele, would you do the honors?

Baecker: Okay, allow me to explain. Now, this is only based on my impression from when our Royal Fleet confronted the Libertasian fleet in the Hiwarz Sector, but it appears as if some elements within Libertas itself are taking a watch-and-wait attitude to the events we’ve set in motion. I say this because during the two-month period we faced their fleet, they only went on the offensive twice. Even then, it only amounted to a smash skirmish and they quickly withdrew. That’s why I think it’s premature to assume they all sympathize with and are ready to die for Orders.

Weimar: yes, I see what you mean.

Sankt: The official policy has been decided upon. We are to invade Libertas and crush the Orders fleet!

A commotion arises from among the officers gathered in the War Room as the significance of this moment hits them. For the first time in the nearly 500 years that Libertas has dominated the Federation, the winds of change are in the air.

Weimar: That may be our only choice.

Sankt: Indeed. But this battle must not ignite into an all-out war with Libertas. Assembly Member Weimar, I regret having to ask you to bear such a burden, but we’re counting on you for damage control.

Weimar: I know. I will stake my honor as a career politician on extinguishing the flames of war that will no doubt arise.

Sankt: Excellent. Now it’s time for our top military officials to formulate a strategic plan for achieving our goal. I would like to rest of you to stand by off planet until further notice. You are dismissed!
I guess we’re cooling our heels in orbit than.

Luitger Sankt ends the meeting, and immediately his officers get up and leave with excited looks on their faces.

Outside, Roth stops Yuri for a moment.

Roth: Yuri, it’s turning out just like you said.

Yuri: What do you mean?

Roth: You know, the unification of the LMC? Let’s get together over drinks some time. Meet me over at the Royal Fleet’s headquarters.

Yuri: Sure, sounds good.

Spoiler: Planning For the Future (click to show/hide)

With nothing better to do, we travel towards Gunnitz first to check in on our friends in Space Armored Fleet.

>>Gunnitz
>>General Headquarters

As soon as Yuri and company arrive at Space Armored Fleet Headquarters, they are quickly ushered into Dietrich Schneizer’s office. Inside, they find the commander and an odd-looking man standing there.

Etoso: …

Franny: Whoa! A Zenitonian! What’s this guy doing here?

Dietrich: Allow me to introduce you. This is Captain Etoso, an officer in the Zenitonian Fleet.

Yuri: A Zenitonian officer, huh?

Etoso: Captain Abrahamo Etoso, Zenitonian Seventh Fleet. General Rubriko was my commanding officer. Though you were my enemy in battle, Captain, your amazing battle skills have earned my sincerest respect.

Yuri: Thank you, Captain Etoso. But what brings you so far from home? It’s unusual to find a Zenitonian all the way out here.

Dietrich: He has come to offer his services in our military force as proof of Zenito’s goodwill towards us.

Yuri: You mean he wants to join the Regeinlandic military?

Dietrich: Yes, and in that case he would hold the rank of visiting officer.

Gen: So what you really mean is that he will be your hostage.

Dietrich: That’s not how I--

Upon hearing Gen Nadiy’s frank assessment, Dietrich Schneizer hastily turns to look back at Abrahamo Etoso. However, Captain Etoso’s expression does not change one bit as he responds.

Etoso: Please, Commander, do not let it concern you. I understand how the lack of information on the Zenitonian people would lead to suspicions against us. If my presence here as a hostage mitigates such mistrust, then it is the logical thing to do.

Dietrich: I’m sorry about this, Captain Etoso. Well, this is the situation as it stands. Do you think we should accept his proposal?

We’re given a choice. If we accept him, we gain Etoso as a character, but he’s an instant passenger, as his only special skill is AA Genius Lv 3. We don’t even have anti-air guns equipped. Turning his offer down, and we gain access to two fighter blueprints in the next chapter.

Yuri: You won’t need any hostages.

Dietrich: Are you sure about that?

Gen: After seeing the true nature of the Zenitonian people, I’d say there is nothing to worry about. Especially now, after Rubriko’s defeat.

Yuri: I agree.

Etoso: It appears you all have come to understand the Zenitonian people, and for that, I must thank you.

Yuri: Well, it’s kind of hard not to learn about a people after you’ve personally fought against them.

Hearing Yuri’s statement, Abrahamo Etoso cracks the first grin anyone in the room has seen him make.

Etoso: Yes, yes, I think I now have a slightly better understanding of how a warlike race such as yours feels.

Franny: I don’t think that’s exactly what Yuri was getting at, but whatever.

Dietrich: I understand perfectly, Captain, and I will report this new turn of events to my superiors. I would like our guest, Captain Etoso, to travel our nation far and wide, and interact with our people before he returns home.

Abrahamo Etoso bows his head deeply in response to Dietrich Schneizer.

With that, we depart and continue onwards towards Ambach. A short while later, Kira reports a sighting on the sensors.

Kira: Yuri, we have a ship approaching us from behind.

Yuri: Is it a Regeinlandic ship?

Kira: No, it’s, let’s see…

Well, long time, no see Celina.

Celina: There you are, Yuri.

Yuri: Celina!

Celina: Seems you’ve made quite a name for yourself around here, kid. Lucky for me, that made it a lot easier to find you.

Kira: Celina, I’m so glad you were able to make it here okay!

Celina: Yeah, but I had some pretty close calls along the way. If I’d waited any longer, I might never have been able to get through that damned gate.

Semias: Why is that?

Celina: It’s those Lugovalians. Their ships are massing near the gate over on the SMC side. There were already several tens of thousands there when I blasted my way through.

Yuri: That’s not good!

Torlo: So then, you’re saying--
Celina: Lugovalos’s invasion of the LMC is drawing near. Oh, and, uh…

Yuri: What?

Celina Sioufas shows a moment of hesitation, but when she sees Yuri’s powerful gaze transfixed on her, she quickly recovers.

Celina: It looks like Cico’s leading the fleet, and tow ace commanders have been called in from their home world. The first is Ursula Macklin. Word is she’s the daughter of Admiral Galvin Macklin, commander of the Macklin Fleet directly under the Emperor’s control. And the second commander is none other than our old pal, Niall Eremon.

Yuri: What?!

Semias: Eremon?! He’s still alive?!

Celina: I’m afraid so. He was demoted after his huge blunder ten years ago, but they brought him back after Desmond died.

Yuri: …

Celina: I came to the LMC to warn you, Yuri. Lugovalos is playing with a stacked deck. Each of those people is a serious threat.

Yuri: Thanks. I appreciate you going out of your way to deliver that information.

Celina: No problem. I hope we meet again sometime.

Semias: Please, wait! Celina! If you’d like, we’d sure love for you to join--
Celina: I’m a pirate. I always have been, I always will be.

Semias: …

Celina: Remember, Yuri, never lose your cool. A level head is the key to survival.

Yuri: Got it.

With that, Celina flies away again, leaving us in her wake.

Yuri: …

Kira: Yuri, isn’t Eremon that--
Yuri: Right. He led the invasion of the SMC. And he’s the one responsible for Nia’s death.

Kira: …

Yuri’s jaw is clenched tight, but the faint sound of his teeth grinding together can still be heard. All Kira can do is stare anxiously at Yuri, who is obviously struggling with some powerful emotions.
You’ll feel better once you’ve disemboweled him a little, Yuri.

With that, we fly onward to Ambach, and Yuri heads out to meet up with Roth.

Spoiler: Drinks with Roth (click to show/hide)

>>Royal Fleet HQ
Upon entering Royal Fleet Headquarters, Nele Baecker immediately ushers Yuri into a quiet room. Upon closer inspection, it appears to be Lord Roth’s private quarters.

Roth: Oh, I’m glad you could make it. Nele, get me that bottle of Burkmeister, would you?

Baecker: A little early to start drinking, isn’t it, Lord Roth?

Roth: Sobering times call for drastic measures, Nele, and I think libations are in order.

Baecker: Whatever you say.

Roth: I’ll have mine on the rocks. Yuri?

Yuri: Me, too, thanks.

Baecker: Coming right up.

With a nod, Nele quickly puts a couple of glasses and a bucket of ice on a tray and brings it over to the table. Then, with what appears to be a slightly sarcastic bow, she leaves the room. Yuri is surprised to see that Nele has also managed to whip up sandwiches stacked high with panmolo meat.

Yuri: Wow, she’s a great hostess!

Roth: Who is?

Yuri: Nele. Adjutants don’t usually do stuff like this, you know. Is there something you’re not telling me about you two?

Roth: Oh, don’t be silly. She’s my adjutant and nothing more.

Yuri: Oh. I see.

Roth: Come on! I mean, sure, we’ve known each other since the officer academy and all, but we’re just good friends and coworkers.

Yuri: Okay, if you say so.

Roth: Who do I get the impression you don’t believe me? Anyway, what about you? Nele’s told me about you and that girl Kira.

Yuri: Huh?!

Roth: She’s not just any old crew member now, is she?

Yuri: Right. She’s not any old crew member, she’s my sister!

Roth: So you say, but does anyone actually believe that?
To be fair, she and Yuri look nothing alike.

Yuri: I don’t care what anyone thinks. She’s my sister and a member of my crew, that’s all!

Roth: Hmph. As you so succinctly say, “Okay, if you say so.”

Lord Roth grins as he imitates Yuri’s manner of speech. Yuri responds with an annoyed look and takes a swig of his drink.

Roth: You know, I’ve been meaning to ask you for some time now…

Yuri: Ask me what?

Roth: Just how serious are you about all of this?
Serious enough to start several wars?

Yuri: You mean about uniting the LMC?

Roth: Right. Things seem to be heading in that direction. Is this really what you had planned?

Yuri: It was more of a last resort than a plan. Uniting the LMC was the only option left for opposing Lugovalos’s domination.

Roth: Yes, but you’re not even from the LMC! What reason could you possibly have for wanting to defend our galaxy?

Yuri: Oh, I have reason enough all right.

Roth: You do?

Yuri: Yeah, I’m a zero-G dog through and through. There’s no way I could ever live under Lugovalos’s iron thumb. I mean, they don’t let their spacefarers freely navigate the stars! I don’t care who it is. If someone tries to take away my freedom to roam the cosmos, I’m going to bite back hard! But that’s what any decent, self-respecting zero-G dog would do.

Roth: Hm.

Lord Roth listens intently to Yuri’s explanation, an unreadable look in his eyes. When Lord Roth eventually speak, he does so slowly, watching Yuri carefully.

Roth: I’m sorry, but that doesn’t sit with me.

Yuri: Why not?

Roth: I don’t believe it’s your real motive.

Yuri: Huh?

Roth: I dislike beating around the bush, so I will just come out and say it. I believe you want to use the LMC to get your revenge against the Lugovalians.

Yuri: You think I’m out for revenge?

Roth: That’s right. Nele heard all about it from one of your old friends: that incident concerning the woman named Nia Lochlain.

Yuri: …

Roth: Well? Are you going to look me in the eye and say you’re not using the LMC to settle an old score?

We’re given a choice, but it doesn’t affect anything more than this conversation.

>>No I’m not
Yuri: No I’m not. At least, I don’t think I am.

Roth: Well, now… So this isn’t about some sort of personal grudge?

Yuri: Well… I can’t say for sure. To be honest, I just don’t know.

Roth: You don’t?

Yuri: …

>>I don’t know.
Yuri: Frankly, I don’t know. That’s about all I can say.

Roth: You don’t know?

Yuri: Mm hm. There’s definitely a part of me that wants to get revenge for what happened to Nia, it’s true. But I also want to protect this galaxy. I wouldn’t ever lie about something as important as that.

Roth: Hm. So which is it?

Yuri: Like I said before, I really don’t know for sure myself.

Roth: Hm…

Yuri: …

Roth: (sighs)

Yuri: …

Roth: Ha ha! Ha ha ha! Ah ha ha ha ha! I see, I see. So you don’t even know yourself? I actually know what you mean about not knowing, if that makes any sense. After all, is there anyone out there who truly knows exactly why they feel the way they do?

Yuri: I--
Roth: No, no! There’s no need to say another word! Let’s drink some more. A lot more, in fact. Bottoms up!

Yuri: …

Lord Roth quickly clinks his glass against the one in Yuri’s hand. The two proceed to drain what’s left in their glasses with synchronized gulps.

Yuri wakes up outside the next morning with little memory of the evening following that.

>>Royal Fleet HQ
This is Regeinland’s Royal Fleet Headquarters. At the back of the War Room, Lord Roth is working at a terminal, while at his side, Nele Baecker is sorting through documents.

>>Talk to Nele Baecker
Yuri: Lord Roth told me that you graduated second in your class at the academy.

Baecker: Yes, I did.

Yuri: Then you’re obviously qualified for something higher than adjutant. Don’t you want to work your way up the ranks?

Baecker: Work my way up? No, thank you.

Franny: What’s the deal? Don’t you got no ambition?

Baecker: It’s not that. It’s just, if I work my way up, I’ll eventually outrank Lord Roth. And a lazy bum like that as subordinate would make my life even more miserable than it is now.

Franny: Uh, okay. Whatever you say.
Give it up, Nele, you two are fooling no one.

>>Talk to Lord Roth
 Yuri: With a name like the Royal Fleet, I thought you guys would never leave the King’s side.

Roth: Well, we do serve directly under the King, and we follow his every order, whatever it may be. I suppose you could say we’re more like the old man’s errand boys.

Baecker: Hartwig! Have a little more respect when you talk about His Majesty!

Roth: oh, what’s the big deal, Nele? He’s not here, is he? Anyway, our country is better at attacking than defending. That’s why the Royal Fleet is given the freedom to go out on missions far from the King’s side whenever it’s necessary.

Yuri: So, then, you have the ability to execute whatever orders you’re given? That’s what makes you the Royal Fleet?

Roth: Exactly.

If we talk to Lord Roth again…

Roth: I envy you, Yuri.

Yuri: Where did that come from all of a sudden?

Roth: I’m just a little jealous of the freedom you zero-G dogs have compared to us military types. I mean, for one thing, your female crew members can dress however they please. It’s quite a feast for the eyes, I must say!

This sneakily sets a recruitment flag. If you agree, you get a female pilot, if you disagree, you get an elite (but male) pilot.

>>You think so?
Yuri: You think so? I never really noticed.

Thomas: oh, yeah, I know exactly what you mean. Long voyages can be though without a little eye candy to get your mind off it.
Shut up, Thomas, before Yuri cuts you for ogling his sister’s cleavage.

Roth: Exactly! But I’m always stuck on military ships, where the female officers dress in bland, even ugly uniforms--
Baecker: …
The force of her silent disapproval shuts him up.

Roth: …

Baecker: You’re going to get an earful from me later, Hartwig. Does the term “sexual harassment” not mean anything to you?

Roth: Uh oh.

We leave before Roth says anything worse and gets a second foot into his mouth beside the first one. As we travel back towards Rentinen to see if anything has changed, we receive a message.

Kira: Yuri, we just received a message from Vice Admiral Sankt. He has details on the next operation, so he wants us to return to Headquarters back on Rentinen.

Yuri: Okay.

Torlo: Finally, the decisive battle with Libertas. It’s gonna be a big one, all right!

Gen: Not necessarily. Not all of Libertas--(coughs)(chokes)(sputters)

Tatiana: It’s that cough again. Are you sure you’re all right?

Alik:Y-You look pale, Master Gen.

Gen: Oh, don’t you worry about me. I’ll be fine. (coughs)
He was an old man already, and having his health ruined by ten years of hard labor on a prison planet hasn’t helped any.

Alik: …

>>Rentinen
When we reach the planet, Tatiana pulls Yuri aside.

Tatiana: Yuri, do you have a moment?

Tatiana Agarkov comes up behind Yuri as he is preparing to dock at the spaceport and starts talking in hushed tones.

Tatiana: It’s Gen. He’s gotten much worse.

Yuri: He has?!

Tatiana: We had our medical staff examine him, but he’s already grown extremely weak. He is sleeping in the sick bay right now.

Yuri: Will he recover?

Tatiana: I don’t know. It’s not that he’s particularly sick, it’s more of an age-related thing. I don’t even know if he’ll ever be able to get out of bed again. We’ve tried to convince him to check into an off-ship hospital, but he won’t hear of it. What do you think we should do, Yuri?

Yuri: … Let him do whatever he wants.

Tatiana: Are you sure that’s a good idea?

Yuri: men like him would rather draw their last breaths on the battlefield, even if they can’t stand on their own.
I prefer to think that Gen would prefer to die surrounded by friends and loved ones, not in some hospital all alone.

Tatiana: … If you say so.

Yuri: …

Tatiana: You know, you men can be such stubborn idiots sometimes!

In a huff, Tatiana leaves to return to her post.

Despite Gen’s weakness, he’s still serving faithfully as our Assistant Operator. Perhaps he remotes in from the sickbay?

[Hanzoku]

Assault on Orders Part 1
New Characters: Bernard, Beyer, Norton, Serreno
New Ships: Bastian (DD), Bastian 2 (DD), Magellan (CG)
New Fighters:

Spoiler: Discovering Regeinland’s Military Shortcomings (click to show/hide)

Where we last left off, we’d just arrived at Rentinen, and Gen’s health continues to decline. Since there’s not a lot we can do about that, we head down to find out the grand strategy for destroying an independent military power without screwing up too much of the surrounding nation that may or may not fully support them.

But first, we talk to our friends.

>>Tavern
Conversation #1
Nerissa: You wouldn’t believe how busy I’ve been ever since coming to the LMC. After all, I keep learning about one new ship after another. On top of that, the output control system for inflaton inverters differs by country.

Yuri: Are they all that different? I never really noticed during my inspections.

Nerissa: That’s because you didn’t take a close look under the hood. I mean, the shroud structure is completely different.

Yuri: Interesting. I’d like to hear more if you’ve got a moment.

Nerissa: That’s right. You worked at an engine repair shop when you were younger, didn’t you, Captain? In that case, you won’t mind if I get a little technical on you, will you?

Yuri: It’s been awhile, but go ahead, fire away!

Nerissa: Knowing you, you’ll be just fine. I only have trouble explaining this kind of stuff to newbies. Now, let’s start with the shroud structure I mentioned. Basically, shrouds can be divided into the R type and hyper-sealed type, but…

Yuri learned about engines from Nerissa Roubis! Yuri’s Maintenance skill increased by 2!

Otherwise, it’s just Kira taking over from Ratai on nagging Yuri about his drinking habit.

>>Alpha Quadrant Headquarters
The officers of Regeinland’s military have already gathered here in full force at their headquarters on Rentinen. But not one of them utters so much as a word as they wait for Luitger Sankt to begin speaking.

Sankt: All right, I’m going to provide you with an overview of our military offensive against Libertas and Orders. Taking out Orders will be key because they form the core of the hardliners within Libertas and the Federation itself. Remember, striking Orders hard without allowing the conflict to expand is our main objective here.

The battle is most likely going to take place in the Hiwarz Sector near the Elson Star System. That sector provides high navigational safety and can accommodate numerous fleets, which makes it the perfect battlefield. The enemy no doubt sees that, too, and will choose to engage us there.

We will deploy five ships from the Royal Fleet and 120 from the Space Armored Fleet. They will be supported by fifteen ships from the Dragoon Fleet and thirty from the Heavy Artillery Fleet. We also plan to rendezvous with fleets from our allies Nacio and the recently defeated Enemonzo.

A commotion spreads throughout the War Room in response to Luitger Sankt’s plan.

Beyer: So, we will commit the vast majority of our military to the strike force?
Huh? He’s committing 170 ships. Elgava could put 10,000 ships in the sky. Granted, they died like flies, but something’s wrong with your star nation if 170 ships is most of your forces.

Dietrich: Home planet defenses will be left at worse than bare minimum!

Sankt: This is the only way to put us on equal footing, I’m afraid. And considering that this is a battle for the very future of the Galactic Federation, I wish we had more to spare.
And this is one of the places where the numbers are wonky in Infinite Space. You can have a nation spread across several sectors with a combined population in the trillions, yet they’ll only have ~200 ships at most.

Beyer: yes, but--
Roth: Simply put, if we lose this battle, we’ll be swiftly brought under Libertasian control anyway. There won’t be any home planets to defend.

Beyer: Hrm…

Sankt: There’s one more important role to be filled. Will you help us once more, Yuri?

Yuri: What did you have in mind?

Sankt: As I mentioned, we are going to attempt to engage their main force. That will allow you to break through the enemy line from another direction and strike Orders’ home base.

Yuri: Interesting.

Dietrich: Wait just a minute! That’s far too risky, even bordering on suicide!

Dietrich Schneizer abruptly rises to his feet and blurts out his concern, interrupting Yuri before he can respond. But Luitger Sankt continues without batting an eye, despite the lieutenant’s criticism.

Sankt: The enemy fleet must be hit hard. As long as Libertas stands behind Orders, there will be no avoiding a protracted war. The fact that Lugovalos may mount an invasion at any time dictates we must bring hostilities to a swift end.

Dietrich: But--
Yuri: Don’t worry, Lieutenant. Missions like these are second nature to me.

Dietrich: Captain…

Torlo: So where’s that stinkin’ Orders base anyhow?

Sankt: Our intelligence service hasn’t been able to pinpoint its location just yet. All we know so far is that it’s a space fortress known as “Taurus.”

Franny: Tsk! In other words you’re telling us to find it ourselves, aren’t you?

Sankt: I’m afraid so.

Franny: (sighs) Don’t we got anything better to do than go on some wild goose chase?

Torlo: Lay off the guy, Franny. Don’t ya see? He’s giving us the tough mission ‘cause we’re just that good!

Yuri: Torlo’s right, at least about taking on tough missions.  You can count on us, Vice Admiral.

Sankt: I’m sorry to put you in this position, Captain. All right, this concludes our strategy meeting. Access to the official orders will be provided n twenty-seven hours. Until then, all ships are to remain on high alert. You will receive your formation charts along with your orders, at which point we’ll begin shipping out to the staging point.

With that, we’re done here and leave the building. We leave and make for the Escondido gate nearby, From there, we can then jump to the Hinwald sector.

However, part-way we’re stopped by an event.

Tatiana: Yuri, do you have a moment?

Yuri: Hm? Is it Master Gen?

Tatiana: Our medical staff says it may not happen right away, but we should start preparing for the worst.

Yuri: …

Tatiana: I know your time is limited while we’re on the move, but you should go visit him as soon as you can when we touch down.

Yuri: I’ll do that.

We divert from the void gate and head to the nearby planet of Canopus so Yuri can visit Gen.

>>Visit Gen
Alik: Ah, C-Captain…

Yuri: Hi, Alik. Is Gen sleeping?

Alik: N-No. He’s awake.

Yuri is once again struck by how weak and pale Gen Nadiy looks, but he tries his best not to show it on his face.

Yuri: Master Gen…

Gen: Oh, hello Yuri. You must be busy with your work.

Yuri: No, everything’s done now.

Gen: Heh heh… (coughs)(chokes) No, not everything…

Yuri: Huh?

Gen: Orders is an organization born of the very heart of the Galactic Federation. (coughs) As such, we can ill afford to leave those who collaborated with Orders free to cause further damage.

Yuri: You’re right. This is a good chance to settle things. Shall we expose the collaborator for what they are?

Gen: yes, let’s do that.

We’re given a choice of who to expose. Was it… Semias, with us since the LMC? Franny, who blew up a Libertasian Cruiser and was stuck on our prison planet for years? Or Thomas, the newcomer to the rock who quickly wiggled his way into our inner circle?

Choosing the wrong one decreases your fame by 20. Choosing the correct one first gives you a bonus to Yuri’s Leadership.

>>Talk to Thomas Veil.
Yuri: This is Yuri. Send Thomas down to the sick bay now.

Thomas Veil shows up almost instantly after Yuri summons him over the comm system.

Thomas: You called, Captain?

Yuri: Yeah, I was thinking it was about time you told me exactly what you’re doing on my ship.

Thomas: Sorry, I don’t get what--
Yuri: No more games, Thomas.

Yuri: You have two choices: spill the beans or I spill your guts.

Yuri: Your choice.

Thomas: But…

Yuri: …

Thomas: Okay, okay! I’ll tell you anything you want! Just stop lookin’ at me like that!

Yuri: Well, that was easier than I thought it would be.
I thought I’d have to eviscerate you a few times. Since we’re in the medbay, we could even patch you up straight away so I could do so over and over again.

Thomas: Heh heh. Well I may be operating kinda like a spy, but it’s not like I was trying to hurt you or your cause, Captain.

Yuri: Go on.

Thomas: Right. Well, the truth is, I’m really an agent of the Federation Security Network, better known as the FSN.

Yuri: FSN?

Yuri seems slightly perplexed as he questions Thomas. While it’s the same Thomas speaking, the expression of relaxed nonchalance he always wore is now gone.

Gen: If I’m not mistaken, it’s an intelligence agency controlled directly by the President.

Thomas: That’s right. I guess you’ve heard of us. The Brian administration ordered me to try ‘n’ get as close to you as I could.

Yuri: But what could the Brian administration want from me?

Thomas: Actually, it’s President Brian himself who’s been interested in you. Ya see, Libertas basically pulls the strings of the whole Federation. But they’re worried about the political unrest that could happen if the people found out about the Lugovalian threat. That’s why they’re doing everything they can to cover it up. But the President knows this’ll just give the Federation a false sense of security. It’ll be too late to act once the invasion starts. That’s where you come in. He wants you to stir things up. You know, break the status quo and all that.
Mission Accomplished?

Yuri: It’s all starting to make sense now. So, he had a hand in our escape from Lari?

Thomas: Ha ha…. I guess there’s no fooling you.

Yuri: Well, come on, my ship just happened to be there and you, a brand-new inmate, just so happened to find it? Who wouldn’t get a little suspicious after coincidences like that?

Thomas: Heh heh. I see your point. Well let’s just leave it at that then. Anyway, the President is all for the changes you’ve set in motion, especially the integration of all LMC nations into the Galactic Federation. It’s finally time for the Federation to return to the purpose it once set out for.

Yuri: Hm. It sounds like you’re telling the truth, but can you prove it?

Thomas: I got it covered! I’ve already contacted the FSN’s director over on Arenberg in the Hinwald Sector. Now that ya know who I am, I want ya to talk directly with Director Brad Lennox.

Yuri: Arenberg, huh? Okay, let’s head over there then. Oh, and Thomas, I’ll put off my decision on what to do with you until I have more information.
Yuri is supremely confident in his ass-kicking skills by this point. The possibility of walking into a trap he can’t fight his way back out of doesn’t cross his mind.

Thomas: Got it.

Thomas gives a salute and starts to leave, whereupon Yuri’s voice stops him in his tracks.

Yuri: Thomas.

Thomas: Yeah?

Yuri: I don’t want the other crew members to know who you are yet. Just keep acting like nothing ever happened.

Thomas: Heh he. You got it.

Thomas salutes again, this time in a slightly comical manner, before exiting the sick bay.

Yuri: What do you think, Master Gen?

Gen: (coughs) Yes, well, it would appear that he’s telling the truth, but we shall see. In any case, it would be worth our while to meet this Brad Lennox if he really is the director of the FSN.

Yuri: Right, and that’s just what I plan to do.

Spoiler: Holo Killed the Manga Star (click to show/hide)

With that, we’re ready to make the jump to the Hinwald Sector.



Unlike with the Zenitonian Sector, the Hinwald sector is well known and fully mapped.

We barely leave the void gate before we start meeting our new friends – the Libertas military. In this case, two Bastian-class destroyers and two Bastian 2-class destroyers. Given we have a battleship, it ends somewhat predictably.

At the first empty sector, Yuri notices something.

Yuri: Hm? There’s a fleet up ahead. Kira, can you tell me who’s in command?

Kira: It looks like there are two fleets actually. There’s Commander Schneizer’s fleet, and another one belonging to Enemonzo.
Commander, huh? I think it’s a misstatement, but I wouldn’t mind if our friend got a promotion.

Franny: Enemonzo? Are they here as reinforcements?

Kira: That would be my guess.

Dietrich: Captain, we’ve been waiting for you.

Yuri: Commander, I see you have an Enemonzon fleet with you.

Dietrich: Yes. But we are putting them under your command. I’ve already received the okay from Vice Admiral Sankt.

Yuri: Under my command?

Serreno: That’s right, Captain. We’re joining you for the assault on the Taurus.

Yuri: And you are…?

Serreno: Lieutenant Commander Aria Serreno, Enemonzon Sector 248 Patrol Fleet. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the honor of battling you personally during the defense of our homeland.
And I’m not bitter about being forced to aid our conquerors… at all.

Serreno: But I have heard of your amazing command skills, and I look forward to battling alongside you as your newfound ally. We’ll be eagerly awaiting your orders.

Yuri: Well, Serreno, Schneizer, this is shaping up to be quite a strike force.

The Taurus battle fortress, a man-made planetoid, is standing by in the depths of the Hinwald Sector, where it is functioning as Order’s frontline headquarters.
No, as far as I know, it doesn’t have a planet-destroying superlaser. That’s still stuck in the SMC.

Evans: What is the meaning of this, Commander Norton?

Norton: What is the meaning of what?

Evans: The fleet from Libertas. Are you telling me these are all the ships they could spare? Need I remind you that Regeinland is in open rebellion against Libertas and the entire Federation itself?

Norton: Oh, I assure you, Mr. Chairman, I completely understand what you’re saying. But I’m ashamed to say our forces are completely occupied with maintaining order across the Federation at the moment. Add Adis and the Lugovalian threat to the mix, and you can no doubt see how thinly we are stretched. I hope--
Evans: I’ve heard more than enough.

The video feed of Kevin Norton, Libertas’ fleet commander, scrambles and then vanishes as if Daniel Evans angrily cut it off.
As he did.

Bernard: That worthless fool! He intends to play possum!

Evans: yes. Just like the rest of the Federation nations. They’re all waiting to see how the war goes before deciding whether to side with us or Regeinland.

Bernard: I also heard Assembly Member Norbert Weimar and his cronies are aggressively lobbying against us. Shouldn’t we crush him while we still have a chance?!

Evans: Silencing one man can’t possibly halt everything that’s been set in motion.

Bernard: Yes, but--
Evans: Listen, Bernard, you just worry about winning your next battle, hm? If you’re a true military man, you will change the course of history on the battlefield, not by assassination.

Bernard: Er… Yes, sir.

Zanetti: Chairman Evans is right. And the Orsino Foundation will do everything it can to help.
If you’re wondering who this is, we met him a long time ago in the SMC, at the trade summit.

Evans: Yes. We’re counting on you, Chairman Zanetti. This is your chance to show us what the ZR 2 is truly capable of.

Zanetti: Heh heh. Just leave it to me. The ZR 2’s Hyperon Integrator will reduce the entire Regeinlandic fleet to cosmic dust.

Oh, I stand corrected. They attached the planet-destroying superlaser to a ship instead of the battlestation.

With a lingering look at the enemy superweapon, we’re back in control.

We head to Regulus to start our inquiries on the ground.

>>Regulus
While docking, our resident manga artist interrupts Yuri.

Anchjo: Captain, you got a second?

The bridge has emptied out considerably following completion of the port entry procedure. Anchjo Luzerno strolls in with a large number of data plates in hand.

Anchjo: I have something I need to take care of. Could you let me of the ship?

Yuri: Your shift isn’t over for another six hours, Luzerno. Go stand by at your assigned port until then.

Anchjo: Yeah, yeah, I know that. It’s just, I have to leave now  or I’ll miss my appointment with that production company.

Yuri: What the Grus are you talking about?!

Anchjo: Oh, uh, it’s kinda hard to explain. Please, please! It’s too late to change the meeting time. I’ve got to leave now!

Yuri: …
For once, I’ll show both options, mostly because the one we’re not taking is funny.
>>Okay.
Yuri: Okay, fine. But you’d better make up the time during your next shift.

Anchjo: Yes, yes, I will.

Anchjo Luzerno leaves the bridge as if he is on cloud nine. As Yuri watches him walk off, he turns to Semias Alastar.

Yuri: What production company was he talking about?

Semias: It probably has something to do with one of those comic strips of his.

Yuri: Hm.

Before Yuri knows it, Anchjo Luzerno has expanded his comic series “Galactic Yuri” into an animation series! Yuri’s Fame increased by 1,000!
The ‘Special’ episodes featuring Kira and the other girls in a harem setting results in the orbital bombardment of Regulus, with Anchjo’s mutilated form used as a macabre figurehead for the Kappa.

>>I don’t think so.
Yuri: I don’t think so. I don’t make changes to the shift schedule without good reason.

Anchjo: Oh, c’mon, don’t be like that!

Yuri: Those are the ship’s rules.

Anchjo: Tsk. Actually, there was something in it for you, too. You’ve totally blown it for both of us now. I hope you’re happy.
Far happier than otherwise. Also, Yuri’s more famous then Valantin, so he doesn’t need your anime.

Anchjo Luzerno leaves the bridge, mumbling unhappily as he goes.

Yuri’s Leadership experience increased by 30!
Normally, you take the fame and are happy about it, but in this case, it’s simply unnecessary now.

>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: They say these invaders called “Lugovalians” are going to attack us from another galaxy. But honestly, I really don’t feel scared just yet. I mean, there aren’t any void gates connected to this other galaxy, right? How are they going to get all the way here and still maintain their supply line? (shakes head)
Heh, funny you should mention that… one of Yuri and company’s less intelligent moments, that…

>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Torlo: Hey, gals. How’s old man Gen doing?

Tatiana: Not too good. He’s trying hard not to alarm everyone, but he must be suffering pretty bad. You can see it in his face.

Kira: Can’t something be done to help him?

Tatiana: It’s more of a matter of his age than any sort of treatable illness, actually. Even regeneration treatments can only do so much.

Kira: Oh…

Conversation #2
Gadina: If someone would’ve told me I’d be part of this big of a battle, I would’ve told them they were nuts!

Yuri: Yeah, well once we start taking on Lugovalos, the battles will only get bigger.

Gadina: No doubt. Still, I never imagined I’d ever get caught up in something like this when I first signed up with you.

Yuri: Do you regret it now?

Gadina: You kidding? I’ve loved every minute of it! Thanks to you, I’ve been living a life I’d only dreamed about!

Conversation #3
Alik Kovalenko is sitting alone at the counter with a glass of soda water in hand and a grave look upon his face.

Alik: …

Yuri: Alik, mind if I sit here?

Alik: Oh, no, pl-please, sit.

Yuri: …

Alik: …

The two continue their drinking in silence. They both understand that nothing needs to be said right now.

Spoiler: The Kidnapped Director (click to show/hide)

Well, that was a bust. Let’s try Luzir next.

>>Luzir
>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: I can’t believe there are so many military ships stationed around such an out-of-the-way planet like ours. I always thought that the Galactic Federation was as solid as a rock. Who knows what’s going to happen now?

>>Talk to the handsome man.
Handsome Man: (sighs) This is so lame. I really wanted to go to the GG Girls concert over on Rastaban. Those girls are the best! But I’m too scared to travel right now, what with all those military ships prowling around out there. What am I going to do?!
Stop being a creep, for one.

We head towards the planet Arenberg next, running into more Libertas fleets. This one includes a Magellan-class Cruiser. It doesn’t do a lot better than the destroyers do.

>>Arenberg
>>Tavern
Thomas: I was supposed to meet with Director Lennox here.

Yuri: He’s not here?

Thomas: Nope. This is weird. He’s not the kinda guy who’d flake out like this.

Yuri: …

Kira: What are you two whispering about?

Thomas: Huh?! Oh, uh, n-nothing! Nothing at all, heh heh…
You are a terrible spy, Thomas.

Kira: …

>>Talk to the bartender.
Thomas: Hey, barkeep, you ever seen this guy before?

The bartender casts a quick sideways glance at the hologram image Thomas Veil holds up, and then just as quickly looks away. It is obvious from his body language that he knows something.

Yuri: Hm.

We can choose to bribe him or threaten to gut him. Both work, but we know how Yuri likes to operate, so the obvious choice is…

>>Rough him up.

Yuri: Go to Grus!

Yuri slugs the shady-looking bartender with a mighty blow. Staggered by the powerful force of the punch, the bartender lets out a cry of surprise and pain.

Bartender: Ah! What the Grus was that for?!

Yuri: You know something, so you’d better start talking now!

Bartender: Yikes!

Yuri: Well?

Yuri stares straight at the bartender and raises his fist again. The bartender responds by hastily raising both hands in front of him, to show he does not want to fight.

Bartender: N-No, wait! I’ll talk! I’ll tell you anything you want!

Yuri: Go on then.

Bartender: W-Well, i-it’s like this, ya see. That fella you’re looking for was abducted by a smuggling ring from Wahlstatt.

Thomas: Huh?! What would smugglers want with Director Lennox?

Bartender: All I know is they’re a nasty criminal gang that’s involved in the smuggling of phermeon.

Semias: Phermeon? That’s a chemical substance used in the manufacture of a highly toxic gas, among other things.

Bartender: Yeah, and it seems your pal was poking his nose in where it didn’t belong. They nabbed him as soon as he stepped outside my place.

Yuri: Do you know where they took him?

Bartender: Word is there’s a smuggler’s hideout on Wahlstatt, somewhere on the outskirts of town. I’d start there, if I were you. But chances are you’ll only find his dead body, the way those guys roll.

Thomas: Captain…

Yuri: I know. We’d better go rescue him.

Thomas: Aye aye!

Yuri’s Fame decreased by 50!
Oh boo hoo.

>>Talk to bartender.
Bartender: Law and order’s really gone down the hole since the start of this war. And it isn’t just the pirates. Us ground dwellers have to do whatever it takes just to survive.
Like say, sell out someone to the pirates for a reward?

Our next destination is obviously Wahlstatt, but let me show off something nasty first. If you overreach yourself by going to Area 3 sectors, this happens…

Adjutant: Mr. Zanetti, we’ve confirmed a small fleet within range of the ZR 2!

Zanetti: A perfect opportunity for a test run. Prepare to fire the Hyperon Integrator!

Adjutant: Roger that!

No, don’t ask me how a beam curves through space.

Kira: Huh?! Yuri, we have a massive hyperon reaction rapidly approaching!

Yuri: What?! Wh-Where… did…

And then the fleet is annihilated due to the power of cut-scene mechanics. Hope you saved at the last planet!

[etgfrog]

I have been enjoying reading through your playthrough. I remember when I played through it I ended up forgetting what I was doing after so many fights.

[Hanzoku]

Thanks etgfrog, I'm glad you're enjoying it. When playing games with a lot of fighting between the plot points, I tend to keep a hint guide open - not specifically because I want to spoil everything for myself, but because it's handy to have on hand to remember where I was going once the slaughter of the enemy is complete.

Also, the next update will be delayed - a combination of the holidays, some personal issues and being sick for the last week has conspired against me.

[Hanzoku]

Assault on Orders Part 2
New Characters: Kitson, Rocco, Zachman
New Ships: Liberty (CG), Nebula (BB)
New Fighters:

Spoiler: The Director and the Pun Pirates (click to show/hide)

So now that we know to be careful, the only thing we can do is search for Thomas’ missing boss.

But before we do that, we’ll head over to the Elson system. Along the way, we run into a new contender – the Liberty-class cruiser. It’s decently punchy and survives several normal volleys, so we might look into picking one up as a new cruiser design when we pick up the Libertas designs. When we’re just short of the Elson Sector, Torlo interrupts.

Torlo: Hey, Yuri, that’s the Elson Star System up ahead. You know, where the battle’s gonna take place? Joining in on the battle ain’t part of our mission, remember?

Yuri: Oh, yeah, right. T here’s no point in going that way. We’ll just get mi9xed up in something we should be avoiding.

And thus, we head to Wahlstatt, as the last place we can go that doesn’t get us blown to Grus.

>>Wahlstatt
>>Tavern
As soon as we walk in, we run into Phyllis.
Phyllis: No way! How come that had no effect?!

Phyllis French can be heard screaming at the back of the tavern. Yuri looks over to see that she is engaged in a heated battle with Mihhaelo Luko in a dogfight arcade game.

Luko: …

Phyllis: Ah… Ahhhh! Oh, come on!

With a tiny explosion, Luko wins.
Luko: Game over, Phyllis.

Phyllis: One more time! Come on! Just one more!

Luko: Don’t waste your time. You can’t beat me in a dogfight, even if it is just a game!

Phyllis: Uuh… Why you…! I hate you, Luko, you thumb-sucking moron!

Phyllis storms out of the tavern, spewing childish insults behind her. Luko finally notices that Yuri has been on the sidelines, watching the incident unfold.

Luko: I guess I could have been a little nicer.

Yuri: Don’t worry about it. She can get a little overconfident sometimes. It wouldn’t hurt to take her down a notice, if you ask me.

Luko: if you say so.

Yuri: By the way, Luko…

Luko: Yeah?

Yuri: You don’t really suck your thumb, do you?
Yuri says with deadpan seriousness.

Luko: …

Yuri: …

Luko: …

Seeing that Luko isn’t finding it funny…
Yuri: Oh, uh. Sorry.

Luko: Can I go now?

Phyllis French’s Piloting skill increased by 1!

>>Talk to the bartender
Bartender: Let me give you a little piece of advice. I wouldn’t wander around this area too much if I were you. This planet has its fair share of notorious pirates, you know. If you want to boost your fame and live to talk about it, you should stick to the pirates in and around the Xeos Belt.
Eh, these pirates are at least smart enough to hide when there is a full scale war going on in the sector.

With that, it’s time to visit the kidnappers and stab them in the face reason with them.

>>Smugglers’ Base
Yuri: This must be it.

Thomas: This place is more heavily guarded than your sister’s goodies, if you know what I mean.
Yuri does, Thomas. And it’s amazing what sort of ‘friendly fire’ incidents can happen in combat.

Yuri: Um… Not exactly. Anyway, they’re just a bunch of petty thieves. We should probably just bust in there and clear them out.
haha, if only that were true…

We head inside, and a few corridors in, run into opposition.

Smuggler: Get ready, fool! We’re gonna break every bone in your body!

The smugglers attack!
The first battle is reasonable – 1525 crew with 80 skill versus 1200 with 20 skill. We lead with a Commander attack and wipe them out instantly.

We keep going for a few levels of monotonous corridors, until on the fourth floor we run into more opposition.

Yuri: Hm?!

I understand Yuri’s response…

Zachman: …

Rocco: …

Yuri and company storm in, only to find the two boss-like figures barring their way, with their men arrayed behind them. They look immovable, intimidating and thoroughly bad to the bone.

Yuri: Who are you?

Zachman: Heh. Eh heh heh heh heh….

Rocco: Hey, boss, he wants to know who we are! Guess he’s got a bone to pick with us!

Yuri: …

Zachman: Ha ha, good one! Guess I’ll just tell him! He obviously forgot to bone up before bustin’ in! The name’s Albert Zachman.

Rocco: And I’m his number-one go-to guy, Rocco.

Thomas: Wait a second!

Franny: A-Albert Zachman?!
Yes, the dreaded Albert Zachman! Who we’ve never heard of before now!

Tatiana: What? You know him, Franny?

Franny: Fortunately, no. But I’ve sure heard of him. He leads one of the most ruthless pirate gangs this side of the LMC!

Zachman: Heh heh heh. Well at least somebody around here did their homework. But we’re not “one of” the most ruthless pirate gangs, we ARE the most ruthless! That’s right, you boneheads have crossed paths with the Bad-to-the-Bones Pirates!

Yuri: …
About my reaction.

Franny: Yuri, these guys are bad news! Zachman is a big-time pirate, just like that Valantin!

Yuri: Like Valantin? I don’t know… With a name like “Bad-to-the-Bone Pirates,” it’s kind of hard to take them seriously. I guess we’ll just have to find out.
Lady, I’m Yuri the Reaver! I’m more feared that Valantin himself!

Zachman: Bah, so our nasty reputation doesn’t have ya chilled to the bone, eh? Well, I suppose your gutsy attitude has earned ya the right to be our next victim!

Rocco: yeah, boss, let’s carve ‘em up good! Pull ‘em apart like a wish bone! Then, debone ‘em! Yeah!

…Okay, I’m done with dealing with your terrible puns. Die! I, Yuri, will knock you all down!

Bad puns aside, this is one of the hardest ground combats we’ve had in a very long time. They have 1600 men to our 1525, and a massive combat skill of 149 to our 80. The help guide I’m using to avoid skipping things recommends picking up extra security rooms specifically for this fight.

It really doesn’t matter though. We open with Commander and beat their opening Slash, killing all but 86 of them straight out. Where the combat power difference comes into play is that the remaining 86 aren’t dying all that fast, even with a combat triangle disadvantage. They switch to shooting, killing about a hundred crew before we switch to slash, gaining advantage again.  The next round, they stick on shooting and we switch to shooting, having anticipated wrongly that they would switch to commander. By now, we have 1380 crew and they have 14 left. We stick on shooting and they switch to leader, ending the battle in a flurry of maser rounds.

Zachman: Bah. They sure got a lotta nerve bustin’ in here like that!

Rocco: That lotta nerve of theirs is making me pretty nervous.

Zachman: Bah. All right, Rocco, we’re outta here!

Rocco: yes, sir, boss, sir!

The two try to run for it, and Torlo starts to chase them.

Torlo: Hey, you! Don’t make another move!

Yuri: No, Torlo, let them go! Their gang may have a stupid name, but they’re a lot more dangerous than they look, even without the rest of their men.

Tatiana: Yuri’s right. You’ll get yourself killed if you go after them. Besides, we already got what we wanted here.

Torlo: Tsk, fine. Whatever.

Spoiler: Treading the Hidden Path (click to show/hide)

The crew splits up and searches the lair.

Thomas: Captain, this here room is locked!

Thomas Veil, who had been checking doors all along the corridor, is standing in front of one door that is still shut.

Yuri: Hmph!

With a single swing of his plasmic blade, Yuri splits the door in two. The now-empty doorway opens up into a small room. On the opposite side, they see one man sitting there.

For some reason, they like to pretend we don’t know who Lennox is.

Lennox: …

Thomas: Director Lennox! We found you! Are you all right?!

Lennox: Ah, Thomas, it’s you… How’s your mission going?

Thomas: Oh, that? Well, actually… Er…

The screen fades to black and returns while Thomas lays out his utter failure.

Lennox: Huh. I didn’t think your cover would be blown so easily. But I guess I shouldn’t be surprised, what with the target being the Special Prisoner and all. Of course, I wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, Captain, but let me just say that I owe you one. I was starting to think that I’d never get out of here alive.

Lennox: Now then, since our cover’s been blown, I’ll just cut to the chase. Listen carefully, Captain, because I’m about to tell you where to find the Taurus battle fortress, which serves as Orders’ main base.

Yuri: You know where the Taurus is?!

Lennox: Well, I may not look the part, but I am director of the Federation Security Network. Here, let me see your phenomena log. I’ll transfer the coordinate data to your hologram chart.

Semias: Much obliged! Now we can finally launch our operation against Orders!

Lennox: I’m afraid it’s not that simple.

Kira: What do you mean?

Lennox: You see, they are in possession of the ZR 2. It’s a very powerful weapon that could finish a battle with a single blast.

Kira: The ZR 2?

Torlo: you said it could end a battle with one blast, but that kinds sounds like hooey. Is it really that bad-ass?

Lennox: All that I know for sure is that it is extremely dangerous. After all, it’s a massive hyperon integration cannon with a firing range that could cover half of this sector.

Aminda: A hyperon integration cannon. Interesting.

Yuri: What sort of weapon is that?

Aminda: it fires hyperons, which are particles with incredible penetrating power. The hyperons kill every single crew member on board through a neutron disturbance effect while leaving the ship itself intact. You end up with one big ghost ship fleet.
Huh, perfect for salvaging.

Torlo: Whoa, that is bad-ass.

Semias: How could Orders have developed such a powerful weapon?

Lennox: They didn’t. it’s the product of the Orsino Foundation’s research. Orsino was a massive ship development company headquartered on Enemonzo. After Enemonzo fell to Regeinland, its chairman, Saverio Zanetti, escaped and allied himself with Orders.

Yuri: So, where is this ZR 2 now?

Lennox: It’s been deployed near the Taurus Sector, and its range is said to extend as far as the outer reaches of the Elson Star System. I wouldn’t travel along the route between the Taurus Sector and the Elson Star System Sector if I were you.

Torlo: Oh, don’t worry! We ain’t settin’ foot anywhere near that place!

Lennox: Captain, you were saying your mission was to capture the Taurus.

Yuri: You’re worried about the ZR 2’s range, aren’t you?

Lennox: yes, you’re very perceptive. The problem is, the ZR 2’s range covers almost the entire starlane to the Taurus Sector.

Kira: Huh?

Franny: Tsk! We won’t be able to get anywhere near them without getting fried!

Lennox: Well, there is that secret starlane I was looking for…

Yuri: A secret starlane?

Lennox: That’s right. The Bad-to-the-Bone Pirates are using a secret starlane to smuggle phermeon from some other planet. I thought that if I could find that starlane, then maybe--
Torlo: Don’t tell me! They got wind of you when you were snooping around tryin’ to find it!

Lennox: Unfortunately, yes. I spotted their smuggling ship and tailed them to a tavern, then they captured me.

Yuri: Okay, that should be enough for us to go on. We’ll handle it from here. It is our mission, after all.

Lennox: Okay, then, I’ll head back to headquarters for now. I imagine we’ll meet again, should this mission end in your favor. Good luck!

Yuri: Thanks.

Lennox: Now, about Agent Veil. Do you mind if he stays on with your crew for a while? That is, only if you wish to stay in contact with FSN.

Yuri: …

Thomas: Captain, I… I’d sure like to keep serving aboard your ship.

Yuri: …

Thomas: Uh, Captain?

Yuri: (sighs) I guess it’s true you can get attached to some people if you travel around with them for long enough.
Maybe you can, I’d just pitch him off the ship. Maybe without the benefit of a spacesuit.

Thomas: Can I take that as a yes?!

Yuri: Sure, why not? But I’m warning you. I’m still going to work you hard.

Thomas: I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Lennox: All right, Captain, I’ll count you to keep Agent Veil, or should I say “Thomas”, in line.

Yuri: Okay. Hope to see you again soon.

With that, we both go our separate ways, and the crew has a new mission – to find the pirates’ secret route and use it to bypass the ZR 2’s firing line.

As an aside, Albert Zachman is ranked 12th most famous pirate, apparently.

Before leaving, we head to the bar to talk with our friends.

>>Tavern
>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Franny: The ZR 2, on top of that the Taurus? It’s enough to make a gal’s head go spinnin’!

Thomas: That’s a combo you’d only expect from Orders. I got a feeling this ain’t gonna end in just one battle.

Yuri: True, but if we can just make it through this, the Galactic Federation will finally be unified. Keep up the good work.

Thomas: If you say so, Captain.

Conversation #2
Alik: I-It’s true the Taurus Is a p-powerful battle fortress. B-But it’s also true that the enemy mistakenly believes n-no one would possibly launch an all-out attack against them.

Yuri: Are you suggesting there’s some sort of weakness we could take advantage of?

Alik: Y-Yes. After all, sp-space fortresses lack mobility. Without an adequate fleet to defend it, it’s unable to operate to its tr-true potential. Th-There is a way to destroy it, but that would require getting in close.

Yuri: Well, if you think so, Alik, that’s good enough for me.

With that, a new path in Area 3 has opened up. The ZR 2 has also apparently pulled back, as it’s not instant suicide to  travel to the right-most of the linked empty zones in Area 3. The left one... that’s still instant death.

Travelling to the new empty sector, we find a convenient asteroid field.

Thomas: Director Lennox said that smuggling ship was seen somewhere around here.

Yuri: Kira, are you picking up anything in the area?

Kira: Nothing at the moment. No signs of any ships even passing through recently.

Semias: Well, that’s because it’s a smuggling ship. They probably have a tracking avoidance device equipped.

Kira: Well, this may take some time, but I’m going to switch to directional scanning. Franny, could you give me a hand?

Franny: Sure, no problemo.

The bridge falls silent except for the sound of Franny Porolo’s and Kira’s fingers busily tapping on control panels.

Franny: Bingo! Yuri, there’s a small transport ship at 1020! It’s gotta be those smugglers!

Yuri: Okay, set a course for those coordinates! Let’s get on top of them before they notice what’s happening!

We’re now in combat with a transport. This can probably throw a lot of players who are used to just blowing everything away – our goal was actually just to scare them, and having a fleet show up does so nicely. You’re then supposed to back off and escape combat, then tail them while they run for it.

Torlo: Aw, c’mon! There ain’t no reason for us to run away from these guys. I mean, they don’t even have any decent weapons!

Yuri: We’re not running away. We’re going to let them do their business as usual so we can track all of their movements. If it all goes well, they’ll end up showing us the way to the secret starlane.

Tatiana: That sounds like a good plan.

Yuri: Kira, do you think you can track them?

Kira: It shouldn’t be a problem. There isn’t much background noise in this sector. Once we lock on, we shouldn’t lose them.

Yuri: Okay, I’m counting on you then.

Time passes as we track the smuggler.

Kira: Ah…

Kira is staring intently at the radar screen while making minute adjustments to the search area. Suddenly, she lets out a soft cry of surprise, as if she has found something.

Tatiana: What is it, Kira?

Kira: Hold on. I’ll run a visual check.

Franny: Whoa! Did that asteroid just swallow up that ship?!

Kira: No, there’s not even supposed to be an asteroid there!

Franny: Whaddya mean by that? I can see it right there!

Kira: I’m not picking up anything on the radar, though. But our sensors are picking up a strange gravitational distortion.

Franny: Gravitational distortion?

Yuri: And that means…?

Aminda: Kira, could you bring up that screen again?

Kira: All right.

Aminda: Perfect. Now, you see that small point of light next to the asteroid? Zoom in on it.

Kira: …

Aminda: Ah, I thought just as much!

Yuri: What did you think?

Aminda: It’s a deflector buoy! It generates gravitational distortions that result in what’s known as a gravitational lens. Simply put, it’s projecting a huge image of a nearby asteroid here.

Thomas: You mean that asteroid we see is like a hologram or something?

Aminda: Exactly. And they’re using it to disguise the entrance to the secret starlane.

Yuri: You don’t say… Zachman sure knows how to cover all his bases!

With that, we open up a new path to Area 4, skirting past the ZR 2’s scanners.

Spoiler: Launching the Assault (click to show/hide)

Kira: Yuri, I’ve added data for a new starlane to our chart.

You have discovered a new starlane!

Yuri: We should be able to close in on the Taurus now.

Semias: Time will be our greatest hurdle.

Yuri: Right. And then there’s Sankt and Lord Roth. I don’t think they’ll be taken out that easily, but you never know.

Meanwhile, in the Elson Star System Sector…

Orders has deployed its fleet across the sector’s entire 800,000 plus kilometers. The Zelleron, flagship of the Orders fleet commanded by Douglas Bernard, is blocking the Regeinlandic fleet’s forward advance.

Bernard: Sankt… Damn him! So he wouldn’t take the bait?

Kitson: No, sir. We tried a number of feints, but it appears he has no intention of breaking formation.

Bernard: I don’t think he’s gotten wind of the ZR 2, but you never know.

Kitson: Commander, we hold the advantage. Shouldn’t we just attack them? We don’t need Zanetti.

Bernard: That’s where you’re wrong. Our strength can’t be measured by sheer numbers. Our so-called ally nations are simply here out of a sense of duty. The only ones we can truly rely on are the vessels under direct Orders command.

Kitson: Yes, but--
Bernard: Relax, Captain Kitson. It’s still too early to admit defeat. Enemonzo, Zenito and the other turncoat nations are far from feeling secure. After all, they have sent nearly all their defensive forces to this sector, leaving their home sectors early helpless. If this war drags on too long, it will be they who collapse, not us.

Kitson: So you intend to strike back at them swift and hard when the time comes?

Bernard: Exactly. The only wildcard is that Lord Roth character. It still haven’t figured out why he hasn’t shown up at the front yet.
Not the only wildcard…

Baecker: The enemy seems awfully passive. It’s as if they’re waiting for us to strike the first blow.

Roth: You’re probably right. Damn that Bernard! He’s dug in deep and refusing to move.

Sankt: They must really have that super weapon Yuri warned us about.

Roth: Most likely so. And we’re history if they get a chance to use it. But if we let this standoff continue for too long--
Sankt: We’ll lose this war.

Baum: But we’ll never know until we fight! As it stands now, our strength is just about equal to theirs.

Roth: Even with the flat-out efforts of all of our currently available forces, we’re only able to complete with them just enough, Captain Baum. So if it drags on too long, the balance will shift to their side. You see, the high expectations of those who think the momentum is on our side will turn to disappointment as times goes by. And when that happens, more and more nations will start joining the war on their side.

Baum: Hm.

Baecker: Our only hope now is Yuri. He’s heading to destroy that super weapon as we speak.

Roth: He’s never let us down before. (We’re counting on you, Yuri.)
No pressure!

Back in control, we pick up a nearby resource asteroid (Wow, it’s been a while for one of these…) for 1,500 G, before pushing on to Sector 5.

Kira: Yuri, I found a new starlane and planet. I’ll put them up on our chart.

You discovered a new starlane and planet!

If we travel to the other empty sector in Area 5, we’ll stray into the ZR 2’s radar range and be vaporized, so instead we travel to the planet Mensa, which is a few short jumps away from where the ZR 2 and Taurus are lurking.

>>Mensa
Mensa is home to a Phermeon mine and a tavern.

>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: You’re not from around here, are you? Well, as I’m sure you’ve noticed, this isn’t anywhere you’d want to spend any amount of time in. If you’re looking to do some sightseeing, I’d recommend one of the other planets. There’s really nothing to see here.

>>Dangerous-looking man.
Dangerous-looking Man: Psst! Hey, you. Yeah, you. You ever heard of somethin’ called phermeon? If ya happened to have any, I’d be sure to pay ya a nice chunk of G for it.
The deal here is you can pick some up at the mine and sell it to this guy. You gain 5,000G, but lose 500 Fame for supplying the materials for a dangerous poison to a pirate. I decide to not bother, as you earn that same amount in five or so random encounters.

That’s it for this planet, so we head to the empty sector between us and where the ZR 2 is lurking. We come across a few random encounters, but nothing worth worrying about. After that, we turn for the ZR 2 and begin our attack.

Kira: Yuri! There it is! It’s huge!

Yuri: That’s the ZR 2?!

Well, at least we’ll have plenty of company, given those fleets lurking around the ZR 2 and the Taurus.

Thomas: And that massive thing back there behind it is the Taurus!

Torlo: Heh heh! Now we’ve got ‘em right where we want ‘em!

An alarm sounds.

Kira: Ah! They’ve spotted us! The ZR 2’s escort fleet is headed this way! The fleet near the Taurus is on the move, too!

Our allies open a channel to us.

Serreno: Captain, the destruction of the ZR 2 takes top priority. Let me keep that fleet from the Taurus busy while you strike the target!

Yuri: Hm.

We can choose to send Serreno or Dietrich to go deal with them. If we have not recruited someone from the Enemonzo route, sending Serreno sets her recruitment flag for later.

Yuri: Okay, I’m counting on you, Serreno!

Serreno: Roger that. Leave it to me!

The Enemonzo contingent splits off and accelerates to engage the Taurus fleets.

Yuri: Okay, that leaves us to destroy the ZR 2. You’re with me, Schneizer!

Dietrich: Roger!

We hit the first wave of the guard fleet, consisting of a Nebula-class Battleship, escorted by two Liberty-class cruisers and two Bastian 2-class destroyers.

Both sides start the battle by launching fighters, and we immediately dodge and begin building our energy up. The enemy fleet has the two cruisers and the battleship in front with the destroyers behind them. We focus on the two cruisers first, destroying one and going back into dodge mode before the enemy fleet can respond. When they finally do fire, it’s with a barrage attack that we neatly avoid.

We destroy the second cruiser and hit the battleship with two volleys before building back into the red. They’re evading, so we hold off attacking until he leaves evasion to fire a normal volley. We immediately respond with a barrage, unleashing an endless stream of lasers from all ships, which is enough to blow the battleship to pieces.

This leaves only the two destroyers, and a single volley and our fighters are more than enough to kill them both.

With the battle done, we’re brought to the map screen, where we can choose to return to Mensa for repairs or push onward. We only took light damage from the last battle, so we’ll be continuing our attack in the next update.

[Hanzoku]

Assault on Orders Part 3
New Characters: Garners
New Ships: ZR2 (M), Taurus (M), Independence (CG)
New Fighters:

Spoiler: Superweapons and Superstars (click to show/hide)

Where we had last left off, we had defeated the first of the two fleets guarding the ZR 2. We only took minor damage doing so, so we continue on to attack the second fleet. We’re up against the same setup as before – one Nebula-class battleship, two Liberty-class cruisers and two Bastian 2-class destroyers.

The battle goes about the same as before. All of our ships are damaged to one degree or another, but we’re roughly intact.

Dietrich: Captain, we’ve eliminated all of the ZR 2’s escorts!

Yuri: Okay, our target’s the ZR 2 itself now! Ready all guns! Fire!

Huh, it’s not like Infinite Space to leave a boss-battle unfought.

Torlo: Yeah! We blew that thing to bits!

Yuri: Kira, patch me through to Vice Admiral Sankt!

Kira: Roger!

Baecker: Vice Admiral Sankt, Yuri has succeeded in destroying the enemy’s super weapon!

Sankt: he did it! Lord Roth!

Roth: yes, yes, I know. My Royal Fleet will secure an escape route as promised.

Sankt: We’re counting on you! Rear Admiral Beyer, inform all fleets! Commence supporting fire by the Heavy Artillery Fleet at 0140! Then, launch an all-out attack against the enemy with the Royal Fleet in the lead!

Beyer: yes, sir!

The officers hastily disperse from the bridge of the flagship Dominanz, which had served as the mission’s command center. Luitger Sankt mutters under his breath as he watches them leave.

Sankt: Now to deal with the Taurus. I hope we’re not finally asking too much of him.

With the cutscene complete, we’re back in control again. Now, technically we’re supposed to head straight for the Taurus, but it’s not going anywhere. Instead, we return to Mensa to repair, and then head back to the empty sectors we couldn’t travel through earlier, due to the ZR 2.

In Area 4, we open up a new starlane.

Kira: Yuri, I found a new starlane. I’ll put it up on our chart.

You discovered a new starlane!

That new ‘starlane’ is actually the nearby world of Rastaban.

>>Rastaban
Rastaban is home to a module design company, where we pick up a Fire Control Room Lv7, Maintenance Room Lv5, Crew’s Mess Lv2, War Room Lv3, Nav Sim Room Lv2 and Nature Dome Lv2 modules.

Once done, we go and visit the Tavern
>>Tavern
Tatiana: Wow, this place is packed!

Tatiana Agarkov cries out in surprise as soon as she passes through the tavern’s door. Inside, Yuri and company find the place filled to the brim with customers who seem excited and fidgety.

Torlo: Hey, check it out. There’s a couple o’ kids singing back there.

Yuri: Hm?

Two girls can be seen singing on a plain-looking stage that has been set up near the back of the tavern. It seems like everyone is here to watch them perform.

Garners: Lick, lick, lick! It’s a galactic popsicle on a stick!
Drip, drip, drip! Your smile’s makin’ it melt quick!
And when it’s done, oh yeah baby, it’s time for another one!

Yuri: …
I… yeah. I agree once again.

Torlo: Man, what is this Grus? My brain already feels like it’s turnin’ to mush. Ugh.

Several of the tavern customers nearby turn to glare defensively at Torlo Adkin when they hear his complaints. As Torlo quickly ducks his head, embarrassed and blushing, Thomas Veil starts shouting excitedly beside him.

Thomas: Hey! That’s the GG Girls, the hottest galactic pop duo in all the LMC!
…You would be the one to know, of course you would.

Franny: galactic singing idols? Yer kidding me!

Thomas: Yeah! Don’t tell me you’ve never heard of the Garner twins?! You know, Briana Garner and Callie Garner?! Their group GG Girls shot straight to the top when they debuted! C’mon, Franny, you know this song, don’t you?

Franny: Wrong. I was locked up on that prison asteroid, remember? (mutters) Glad I got something out of it.

Thomas: Oh, right.

Franny: What I wanna know is why you know so much about them. You don’t actually like this crap, do you? I mean, a preteen girl group? C’mon!

Thomas: What? Something wrong with enjoyin’ finely produced music?
Of course you’re a closet lolicon.

Franny: Eeeuuuuw! I just lost all respect for you, Thomas.
Really? I never had any.

Thomas: Huh?! B-B-But… I still don’t see what’s wrong with it. What about you, Kira? You’re with me, right?

Kira: …

Kira looks away, uncomfortable, and remains turned in that direction. Thomas falters, words failing him for a change.

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: To think that the GG Girls would actually come to this tavern! I get all choked up just thinking about it! After all, we’re just a no-name, two-bit joint. Oh, and look at this! We already have an autographed picture of them hanging on our wall! Sweet, huh?

>>Talk to the fan.
Fan: Are you here to see the GG Girls, too? Well, I’m a Callie fan, hands down! I mean, that outfit and her heavenly smile make her look like an angel! Not to mention that she sings like one!
Don’t make Yuri hurt you, lolicon.

>>Talk  to the Garner Twins.
The reason we came here now is that doing so before we blow the Taurus to Grus sets these girls’ recruitment flag. Their music is terrible, but you’ll see when we recruit them why we wanted them.

Thomas: hey, hey, look! The GG Girls are headed this way!

Yuri: Hm?

For some reason, the GG Girls head straight for Yuri’s table when they are done performing.

Briana: Hey, we heard you’re like, some kinda big-shot captain. Is that right?

Yuri: Who, me?

Callie: Yeah, you. Who d’ya think?!

Yuri: …

Briana: Come on, be nice, Callie! I mean, they could be fans, and if they’re not, they will be someday! Remember, nice ‘n’ sunny! Always nice ‘n’ sunny! I’m sorry, mister, and so’s she.

Yuri: No problem. And you don’t have to keep up the nice and sunny charade for me. Now, what can I do for you?

Briana: Actually, we wanna hitch a ride on your ship with ya. We figured you owe us big time, ‘cause you scared away the Libertasian ship that was gonna take us back to our agent’s office.

Tatiana: Huh? Are you two Libertasians?

Callie: nah. We just got a gig here performing for the soldiers.

Tatiana: For soldiers? You two?

Callie: Yeah! Is there something wrong with that?

Torlo: Well, yeah, I’d say there was. Don’t soldiers like their pop divas a little more, you know, mature?

Briana: Hey, we go wherever our agent tells us to! We don’t have time for thinking ‘n’ stuff.
Callie: Anyway, if anyone’s got something wrong with them, it’s not us. It’s those stupid Libertasian soldiers!

Torlo: Heh, you got a point there!

Briana: Well, are you gonna give us a lift or what?

Yuri: It’s way too dangerous out there right now. We’re in the middle of a military operation.

Callie: Fine. Then we’ll just, like, wait ‘til you’re done and stuff.
Yuri: Wait, I never said--
Briana: Great! It’s settled, then! We’ll hold you to your promise!
Callie: We know you won’t break it!

Yuri: Would someone mind explaining to me what just happened here?
Two pre-teens managed to bamboozle you into giving them a free lift, that’s what.

Spoiler: Taking the Bull By the Horns (click to show/hide)

With our little side jaunt done, we return to Mensa for a quick refresh, and then begin the attack on the Taurus.

Evans: I didn’t expect a fleet to launch a direct attack like this. It seems we placed too much confidence in the ZR 2.

Zanetti: …

Evans: Who’s their commander?

First Officer: Our reports say it’s a captain by the name of Yuri.

Evans: The Special Prisoner? Well that explains it.

First Officer: Chairman Evans, maybe it’s time. You know, to use the Evstafi!

Evans: Hm?

First Officer: I know it’s not complete yet, but I heard it’s about eighty percent functional at this moment. With that mega battleship out on our side, we--
Evans: You fool!

First Officer: Huh?!

Evans: that’s the Federation’s last resort against the invaders! It’s not meant to protect Orders or any other organization!

First Officer: … Please forgive me.

Evans: Chairman Zanetti.

Zanetti: Yes?

Evans: I’m grateful for all the Orsino Foundation has done for us thus far. However, we will be taking it from here. I want you to leave the combat zone immediately.

Zanetti: … Good luck.

Saverio Zanetti gives a deep bow and then exits the bridge, all the while the sound of his tapping cane trailing behind him. As he watches Zanetti leave, Daniel Evans rises from his chair for the first time in this battle.

Evans: Listen to me! The Taurus must not fall while Bernard’s fleet is still engaged in the final battle! The enemy are few in number! Our fortress will swat them down like flies! Prepare to engage the enemy! Ready the mass drive cannons to fire!

Kira: There’s a battle raging dead ahead! It’s Lieutenant Commander Serreno’s fleet!

Yuri: she managed to hold the enemy back. I knew she had it in her. Full speed ahead! She needs backup, now!

Franny: Hold on! Something weird’s going on over on the Taurus.

Yuri: Huh?!

The rings circling the Taurus are the rails for its mass driver weapons, and its lobbing golden-colored rounds at us after accelerating them around the rings sufficiently.

To deadly effect.

Serreno: Ah! Chief, give me a damage assessment!

Chief: Ship functionality is down seventy-seven percent. Maneuverability is gone!

Serreno: What the Grus did they hit us with?

Chief: I’m not sure exactly, but it appears to have been some sort of mass shell weapon.

Yuri opens a comm channel.

Yuri: Lieutenant Commander Serreno! Are you okay?!

Serreno: Forgive me, Captain. I’m afraid we’re out of commission! But don’t worry about us! Take out the Taurus while you can! I’ll have the rest of my fleet support you!

Yuri: Roger that! We’re going in! To Grus with that defense network of theirs! We’ll send a rescue team as soon as it’s all over. You’ll have to hang tight until then.

Serreno: Heh heh. Don’t worry, I’m used to it. Men always seem to keep me waiting for something. The Taurus is all yours, Captain!

Indeed it is, but first we have its defending fleet to cut through. The first battle is a Nebula-class Battleship, a Liberty-class cruiser, a Magellan-class cruiser and two Bastian-class destroyers. We win, but take a decent mauling doing so. For once, I let game mechanics trump suspense, and we retreat to Mensa to make repairs before taking on the second set of guard.

The second set is a Nebula-class battleship, a new Independence-class cruiser, a Liberty-class cruiser and two Bastian 2-class destroyers.

We get lucky on this battle and defeat them without taking any real damage to speak of, so we go straight ahead into the boss battle for this chapter.

We’re up against the Taurus-class space station. Alik gave us some hints earlier in his conversation – the station’s weakness is its terrible mobility. It simply can’t dictate the battle range, which means that we can totally nerf this boss. How, you ask? As long as we’re close enough, it’s locked out from firing its weapons, as the mass drivers need a certain amount of range to fire.

We launch fighters, dodge and start approaching. Dodging was the right decision, as the Taurus opens with a barrage attack. By then, we’ve closed to spitting distance. Neither of us has weapons that can fire effectively, but we can safely wait at this distance while our fighters whittle down the battle station. As soon as we’re dodging with a full charge, we pull back until all of our weapons are effective. The Taurus can’t resist using its full energy bar for a barrage, which we avoid and immediately counter with a Final Roar-assisted barrage before coming close again to hide.

After repeating this a few times, we win the battle, and the camera switches to a cutscene.

Evans: So it’s come to this. Still, somebody’s got to force this galaxy to band together if there’s going to be any hope of resisting Lugovalos. With my defeat, that role now rests squarely on the one they call the Special Prisoner. Godspeed to you, Yuri.

The screen whites out as the Taurus goes critical.

For beating the Taurus, we gain 200 fame, 550 XP and 34,560G.

Yuri: Mission accomplished. Kira, patch me through to Vice Admiral Sankt.

Kira: All right.

Roth: Ah ha ha ha! Look at them coming at us! It seems everyone wants to bask in the glory that is Lord Roth, including the enemy!

Baecker: We’re jutting out too far! We can’t hold out like this!

Roth: Yes, yes, don’t you think I know that, Nele? But we’re going to have to try. We need the enemy to focus on us to give our allied strike force more freedom to move.

Baecker: Hartwig! The Kreusser was given to you personally by the king, and you’re going to let it get blown to bits?!

Roth: It’s a small price to pay if we win this battle.

Despite his brave words, the expression on Lord Roth’s face appears forlorn. But Nele Baecker is now at a loss for words at his firm resolve.

Baecker: Hartwig…

Roth: …

Baecker: Hartwig?

Roth: That’s strange.

Baecker: What? What is it?

Lord Roth responds by calling up a map of the combat zone on the screen in front of them.

Roth: Look, Nele. The enemy’s flank formations are in disarray.

Baecker: Is it the pressure we’re exerting from our side?

Roth: No. Their movement indicates something else. It looks like they[‘re trying to flee from the combat zone.

Baecker: Has something happened we don’t know about?

Roth: Hm.

Baecker: …

Roth: Wait a second.

Baecker: What?

Roth: Heh. Heh heh heh…. Yes… That must be it! Nele, this battle is ours!

Baecker: What are you talking about?

Roth: It’s Yuri! He did it!

Baecker: he did?! Then--

Roth: Notify the entire Royal Fleet! We’re going to strike right at the heart of the enemy formation!

Baecker: Um…

Roth: What’s wrong with you, Nele? Snap out of it!

Baecker: Y-Yes… Yes, sir!

Bernard: This can’t be! Is it true?! Did they actually succeed in destroying the Taurus?!

Kitson: Yes, sir. And initial reports indicate Chairman Evans was still on board. There is no way he could have survived. As four allies on the flanks, they’re ignoring orders and starting to flee. So, now they show their true colors.

Bernard: Bah! We don’t need flimsy ships from third-rate countries.

Operator A: Combat zones 14, 21 and 22 have been overrun by the Regeinlandic fleet.
Operator B: Combat zones 30 and 31, too! We can’t hold out any longer!

Bernard: Grr…

The ship shakes from an impact.

Bernard: What now?

Kitson: The enemy… It’s their Royal Fleet! They’re coming right at us!

Bernard: Heh heh… It’s that wretch, Lord Roth. I can smell him!

With the death of Orders Chairman Daniel Evans, morale plummets within their fleet. Unable to hold the line, Orders loses a third of its ships in an all-out assault by Regeinland, forcing it to withdraw.

The Battle of Hinwald has ended in an overwhelming victory for Regeinland and its allies.

Meanwhile…

Dietrich: Captain, the rescue operation has safely recovered Lieutenant Commander Serreno and her crew. And, and I just heard from Vice Admiral Sankt. He would like for you to head straight for Federation Headquarters now.

Yuri: Federation Headquarters?

Dietrich: Yes. It seems Assembly Member Weimar has obtained the necessary authorization from President Brian.

Semias: Well, Regeinland and the Interplanetary Assembly will now finally sit on top of the Federation food chain, so to speak.

Franny: So, does this mean the Federation is gonna finally get its act together and start getting ready for the Lugovalian invasion?

Yuri: We’re about to find out.

Spoiler: Gathering Up Loose Ends (click to show/hide)

We only have a few things left to do before we finish up this chapter.

The first thing is to pick up the pop idols that we promised we’d bring home. Along the way, we run into a few encounters – instead of Orders, we’re now facing Galactic Federation Pirates, who have a more broad selection of ships, but generally less ships in combat.

>>Rastaban
>>Tavern
As soon as we step inside the tavern, we’re ambushed.

Briana: What took you so long?!
Callie: Yeah!

The moment Yuri and company enter the tavern, the Garner twins come racing over to Yuri’s side, full of youthful vigor.

Briana: The war’s, like, totally over, so what about that promise you made to take us home? Are we going now?

Yuri: Oh right, my promise. So, where exactly is your home anyway?

Briana: Merylgild, duh! Ever heard of it? It’s where the Federation’s based.

Thomas: Oh, this is perfect, huh, Captain?! That’s exactly where we’re headed! We can give ‘em a lift there, can’t we?

Yuri: I guess so.

Thomas: It’s settled, then! Right this way, little ladies, I’ll show ya ‘round!
There’s going to be an armed guard on them at all times, pervert.

Briana: Sweet! Thanks, Captain!
Callie: Just make sure we get a good room, okay?

Yuri: …

Thomas: Captain, let’s set up an in-ship radio station! And we can have the GG Girls do the DJ honors! It’ll really boost the crew’s morale!

Yuri: Oh, uh, yeah… Lemme think about it for a while.
While drinking heavily. Somewhere near unconsciousness, it might start sounding like a good idea.

The Garner Twins boarded your ship!

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: If I had to pick a favorite in the GG Girls, I’d have to say it’s Briana by far! I can put up with just about anything form those kids of mine, as long as I can enjoy listening to Briana’s sweet, sweet voice!

>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Alik: R-Remnants of Orders’ forces are still close at hand. There are many loose ends to wrap up. W-We should make for Merylgild.

Yuri: Yeah, I know.

Conversation #2
Thomas: Whew. All those battles were starting to get to me. I mean, it was one after another, after another! Man!

Torlo: You can say that again! I just wanna rest up and do a whole lotta nothin’ for a while!

Yuri: I wish I could make that happen, but the enemy isn’t going to wait for us to rest up. We have time to catch our breath, but that’s about it. Then we’ve got to make a bee-line for Merylgild.

Thomas: Damn! I knew you were gonna say that.

Done with Rastaban, we look around Elson, which had been cut off earlier due to the fleet battle raging nearby.

>>Elson
All this planet has going for it is a tavern.
>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: I swear I’ve seen that old man over there somewhere before. Now, where was it? Hm…

>>Talk to the old man.
Hector Balis notices an old man drinking quietly in a corner of the tavern. Something seems to dawn on Hector, and he hurries over to where the old man is sitting, with a surprised look on his face.
I think Beleko had his name changed somewhere in the script, and they missed this reference, because who’s actually talking but…  Meteo Beleko.

Beleko: Sorry to disturb you, but aren’t you Dr. Yab, the most renowned physician in the entire universe?

Yab: That’s right! You have found the famous Dr. Yab. How lucky for you!

Beleko: I knew it! You know, your great name has made it as far as Spetses in the SMC! The chances of running into you must be astronomical. It’s almost as if it were destined to be! Perhaps you were meant to join our crew. What would you say to that?

Yab: Hrmmm. I’m afraid these old bones would prefer to remain footloose and fancy free for the rest of my days. However, if any of your sick bay crew need some extra training, I’d be more than happy to help you with that.

Yuri: By all means, please do! We would be very grateful.

We can choose who to train. Kuchin, our chief surgeon is the logical choice…

Kuchn’s Medicine skill increased by 2!

Yab: Your medical capabilities should have improved at least a bit now. So now, I must bid you adieu.

With that, Dr. Yab stumbles out the tavern door before anyone has a chance to stop him.
Well, that was just… odd.

>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: Lately, there’s been a rumor going around about a really famous doctor who’s come to visit us here. They say he’s been going around here and there, treating the soldiers that have been wounded in this never-ending fighting.

The final thing we do is pick up a resource asteroid near Elson for 1,000G, and then we take the Void Gate to the central sector of the Galactic Federation. It’s time to bring this war to a close and prepare for Lugovalos.

That wraps up another chapter of Infinite Space. Overall, I think that if things had turned out a little differently, Yuri would have gotten along well with Evans. He wasn’t a bad guy, per se – in fact, he had the same goals as Yuri. The problem was that they ended up on opposite sides of the war, and Libertas’ insistence on burying its head in the sand (and imprisoning Yuri for ten years) didn’t endear them to him.

[Hanzoku]

Spoiler: Destroyers (click to show/hide)

Admiralo S B-class Destroyer
Length: 265m, Width: 55m, Height: 75m

The most commonly employed destroyer in the Dominion of Spetses. While its main role is domestic patrol, its overall capabilities are rather low, making this ship unsuitable for critical duties.

Admiralo S A-class Destroyer

An upgraded version of the Admiralo SB, but now with more firepower, a feature typically lacking in Nova Nacion ships. It is used as the standard warship for important duties, such as escorting high-ranking officers.

Admiralo-class Destroyer

The standard Nova Nacion forces destroyer. It is equipped with both anti-ship and anti-air missiles.


Bastian-class Destroyer
Length: 340m, Width: 80m, Height: 60m

With its excellent basic design, the Bastian is commonly seen throughout Libertas. Several variations are also available. An all-purpose ship, it is widely used by civilians as well.


Bastian 2-class Destroyer
Length: 370m, Width: 120m, Height: 50m

Developed to both promote the unification of the LMC and to counter Lugovalos, this destroyer is a remodel of the Bastian. Although small, its outstanding firepower makes it a key force in battle.


Churruca-class Destroyer
Length: 370m, Width: 110m, Height: 70m

A high-speed destroyer of the Escondidon government forces. It can act as a key force in small battles, and can also be used for escort and patrol duties.


Derzky-class Destroyer
Length: 340m, Width: 100m, Height: 70m

A standard destroyer employed by the Central Elgavan Forces.

Derzky Loc-class Destroyer

The standard destroyer employed by Elgavan regional forces.


Gnevny-class Destroyer
Length: 280m, Width: 80m, Height: 80m

A destroyer that acts as a flagship for the Novgorod Pirates. It can house up to nine fighters.
Luckily, the ones we meet early forgot their fighter escort.

Gnevny A-class Destroyer

A remodeled version of Gnevny, a Novgorod Pirates destroyer, overhauled by Argun Narevin's men. Used as a flagship when Argun's underlings go on raids for plunder.


Impavido-class Destroyer
Length: 410m, Width: 180m, Height: 170m

An Enemonzon destroyer used for internal defense. It is a standard warship that makes full use of Orsino’s reliable technology.


Kalliope-class Destroyer
Length: 290m, Width: 90m, Height: 44m

The standard destroyer issued to low-ranking officers of the Kalymnian Forces. It is used extensively for foreign maneuvers.


Najtingalo-class Destroyer
Length: 320m, Width: 150m, Height: 100m

A standard Nacio National Defense Space Force destroyer. A small-scale warship designed to be used for a wide variety of tasks, both domestically and abroad.


Novik-class Destroyer
Length: 300m, Width: 60m, Height: 110m

An overhauled version of the Gnevny that Argun Narevin developed on Medyn. It doesn't have a catapult, however.

Novik A-class Destroyer

A remodeled version of the Novik, a Novgorod Pirates destroyer overhauled by Argun Narevin's men. Used as a flagship when Argun's underlings go on raids for plunder.


Otlichny-class Destroyer
Length: 320m, Width: 140m, Height: 90m

An upgraded version of the Perekop destroyer. It has improved durability, and is equipped with the current government's weapons, too.


Orfey-class Destroyer
Length: 340m, Width: 120m, Height: 80m

A destroyer equipped with missiles. It is employed by the Central Elgavan Forces.

Orfey Loc-class Destroyer

A destroyer equipped with missiles. It is employed by Elgavan regional forces.


Perekop-class Destroyer
Length: 310m, Width: 120m, Height: 70m

A civilian transport ship remodeled into a destroyer. Its hull durability and combat capabilities aren't quite up to the demands of battle.


Plugilo-class Destroyer
Length: 320m, Width: 200m, Height: 40m

A standard Zenitonian forces high-speed destroyer. The Plugilo functions by linking to the neural operating system (NOS) of the command ship.


Rapido-class Destroyer
Length: 350m, Width: 120m, Height: 120m

The principal ship of Escondidon insurgents, it is often used for anti-government guerrilla activities. With its excellents peed and mobility, it is perfect for hit-and-run tactics.


Seitz-class Destroyer
Length: 360m, Width: 120m, Height: 100m

A small-scale warship, it is the most common ship in the Regeinlandic Space Armored Fleet that defends the Alpha Quadrant.


Selene-class Destroyer
Length: 270m, Width: 80m, Height: 110m

A Kalymnos Sector Security Agency high-speed destroyer. With permission from the Security Agency, private citizens are allowed the purchase this model as well.


Skoryy-class Destroyer
Length: 360m, Width: 120m, Height: 95m

A destroyer remodeled by the Central Elgavan Forces to make it more suitable for ridding the area of pirates.


Themis-class Destroyer
Length: 260m, Width: 95m, Height: 43m

A small, civlian escort ship that accompanies transport and passenger ships. It is sometimes even employed by the Kalymnos military.

Themis K-class Destroyer

The standard destroyer used by lower-level Kreios Pirates. Much feared by the masses, this ship is often seen in groups, ganging up on civilian ships.

Spoiler: Cruisers (click to show/hide)

Aragon-class Cruiser
Length: 640m, Width: 250m, Height: 160m

A cruiser equipped with solid ammo, it takes full advantage of the technology of the Escondidon government forces. Its low anti-air capabilities, the drawback of electromagnetic cannons, is made up for with missile cannons.


Askold-class Cruiser
Length: 450m, Width: 170m, Height: 120m

A standard cruiser employed by the Central Elgavan Forces. A well-blanaced model that is available for civilian use as well.

Askold Loc-class Cruiser

A cruiser used as a flagship by high-ranking officers of Elgavan regional forces. Highly customizable the captain can take advantage of a wide range of remodeling options.


Chloris-class Cruiser
Length: 580m, Width: 140m, Height: 110m

A Kalymnos Sector Security Agency cruiser often used as a flagship. Its combat power is similar to that of a battleship. The Kreios Pirates, however, have leaked its design blueprints to the general public.


Eudora B-class Cruiser
Length: 630m, Width: 190m, Height: 90m

After suffering defeat at Yuri's hands, Balik plots revenge with this revamped version of a Kalymnian heavy cruiser.

Eudora-class Cruiser

A typical Kalymnian Forces heavy cruiser. Its firepower rivals that of a battleship. It is employed for a wide range of duties, such as escorting transport ships and patrolling the area's sectors.

Eudora K-class Cruiser

A heavy cruiser used to defend the Spider Web, a Kreios Pirates base. It makes use of Kalymnian military technology to produce excellent firepower.


Eudora 2-class Cruiser
Length: 650m, Width: 190m, Height: 90m

A heavy cruiser whose design underwent a complete overhaul by the Kalymnos Forces in preparation for the war against Nova Nacio. With newly-boosted radar and fire control features, the Eudora 2 boasts heightened anti-air capabilities.


Gluck-class Cruiser
Length: 900m, Width: 420m, Height: 210m

A high-speed heavy cruiser of the Regeinlandic Royal Fleet. Highly maneuverable and can be loaded with fighters. A version equipped with advanced energy-detecting radar is also in the works.


Gromki B-class Cruiser
Length: 450m, Width: 180m, Height: 190m

A cruiser used by Balik, one of the bosses of the Novgorod Pirates that infest every area of the Interplanetary Union of Elgava. Its improved missile weapons overwhelm the Elgavan military, whose vessels are vulnerable to solid-ammo attacks.

Gromki A-class Cruiser

A cruiser used by Argun Narevin, a Novgorod Pirates boss. It inflicts damage on the enemy through relentless solid ammo attacks.

Gromki-class Cruiser

A cruiser with improved missile weapons. Now that the technology for dealing with beam weapons is so advancd, physical projectiles seem to pose more of a threat.


Homilius-class Cruiser
Length: 720m, Width: 290m, Height: 150m

A cruiser designed exclusively for the Regeinlandic Royal Fleet. Its capabilities are one rank above ordinary cruisers.


Ilithyia-class Cruiser
Length: 550m, Width: 170m, Height: 140m

A big, civilian escort ship that accompanies large-scale transport ships to keep them safe. With its outstanding mobility and durability, it is sometimes even employed by the Kalymnos military.

Ilithyia K A-class Cruiser

An upgraded version of the Ilithyia K B. Regularly used by bosses of the Kreios Pirates and often used for critical missions.

Ilithyia K B-class Cruiser

A cruiser favored by veteran Kreios Pirates. This versatile ship can play a variety of roles, such as patrol ship, escort for bosses and even flagship.


Independence-class Cruiser
Length: 860m, Width: 290m, Height: 150m

A cruiser developed to both promote the unification of the LMC and counter the Lugovalian Empire. It looks like a simple remodel of the Liberty, but it is actually a thorough redesign with all-new features.


Junkyard MS-class Cruiser
Length: 780m, Width: 550m, Height: 180m

A heavy cruiser favored by the pirates who infest the Magellanic Stream. It is usally used alone rather than as part of a fleet.  It boasts the advanced technology of the LMC and high-level radar capabilities.

Junkyard-class Cruiser

A standard heavy cruiser favored by the adventurers who gather in the Xeos Belt Union.


Kajto-class Cruiser
Length: 920m, Width: 550m, Height: 175m

A ship that takes the vanguard in fleet battles, the Kajto specializes in attack. With so many weapons installed, its defense is rather low, so it might be best to pair it with a command ship.


Kamarado-class Cruiser
Length: 680m, Width: 380m, Height: 230m

A ship designed to escort the Kolonio carrier. It compensates for the carrier's low anti-ship capabilities, and provides advanced radar-control support.

Kamarado S A-class Cruiser
A heavy cruiser from Mateo Beleko's fleet. It compensates for its flagship's low anti-ship capabilities, and provides support for carriers with its excellent radar control.

Kamarado-class Cruiser
A ship designed to escort the Kolonio carrier. It compensates for the carrier's low anti-ship capabilities, and provides advanced radar-control support.


Kamarado S B-class Cruiser
Length: 680m, Width: 380m, Height: 230m

A heavy cruiser issued to the officers of the Dominion of Spetses. It is used for a wide range of duties, from area patrol to carrier escort.


Kraus-class Cruiser
Length: 870m, Width: 270m, Height: 320m

A Regeinlandic forces heavy cruiser that performs sector patrol along with the Seitz-class destroyer. Its firepower rivals that of a battleship.


Liberty-class Cruiser
Length: 750m, Width: 145m, Height: 130m

The most highly-deployed cruiser throughout the Libertasian Forces divisions. With an excellent basic design, it is used both domestically and abroad as a flagship.


Magellan-class Cruiser
Length: 605m, Width: 165m, Height: 65m

A typical Libertasian Forces light cruiser. With a highly-dependable basic design, it is used for a variety of duties.


Misio-class Cruiser
Length: 500m, Width: 220m, Height: 95m

A standard Zenitonian forces light cruiser. The Misio functions by linking to the neural operating system (NOS) of the command ship.


Patrolo-class Cruiser
Length: 760m, Width: 320m, Height: 210m

A heavy cruiser-class warship designed to escort carrier-type ships.


Rurik-class Cruiser
Length: 450m, Width: 150m, Height: 180m

A cruiser exclusive to the Novgorod Pirates. With great armor and mobility, it can pull up alongside an enemy unit to pillage it.

Rurik A-class Cruiser

A variation on the Rurik, a Novgorod Pirates cruiser. It is commonly used when Argun Narevin's men kidnap women and children.


Scheidt-class Cruiser
Length: 670m, Width: 380m, Height: 240m

A ship deployed to safeguard carriers. A high-performance vessel on par with cruisers.
I would hope so, since it’s classed as one.


Sodality MS-class Cruiser
Length: 690m, Width: 370m, Height: 210m

A cruiser favored by the pirates who infest the Magellanic Stream. It is usually used alone rather than as part of a fleet. Built with the advanced technology of the LMC, it can easily overpower SMC ships.

Sodality-class Cruiser

A standard cruiser favored by the adventurers who gather in the Xeos Belt Union.


Volos-class Cruiser
Length: 400m, Width: 60m, Height: 155m

A Kalymnos Sector Security Agency high-speed cruiser. With permission from the Security Agency, private citizens are allowed to purchase this model as well.


Zephyr-class Cruiser
Length: 460m, Width: 125m, Height: 55m

A typical Kalymnian Forces light cruiser. While it doesn't have quite the firepower of the Eudora, it is still expected to perform well in military operations aboard.


Zara C-class Cruiser
Length: 620m, Width: 290m, Height: 210m

The ship of Cico, a young man on a quest for strength. Remodeled for additional power, it has outstanding firepower and mobility despite its medium size.

Zara-class Cruiser
The Enemonzon Forces light cruiser most often used for national defense. It is a patrol ship that is especially heavily deployed around the capital.

Spoiler: Battleships (click to show/hide)

Absoluta-class Battleship
Length: 1800m, Width: 200m, Height: 530m

A standard Zenitonian forces command vessel. Lightly equipped, but has the full range of command and communications installations. Its unique shape is due to its focus on communications functions, and is designed to minimize radio interference.


Aglo-class Battleship
Length: 970m, Width: 450m, Height: 500m

The latest model of battleship, designed by Nacion forces to counter Lugovalos. Its firepower may not compare to some, but it incorporates all of the latest Nacion technology.


Agrell-class Battleship
Length: 1300m, Width: 500m, Height: 390m

With both excellent firepower and durability, the Agrell has long been used by Regeinlandic forces as its main warship. After the existence of Lugovalos was discovered, however, the Agrell’s short-comings became obvious.
But not clearly spelled out.


Borodino-class Battleship
Length: 800m, Width: 240m, Height: 140m

The only battleship available for purchase inside the Interplanetary Union of Elgava. It is used as a flagship by high-ranking officials of the Central Elgavan Forces. Its blueprints are only available to the public with the military's permission.


Ciscar-class Battleship
Length: 1350m, Width: 350m, Height: 360m

A battleship of the Escondidon anti-government forces, developed thanks to the increased aid from Adis. It is equipped with gravity-sphere cannons that use Adisian technology.


Corsair-class Battleship
Length: 2200m, Width: 550m, Height: 700m

Valantin the Pirate's ship.  It is equipped with its own void gate frame, making it possible for the Corsair to warp whenever and wherever Valantin wants. It is also loaded with a high-stream blaster, a type of anti-matter cannon, as its main weapon.


Crepuscolo-class Battleship
Length: 1200m, Width: 460m, Height: 420m

A pirate flagship employed far and wide throughout the Galactic Federation. It was built with advanced cruising capabilities to make it suitable for use in the Xeos Belt Union and Libertas.


Erebos-class Battleship
Length: 1000m, Width: 910m, Height: 720m

The flagship of an infamous pirate boss. It has large beam cannons and the capacity to load great quantities of solid ammo, in addition to great anti-ship fire control. But on the other hand, its armor is rather weak, and it needs an escort ship at all times to compensate for its low durability.


Fellowship MS-class Battleship
Length: 910m, Width: 880m, Height: 200m

A battleship favored by the pirates who infest the Magellanic Stream. It is usually used alone rather than as part of a fleet. It boasts the advanced technology of the LMC and overwhelming firepower.

Fellowship-class Battleship

A standard battleship favored by the adventurers who gather in the Xeos Belt Union.


Furor-class Battleship
Length: 910m, Width: 330m, Height: 300m

A ship favored as a flagship by anti-government guerrillas. Its radar control technology, contributed by Adis, gives it excellent fleet-leadership capabilities.


Ianthe-class Battleship
Length: 810m, Width: 200m, Height: 110m

A newly-designed battleship built to replace the aging Pallas. All of the old Pallas features were fully overhauled in preparation for use against Nova Nacio.


Kreusser-class Battleship
Length: 1850m, Width: 1070m, Height: 330m

Lord Roth’s personal ship and the flagship of the Royal Fleet. It is equipped with an advanced fleet command system. It was at one point the most advanced warship in Regeinland.


Lykourgos-class Battleship
Length: 1100m, Width: 330m, Height: 340m

The personal warship of the pirate Celina Sioufas. Its main battery laser accelerators have several times the power of ordinary laser cannons. Its “black lapulus” armor is made from a black body mineral, resulting in high stealth capabilities.


Nebula-class Battleship
Length: 1300m, Width: 260m, Height: 200m

The Libertasian Forces’ main strength, this has been the go-to battleship for many years. It displays superior performance in all aspects: firepower, mobility, durability and radar control.


Necesa-class Battleship
Length: 720m, Width: 240m, Height: 240m

Nova Nacio's sole battleship, developed by Lanco Warship Manufacturing to counter Kalymnos. Its main battery consists of particle reducers, which are highly accurate but not very powerful.


Pallas-class Battleship
Length: 850m, Width: 250m, Height: 360m

The most popularly used battleship in Kalymnos, the Pallas is an all-around decent ship with an excellent design. But now that the Pallas has become outdated, many are starting to make the switch to the Ianthe.


Pelayo-class Battleship
Length: 1700m, Width: 55m, Height: 660m

A ship with the best attack capabilities of all Escondidon government warships. Six mobile rail cannons ring its cylinder-shaped hull.


Picaroon-class Battleship
Length: 1600m, Width: 1200m, Height: 1300m

With an outline like the bones of an animal, this is the ship of brutally cruel and terrifying pirates. Fightersa re launched from the open spaces around the hull.


Thalia-class Battleship
Length: 700m, Width: 210m, Height: 250m

A Kalymnian battleship built during the Plan R campaign to produce ships capable of countering Nova Nacio. It is equipped with powerful graviton deflectors, giving it incredible anti-beam defenses.


Thalia A-class Battleship
Length: 900m, Width: 360m, Height: 140m

Kalymnos' newest battleship design, developed especially for the war against Nova Nacio.
Despite the name, Abato's ship seems to share more in common with the Ianthe-class then the Thalia-class.

Spoiler: Carriers (click to show/hide)

Ariadne-class Carrier
Length: 640m, Width: 460m, Height: 395m

The ship of Admiral Mateo Beleko of the Dominion of Spetses forces. He and his ship dutifully defend the territory of the feudal lord, Cadmus.


Daphne ZA-class Carrier
Length: 680m, Width: 130m, Height: 170m

A carrier, an overhauled version of the Daphne, remodeled to defend the prison planet Skantzoura. Now with more fighter capabilities, and improved cruising capacity and mobility for embarking on missions abroad.

Daphne-class Carrier
Kalymnos' one and only carrier model. Its fighters may be less capable than those of other nations, but have superb durability thanks to Kalymnian armor technology.


Daphne 2-class Carrier
Length: 700m, Width: 150m, Height: 135m

A redesign of the Daphne, carried out under the supervision of the SMC viceroyalty after the Lugovalian takeover. This armored carrier now has improved cruising capabilities to help it bear up under normal fleet operations.


Eberlin-class Carrier
Length: 1400m, Width: 580m, Height: 700m

The principal carrier of the Regeinlandic Dragoon Fleet, which utilizes carriers as its core force.


Eleganta-class Carrier
Length: 2350m, Width: 1400m, Height: 630m

The latest mobile carrier, redesigned by the Nacio National Defense Space Force to counter the Lugovalian Empire. Built to be its ultimate weapon, it incorporates all the latest Nacion technology.


Kolonio S A-class Carrier
Length: 640m, Width: 460m, Height: 230m

A carrier employed inside dominion territory as a flagship of Spetses's forces. With its advanced Nova Nacion technology, it can make highly effective use of its fighters.

Kolonio S B-class Carrier

A carrier deployed to the border as a flagship of the border guards of the Dominion of Spetses.

Kolonio-class Carrier

Nova Nacio's primary carrier. Pairing it with an escort ship makes it suitable for a wide range of duties. Its well-rounded design makes it a sought-after ship, so Lanco makes it available to private citizens as well.


Paradizo-class Carrier
Length: 800m, Width: 100m, Height: 100m

A Nacio-built mobile carrier adopted by the Nova Nacion Space Force in preparation for war against Kalymnos. This model focuses on increased capacity to load fighters and faster catapult launching.

Spoiler: Others (click to show/hide)

Adonis-class Other
Length: 400m, Width: 70m, Height: 80m

A transport ship that takes full advantage of Kalymnos' armor technology. With plenty of cargo space despite its smaller size, and excellent durability, this model is exported to nations everywhere.

Adonis R-class Other

A transport ship that carries space resources, it is the only type of civilian ship allowed to enter Ropdesk ports. Most of the goods on board are luxuries for Demid Panfilov, the feudal lord of Ropesk.


Alfonso-class Other
Length: 450m, Width: 200m, Height: 90m

The warship of Osvaldo Ochoa, the leader of the Escondidon anti-government insurgents. Traveling undercover, it can serve as a mobile headquarters in times of emergency. With the technical contributions of Adis, its armor and stealth abilities are the best in Escondido.


Belisana-class Other
Length; 340m, Width: 55m, Height: 55m

A stick-shaped ship with an extremely narrow nose to prevent it from getting hit. Designed to charge right into the middle of the enemy fleet to break up its ranks.


Bodry-class Other
Length: 120m, Width: 45m, Height: 25m

A standard ship used regularly by lower-level members of the Novgorod Pirates.

Bodry A-class Other

A remodeled version of the Bodry, a Novgorod Pirates torpedo ship, overhauled by Argun Narevin's men. Used regularly by even the most minor of Narevin's underlings.

 
Boiky RA-class Other
Length: 120m, Width: 45m, Height: 25m

An upgraded version of the Boiky RB, a Ropesk security patrol ship. It has been given improved durability and mobility to handle attacks from anyone who breaks the dominion's laws.


 Boiky RB-class Other
Length: 120m, Width: 45m, Height: 25m

A standard-frame security ship that patrols Ropesk territory. It is under the direct command of the feudal lord, Demid Panfilov

The current Boiky is a Steregushchy-class corvette of the Russian navy, which is appropriate for this small vessel.


Bruch-class Other
Length: 300m, Width: 190m, Height: 130m

Specialized in radar and communications, this warship’s dity is to notify rear-guard units when trouble arises on the front line.


Daisy-class Other
Length: 120m. Width: 90m, Height: 20m

An ordinary transport ship turned into a small cruiser through extensive overhauling by Nia Lochlain. It is extremely temperamental. Only Nia can handle this ship.


Fionn-class Other
Length: 1150m, Width: 1000m, Height: 720m

The personal ship of Oisin Lenus Lugus, a mysterious zero-G dog who is after Cico's life. It makes use of mobile mines to pin down its enemies.

 
Hestia-class Other
Length: 1200m, Width: 295m, Height: 225m

A large transport ship used by the public and private sectors alike in resource-poor Kalymnos. With its ultra-thick armor, it boasts a durability capable of withstanding even pirate attacks.


Krebs-class Other
Length: 18000m, Width: 5000m, Height: 5000m

Regeinland’s ultimate weapon. A mega-laser cannon warship loaded with a weapon designed to trigger a supernova explosion. Two of these ships were built. One was destroyed during the Lugovalian invasion of the SMC, and the other has been locked away.[/color]

Kuraja-class Other
Length: 3600m, Width: 3200m, Height: 300m

Only three of these huge command ships exist in the entire Zenitonian fleet. It looks like one big mass of sensors. It can single-handedly lead an entire fleet of 300 ships, but its firepower and fighter capacity are low.


Libertad-class Other
Length: 320m, Width: 140m, Height: 50m

A small anti-government forces ship commonly used throughout Escondido for guerrilla activities. Taking advantage of its mobility and speed, it charges the enemy fleet and launches special mines or makes close-range attacks.


Nahab-class Other
Length: 450m, Width: 310m, Height: 200m

A torpedo ship loaded with a variety of missiles. Its range is short, but it has high maneuverability and cruising capacities to help it approach the enemy.


Taurus-class Other
Length: 3000m, Width: 3000m, Height: 3000m

A space fortress that functions as Orders’ base of operations. The central section, where the bridge is, has five linear slide mass driver cannons.


Sokol-class Other
Length: 120m, Width: 50m, Height: 25m

A warship commonly used by the Novgorod Pirates. An upgraded version of the Bodry.


Sokol R-class Other
Length: 120m, Width: 50m, Height: 25m

A ship issued exclusively to Ropesk security patrol captains, who are charged with the tasks of defending the feudal lord, Demid Panfilov, and guarding the void gate.

Sokol A-class Other

A remoded version of the Sokol, a Novgorod Pirates torpedo ship, overhauled by Argun Narevin's men. It is the most commonly seen pirate ship in the Central Elgavan Sector.


Varyag-class Other
Length: 550m, Width: 240m, Height: 135m

A light cruiser used exclusively by Demid Panfilov, feudal lord of the planet Ropesk. It has high-output lasers called "Panfilov Cannons" installed on its bow. It fires powerful blasts but has a limited number of shots, and lacks mobility.


Velasco-class Other
Length: 240m, Width: 140m, Height: 80m

A transport ship used by Escondido’s anti-government forces to supply their ships with missiles. It has decent armor but very few weapons.


ZR 2-class Other
Length: 25000m, Width: 17000m, Height: 13000m

Designed as a super weapon for use against the Lugovalian Empire. It consists of two ships linked together: a space fortress and the Impero. It can annihilate a great number of enemy ships at once with its mega-beam cannon, the Hyperon Integrator.

[Hanzoku]

Dawn of a New Era
New Characters: Marsho, Festono
New Ships: Najtingalo (DD)
New Fighters:

Spoiler: Unification and a Passing (click to show/hide)

With the war with Orders over, Regeinland is victorious. Now, perhaps, we can start getting everyone focused on dealing with the imminent invasion from the SMC by Lugovalos, through the Void Gate we inadvertently set up for them.



We have a busy sector and lots to do, so let’s get started.

>>Nizia
Nizia is home to the Regeinland Embassy.

>>Regeinland Embassy
Beyer: The commanders have all gone to Galactic Federation Headquarters over on Merylgild. They’re waiting for you over there, so I recommend that you go see them at once.

>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: Hm? Did somebody leave a briefcase here? Yes, as a matter of fact, they did! About six months ago, a customer from Baranietz forgot his briefcase here. This is it right here. You can have it. I’ve got no use for it.
Quest item in hand, he goes back to his regular dialogue after.

Bartender: I heard the Regeinlandic military has enlisted the Special Prisoner as a visiting officer. And I heard he played a big part in Regeinland’s becoming the leader of the Galactic Federation.
Well, Yuri doesn’t like to boast, but…

I take a brief break from the plot to trek all the way back through the Hinwald and Escondido sectors to Regeinland to deliver a briefcase. At least it’s good for our pocketbook – I started the trip with 162,147G in the accounts, and when I returned to Nizia, we had 182,627G.

>>Baranietz
>>Talk to the merchant.
Merchant: Ah! That’s my briefcase! Did you come all this way just to bring it back to me?! Thank you so much! You’re a lifesaver! It’s not much, but please accept this as a token of my gratitude!

You got blueprints for an Accounting Office 4 module.
Merchant: you’re a lifesaver! That briefcase is full of all sorts of important documents, like contracts and corporate bonds!
 
After we return to the Galactic Federation sector, we start making our way to Merylgild. Half-way there, we receive a signal.

Franny: Yuri, there’s a message for you from Vice Admiral Sankt.

Yuri: A message? What does it say?

Franny: Something about the Federation President calling an emergency meeting.

Yuri: Hm, let me take a look at that.

Admiral Norton of the Republic of Libertas, Ettore the 235th of the Grand Duchy of Enemonzo, Prime Minister Falko of Nacio and Vice Admiral Sankt of the Republic of Regeinland, victor of the recent battle.

If things don’t go correctly, everyone’s brought enough warships to turn this into a very messy bloodbath.

Yuri: I’ve heard the Federation President was just a figurehead who didn’t actually have a lot of power. But it seems like he’s finally revealing his true abilities.

Franny: I don’t follow.

Thomas: It means the Battle of Hinwald was history in the making.

Franny: I still don’t get it.

However, before anyone can enlighten Franny as to how President Brian manipulated things so that he was in a position of real power, Tatiana bursts onto the bridge.

Tatiana: Yuri! You’d better get to the sick bay, quick!

Yuri: What is it, Tatiana?

Tatiana: It’s Gen! And it doesn’t look good!

Kira: Oh no!

Yuri: What’s wrong?!

Various crew members are gathered at the sick bay, looking over a pale and sickly looking Gen Nadiy. He appears to be fading fast.

Alik: (sobs)

Gen: Don’t cry, Alik. You must stay strong, for you must now serve and support Yuri as I once did.

Alik: I-I… I’m not worthy of such an honor. I could never possibly fill your shoes.

Gen: (coughs) No, you are indeed worthy, Alik. And you will fill my shoes. You have what it takes, the intellectual power required to defeat Lugovalos’s massive fleet. Yuri…

Yuri: Yes, Master Gen, I’m here.

Gen: You must believe… believe in Alik. He will… will be of great assistance to you.

Yuri: Yes, Master Gen, I know.

Gen: Very well, then. Oh, and that History of Galactic Wars disk of mine… I want you to have it. Study it well and I guarantee your fleet command capabilities will benefit greatly.

Yuri: I will. And I’ll make sure to put it to good use.

Gen: Yes, please see that you do. Now, about the President’s military call to arms… The galactic Federation will… will finally be united.

Gen: My plan up until now… it has…

Gen’s muttering slowly grows fainter, and his breathing gradually subsides until it altogether ceases. At that moment, Yuri and company lose one of the greatest military strategists that ever lived.

You got the disk, “The History of Galactic Wars”!
You acquired the Special Skill, “Fleet Leader Level 5”!
You can now have up to five ships in your fleet!

That’s great, but we lost Gen, so the moment of gaining our final ship slot is bittersweet.

Spoiler: Large Matters and Small Problems (click to show/hide)

>>Hydrus
We stop at the planet Hydrus, where Tatiana take’s Gen position as Assistant Operator on the Bridge. I check over everyone else’s assignments, but everyone is still assigned to the position they’re best suited to.

Hydrus is also home to a full ship yard, something we’ll take advantage of when we pick up new designs. On the ground, there’s a tavern and Kallas & Co.

>>Kallas & Co.
Receptionist: Welcome to Kallas & Company. This building features a wide range of facilities that zero-G dogs may find quite useful.

>>Staff Assignment Room.
This is where you can hire zero-G dogs that have been painstakingly screened and selected by Kallas & Company. Please, go ahead and select the individual you’re interested in from among the nameplates you see here.

>>Talk to Aleksandro Marsho.

Marsho: Well, I must say it’s an honor to meet you. Let me take a look at your phenomena log. Just one moment, please.

… …

Being that I’m officially registered with Kallas & Company, my services come at a slight premium. What do you say we agree upon a 6,000 G signing bonus?

>>Welcome aboard.
You paid 6,000 G!
Aleksandro Marsho joined your crew!

Marsho: All right, then, I’m all yours now. I have a fair amount of know-how regarding technology, so please just let me know what you would like me to do.

>>Talk to Mihijo Festono.

Festono: Well, now. You want to recruit me, an officially registered Kallas & Company member, do ya? All right, but first I need to see that phenomena log of yours.

… …

Festono: Bah. I guess that isn’t half bad. I’ll join your crew for a signing bonus of 9000 G.
There’s a little trick we can play here…

>>Pass.
Festono: Bah. Balk at such a meager sum, do ya? Fine, then. You just go and find yourself a crew member more suited to your budget. But remember: you get what you pay for!

The second and third times…
Festono: I’ll join your crew for a signing bonus of 7000 G.

The fourth time…
Festono: I’ll join your crew for a signing bonus of 2000 G.
That’s more like it, and as low as he goes.

>>Welcome aboard.
You paid 2000 G!
Mihijo Festono joined your crew!

Festono: All right. Now it’s time to show you and your crew what an excellent choice you’ve made.

Yuri: Great. I’m looking forward to it.

>>Training Room.
We can train our Navigation or Pilot crewmembers here. Once prices are raised to 8,000 for each training, leaving and reentering gives us…

Kallas: Welcome, and thank you for choosing Kallas & Company. As soon as Yuri and company enter the building, a familiar-looking man calls out to them.

Yuri: Ah, Kallas, it’s you.

Kallas: The one and only. You saved me just in the nick of time, and for that I want to thank--
Yuri: You don’t have to thank us. After all, we have access to some excellent facilities now, all thanks to you.

Kallas: Don’t be silly. I’m making a fortune off of good customers like you. I wanted to thank you properly, so that’s why I brought this along.

As he says this, Gus Kallas holds out a data plate.

Kallas: I want you to have this. It contains blueprints for proprietary modules developed by my company. I hope they’ll help you bring the war to as swift of a conclusion as possible.

Yuri: Oh, so you know about what we’re doing, then?

Kallas: Of course we do. After all, our discerning eye is our bread and butter, so to speak. And establishing close ties with customers like you is an investment in our future.

Yuri: In that case, I’ll just say thanks and gladly accept it.

Kallas: Great. Now, I hope we can count on your continuing patronage.

With that, Kallas takes his leave, disappearing out the front entrance.

You got blueprints for a War Room Level 4 module!
You got blueprints for a Navigation Simulation Room Level 3 module!

>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: I could tell the moment you came in here that you’re a zero-G dog with some serious skills. So, I thought I’d tell you about this place called Kallas & Company, right here on this very planet. They supposedly have all sorts of services geared towards zero-G dogs like you. Why don’t you check it out sometime?
You’re paid to advertise for them, aren’t you?

>>Talk to your friends.
Conversation #1
Pavlou: Old man Gen died a peaceful death. I’d almost say he seemed happy to go.

Torlo: What’s that supposed to mean, Pavlou?

Pavlou: It’s like this, Torlo. We all lead different lives, but there’s one thing we have in common: we all die in the end. But what better way is there for an old zero-G dog to meet his end than out here in the sea of stars?

Yuri: True. I guess I kind of envy him for that, too.

Conversation #2
Thomas: It’s like Orders just refuses to die. Their loyal remnants are still out there stirring up trouble. That Daniel Evans guy was one popular fella.

Yuri: …
We’re given a choice between saying maybe and agreeing.

>>Prodigious, wasn’t he?
Yuri: He must’ve been a pretty amazing man. I mean, how else could he have headed such a massive and powerful organization like that? I really wish I could’ve met him at least once.

Thomas: Yeah? Ya think you could’ve found a way to work with him instead of against him?

Yuri: Oh, I doubt it. People are all too often defined by the positions they occupy. Unfortunately, that’s just the way it is.

Thomas: Oh…

Yuri’s Fame increased by 20!

Conversation #3
Georgo: My, look how international and diverse the Galactic Federation’s Central Sector is. It appears that intercommunication between Federation nations is flourishing now that true unification has been achieved.

Thomas: Yeah, even the more reclusive countries are coming outta their shells. Why don’t you Zenitonians join the party and build an embassy here, too?

Georgo: yes, I shall make just such a proposal to Her Majesty at the appropriate opportunity. The only possible impediment I could foresee would be whether Qualia Net could be expanded all the way out to this sector.

Conversation #4
Torlo: Old Man Gen wouldn’t leave the ship, even though he knew he was gonna die. That’s pretty hardcore.

Tatiana: Yeah. I can’t remember how many times I told him he’d be better off in a hospital off the ship, but he just wouldn’t listen.

Kira: Well, at least he passed away surrounded by people who cared about him. He seemed like he was all right, given the circumstances.

Torlo: Of course he was. I mean, to be able to finish your business, an’ then take your last breath in the sea of stars? Now, that’s the way to go! What more could a zero-G dog want outta life?

Tatiana Agarkov and Kira give solemn nods of understanding after Torlo Adkin’s reply. Then, without a word, all three raise their glasses and gently touch them tougher with a clink, honoring the old man.

Back up top, we check out our new crew members. Marsho’s main skills are in Maintenance, Medicine and Artillery, and his special skill is AS Genius Lv 1. He replaces Torlo as our Artillery Handler, as he is at Level 7 and should be able to catch up with Torlo’s skill quickly enough.

Festono’s strengths are in Control, Science and Management, and his special skill is AA Genius Lv 1… making me glad we only paid 2,000G for him as he joins our bench warming squad.

Done with Hydrus, we head on to Merylgild.

>>Merylgild

At the same time Yuri and his fleet enter port, Kevin Norton is addressing VIPs from all over the Federation. As Libertas’ representative, he has been charged with emphasizing the crisis posed by the Lugovalian invasion. He is also responsible for stressing the new spirit of cooperation with the Interplanetary Assembly.

His proposal for creating the LMC Defense Headquarters against Lugovalos is met with a round of overwhelming supportive applause. And to show the respect that his nation has for the ideals held by the newly united Federation, he officially withdraws Emergency Special Measures Bill No. 3047. In its place, the newly proposed Lugovalian Countermeasures Bill passes by a unanimous vote.

This marks the first time Federation nations join together under Regeinland’s lead to draft a defense plan against Lugovalos.

the scene shifts to the President’s Office

Brian: To think we’d actually live to see this day.

Lennox: Well, Mr. President, it seems you finally got what you wanted.

Brian: I wonder… In any case, it’s too soon to tell. This is the first time the Federation has ever been truly unified. And then, of course, there’s Lugovalos, the proverbial 800-pound gorilla.

Norton: Yes, but maybe we now have the momentum we need to overcome that, too.

Brian: Admiral Norton… I can’t help but wonder if you, no, make that Libertas, really intends to abide by today’s resolution.

Norton: Of course we will. Times change, after all. The Interplanetary Assembly’s in the driver’s seat, for now at least.

Brian: For now?

Norton: Yes, well times may change, and the power of great nations may ebb, but that’s not to say that they won’t rise again someday. It may take five or ten years, maybe even more, but you never know.

Lennox: I see.

So it was that Libertas transferred the reins of power to Regeinland without further protest or violence. The smooth and willing transfer speaks volumes about the overwhelming confidence Libertas has in their strength and destiny. Brad Lennox is forced to admire the man before him, the leader of the Libertasian forces.

With that, the scene shifts again, to the docks…

Briana: Whew, I thought we’d never make it back here. Thanks, Captain Yuri!

Callie: Yeah, what she said.

Yuri: What do you guys have planned now?

Briana: We’re gonna check in with our management company. See what’s up there ‘n’ stuff.

Thomas: W-Well, in that case, why don’t I take you all the way there?!

Callie: Nah, we’re cool.

Briana: Yeah, I mean, it’s not like it’s far away or anything. One monorail stop and we’re there. We’ll be, like, fine by ourselves. Anyway, thanks again, you guys. Stop by Star Child Management if you’re ever in the neighborhood.

Callie: See ya.

The garner Twins wave good-bye to Yuri and company and then run off to the orbital elevator, giggling.

We follow at a more sedate pace and take the elevator down. Merylgild has a lot of things to do – the tavern, of course, but also the headquarters of the Galactic Federation, the FSN, and the Star Child agency. We stop by there first.

>>Star Child Management
This is the Star Child Management talent agency. At the front of the office, there is an area dedicated to the selling of goods related to the talent that the agency manages.

We can check out the goods a few times for a little bit of fame.

>>Check out goods for sale.
Various goods related to young pop stars are crammed into a cramped space. There is a small crowd of people around the more popular items.

Thomas: Check this out, Captain! They have stuff here you can’t find anywhere else! Oh, wow! They even have an autographed disk of Ramie! She’s right up there with the GG Girls!

Yuri: Oh yeah? I guess I’m kind of out of it when it comes to popular culture.

Thomas Veil is buying pop star goods left and right, but to Yuri, they all look like the exact same garbage.

Semias: This is going to take forever.

Yuri: Let’s just let him get it out of his system.

Yuri and company leave Thomas there to finish up his extended shopping spree. Thomas doesn’t seem to notice them leaving.

If we go back and check again…

Thomas: Oh, look! They got some new stuff! Sorry man, but I just can’t help myself!

Thomas Veil proceeds to load up his shopping basket with tons of pop star goods, as if he’s hell-bent on collecting them all. Watching this, Semias Alastar turns to Yuri with a disapproving look and whispers to him under his breath.

Semias: Yuri, you ought to warn him about spending all of his money like this. At this rate, he’s going to burn through his paycheck well before his next one comes!

Yuri: Hm.

Do something nice for Thomas? Hahah- no.

>>Leave him alone.
Yuri: Let’s leave him alone. It’s his money, after all. And if he gets to the point where he needs an advance on his salary… then…

Semias: Must you let it get to that point, Captain?

Yuri: Yeah, well, while we’re on the ground, I’d like to let the crew to relieve their bent-up stress any way they like.

Semias: (sighs)

Yuri and company leave Thomas Veil to continue his shopping. He shows no time of leaving anytime soon.

Yuri’s Fame increased by 20!

That done, we head into the office proper.

>>Enter the office.
??: We’ve had enough! We don’t want anything to do with this management company anymore!

??: No, wait! Please! Briana, Callie, don’t go!

Yuri and company hear a commotion coming from inside the building when suddenly two diminutive figures come racing out. They immediately notice it is the Garner Twins whom they met at the tavern on Rastaban before. Their faces are bright red with rage. When the twins spot Yuri and company, they come running over, as if they need help.

Briana: Oh! Captain Yuri, help us!

Yuri: Huh?

Kira: What happened?

Callie: Our management company is out to kill us!

Tatiana: Huh?

Semias: I don’t like the sound of that. Tell us the details.

Briana: Yeah, well, um… it’s like this. Our management company won’t book us any gigs other than to entertain soldiers on the front! They say they just can’t say no to the Libertasian big shots. At this rate, we’re gonna get stuck in the middle of one of their battles and get ourselves killed!

Callie: It could happen anytime…

Semias: Young girls such as these ought not to be subjected to such risks, Captain.

Yuri: yeah, you’re right, Semias.

Briana: Please, help us get away from them! I seriously doubt they’d come after us if we were with you on your ship. Pretty please with sugar on top?
Wait, to avoid potentially being in the middle of a battle, you want to go someplace where you’ll certainly be in battles?

Yuri: But that doesn’t make any sense. I command a military ship that’s constantly engaged in battles. You could get killed with me, too.
See? I like Yuri, he thinks about things like this.

Callie: No way! Your ship’s totally safe compared to those stupid transports that took us to the front. They don’t even have an escort!
She makes a point though. A battleship is a lot safer.

Yuri: Either way, it’s probably just a roll of the dice.

Briana: maybe, but I like our odds better with you. You don’t mind, do you?

Yuri: Hm…

Briana: Please, Captain Yuri, have a heart! Or would you rather see what happened to us in the obituaries?

Torlo: Of course not! Don’t be stupid!

Briana: I didn’t think so. We just need your help until our management company sees the light.

Yuri: Well, all right… We’ll give you sanctuary on our ship. But only until I confirm that your management company has had a change of heart, at which time I’m booting you off.
Haha. We’re never letting them go, Yuri. Never.

Briana: Okay, thanks! You guys are the best, like, totally!

Callie: Yeah, thanks a million!

The Garner Twins have joined your crew!

The deal with the twins is this: At any time, if you go into the office again, you lose the Twins and pick up a Study Hall Lv 3 module. Whooo. The twins themselves have the special skill Angel Voice Lv 5. Help says this…

Angel Voice:
An assignment-bonus type of Special Skill. When a character with this Special Skill is assigned to any post, the Command Gauge replenishes itself at a faster rate.

It makes a noticeable difference. Now, the girls themselves are terrible – level 1, with bad stats almost everywhere. Still, I know the perfect position for them...

Crew, meet our new serving staff.

Garners: Whaaaaaat?!

Have fun girls, you’re indentured until you’re eighteen.

Spoiler: More Delivery Work (click to show/hide)

Having punished the Garners for their terrible music and picked up their bonus for our use, we head to the tavern to celebrate.

>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: I’m so glad the Federation is finally united. Now maybe this sector will start developing and prospering like I know it should.

>>Talk to the merchant.
Merchant: (sighs) I don’t know what I’m going to do. One of my, uh, customers has a daughter who is a huge fan of Lord Roth’s. The problem is, she wants me to get her an autographed picture of Lord Roth for her birthday. Where’s a guy supposed to get something like that? It’s embarrassing! I, uh, wouldn’t want anyone getting the wrong idea…

This opens up a silent quest to go get a picture. Now, you’d think it’d be as simple as finding Roth in this sector and getting one from him, since he probably carries a stack around at all times. That is not the correct solution – instead, it’s road trip time!

We head all the way back to Ambach in the Regeinland Sector. Along the way, the local pirates introduce us to a new destroyer class – the Najtingalo. They’re fairly durable, as they survive a single volley from our fleet, but that’s about all you can say for them.

>>Ambach
Here, the home planet of the Royal Fleet, we visit the Tavern.

>>Tavern
>>Talk to the bartender.
Bartender: Lord Roth has visited by tavern in the past. We even sell his autographed photos. They’re very popular. I hope you’ll think about buying one!

Huh?! You really do want to buy one? Well, it’s actually a ten-picture set, and it’ll set you back 100 G. Are you still interested?
We’ve bought people single drinks for more.

You paid 100 G! You got autographed photos of Lord Roth!

And back we go to Merylgild.
>>Tavern
>>Talk to the merchant.
He repeats what he had to say last time, but this time Yuri is prepared.

Yuri shows the merchant the autographed pictures of Lord Roth that he bought back on Ambach. The merchant’s eyes light up.

Merchant: Are those for me?! Oh, thank you, thank you! These are fantastic! Please take these as a token of my gratitude!

You got blueprints for a Training Room Level 2 module!
You got blueprints for a Shop Level 3 module!
We also picked up 21,120G in total from our traveling, so not a bad haul for a simple fetch quest.

With our courier work out of the way, we head to the Galactic Headquarters for a talk with the President.

>>Galactic Federation Headquarters

Yuri and company arrive at the galactic Federation headquarters to find that a big meeting must have just concluded. Among the hustle and bustle, they spot a familiar face. The man notices them too, and quickly comes over.

Sankt: Ah, there you are, Captain.

Yuri: Vice Admiral Sankt. Hello.

Sankt: The Lugovalian Countermeasures Bill was ratified earlier today. That means that the Galactic Federation can now deal with the Lugovalian invaders as a unified force. Our meeting here centered on organizing the Coalition Fleet.

Yuri: How much longer do you think it will take?

Sankt: Well, it’s going to take another month just to bring the various chains of command and command systems in line with each other.

Yuri: That’s way too late.

Torlo: Yeah, you think those Lugovalians are gonna sit ‘n’ wait while we take our sweet time?

Sankt: There’s nothing to worry about. Some 20,000 ships have already been sent to guard the void gate from the SMC. And we’ve already finished laying magnetar mines around the gate as well. Even if they invaded right now, I don’t see how they could possible penetrate our defenses, at least not right away.

Yuri: … You should hurry up and finish organizing that Coalition Fleet. That’s all I’m going to say.

Sankt: I know. Oh, and I have a message for you from President Brian. He said he would really like you to stop by the President’s Office when you get the chance.

Yuri: The President, huh?

Franny: Wow, Yuri! You’re a big shot now, getting invited to meet with the President and all!

Sankt: Well, that’s it for now. I’ll be working over at FSN Headquarters for a while. You can find me there if you should ever need to see me for anything.

Thomas: FSN Headquarters? What’s going on over there?

Sankt: The Federation has set up what it’s calling Galactic Defense Headquarters there to oversee the fight against Lugovalos. And since the building houses the FSN, it has the wide range of facilities you’d expect from an intelligence agency. I’ll see you there, next time.

Luitger Sankt heads outside where he avoids a crowd of reporters and gets into a waiting vehicle. It promptly whisks him away.

We’ve gotten the ball rolling, and next time we’ll meet with the President to find his take on everything that’s happened.

Meanwhile, I decided to bring up the poll – what shall we do with our fifth fleet slot? I had stated way back when that it would house another battleship, but do you guys want to see two different modern battleships, or would you prefer I grind and install the first of our end-game ships, the Picaroon-class hybrid battleship/carrier? Doing so would probably delay the next update a week, as I’d have to fight some 400 random battles to get enough funds to buy and fully equip that ship.