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Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
Latest Update: :siren:This time you die, Knuckles!:siren:



What the hell is this?
This is Valkyria Chronicles 3, the third and final game of the VC franchise but never released outside of Japan. Specifically, this game is the re-mix edition with some extra story missions and a 2nd romance path. The romance in this story is about as much as Valkyria Chronicles 1, not really being a focal point.

What's the story?
We're back to the Gallian/Empire war, this time as a black ops squad of Gallia that are basically the Suicide Squad of doing behind-the-works operations. Essentially, it's a gaiden and how they influenced the outcome of the war.

Spoiler policy:
Don't do it. Seriously, do I have to say more?

Style of LP:
Screenshot, and casual. I'm not getting any S ranks or super maxed out or whatever, we are just going to experience the game as it is. If I missed anything, probably tell me but I'm not going out of my way to reset a mission just because I didn't get an S. I'll still post artbook pages so I'm not totally lazy.

What else to know?
This is a heavy sequel to VC1, and is a gameplay successor to VC2. I'm going to assume you saw my LP of 2, so we're going to skip the boring combat tutorial stuff and only point out the new/major changes.

VC1: ApePresident's Video LP
VC2: My LP
VC3: Ape President's Video S-Rank LP

How are you playing this if it was never released?
A very dedicated person/team translated the main game, so keep in mind this isn't a professional localization.

His webpage here: Here

Chapter 1: The Nameless
My Name is Kurt, this is my plan
From Hero to Zero, to Number 7
422nd goes 404
The back-up plan

Chapter 2: The 72-Hour Combat
Getting Trust is Harder than a Mission
Half Full, Half Empty
Seven with Seven
Call me Riela...GET BACK HERE, No. 1!!
My name is Imca.

Chapter 3: The Calamity Raven
Hello, nurse! Mine, mine, mine!
Step of Faith, and the head of the Empire
Your Commander's a bit...buggy
Unite! Squad 7 and Squad 422!

Character fragments
Giulio: Fish eggs arrested me/Food is Mightier than the Sword
Amy/Deit: I am my father's daughter/A bad day/Leaving/A Bond
Annika: Justice!!!/A pure fist
Serge: The battle I love/A captain's order
Gloria: I'm not old/Who Knows?
Felix: AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!/COMRAAAAAADES
Leila: Whippuh/BOW TO ME
Valerie: Winner writes the books!/Gate of Truth
Alfons: Ma face/Big hunger

Chapter 4: Escorting Cardinal Borgia
Meeting His Eminence
Milky Pope
A Spicy Encounter
I have a Dream

Character Fragments: Round 2
Clarissa: An unforgivable act/Unshaken Hope
Shin: LOYALTY/HONOR
Riela: A place where I belong/Shining Light Into the Night

Chapter 5: The Forbidden Operation
Uneasy Orders
Your Highness, I bring you low, low prices!
Havine a Yuell-Time battle
This time you die, Knuckles!

Tae fucked around with this message at 17:27 on Jul 12, 2015

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Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
422nd squad aka "The Nameless"
-Kurt Irving: Super Genius, tactical, candy lover
-Riela Marcellis: Angel of Death
-Imca: Ace, speaks in negatives
-Gusurg: Caring of his squad, supportive of Kurt
-Guilio Rosso: Chief, ingredient thief
-Felix Cowley: Hates risk, never shuts up
-Deit: Tragedy
-Amy Apple: Helper
-Annika Alcott: Roundhouse Kick, vegetables
-Alfons Auclair: Detective, possible masochist
-Serge Liebert: Soldier of death
-Leila Peron: Queen delusions, sadist
-Gloria Durrell: Former assassin/black market dealer/brothel host, etc.
-Valerie Aynsley: museums, TRUTH
-Clarissa Callaghan

-Ramsey Crowe: Commander, drunk, womanizer

Foes
-Carl Isler: Major General, paranoid, betrayer

Tae fucked around with this message at 00:36 on Jun 9, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7FfRchwYqQ

Don't watch if you want to be kept in the dark.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAQWuQVLS4k



A recap to show when in the war the game takes place.





So major figures like Selvaria and Jaegar are still commanding forces, and Welkin's Squad 7 has just formed up.




This is Valkyria Chronicles 3's story.





Lieutenant Kurt Irving, front and center!



I'm turning command of this battle over to you as Lanseal Military Academy's top graduate. Let's see if you're as good as they say!
Can he really do it? They say this is only his second battle...
I heard that he performed miracles in the first battle...
But we're almost all new recruits. Can we do it?
It seems more like the captain took a liking to him.
Pipe down, all of you! Settle down! All right, Lieutenant. please introduce yourself.



I will say this right now, victory is already assured for our troops!

*Group gasps*

What did he say...!?
Without shedding a drop of blood, our military will wipe out the enemy's attack and take control of the area.
What are you saying?!
Easier said than done...!
Lieutenant Irving, please tell us the strategy.
Our squad will split into two groups: five heading straight on toward the enemy, and the others attacking from the rear.
With so few soldiers?



After they focus to the front, then our main force will attack the enemy from the rear to ensure victory.
Very interesting strategy! You may proceed!
Sir!

*Time passes*



Those Gallian scum...are they that desperate already?

Oh my god, I can't believe I miss these empire helmets so much. I'm scarred by random gold thingies on foreheads forever.

Captain! There are enemy forces to the rear...!
What?!

*Explosions and gunfire rock the screen*

They're attacking from behind!
Focus the attack on the front! That's an order from the top!
Sir!



This is the map style of this game, and it changes every new chapter. Look how pretty it looks! It makes you fee like you're actually taking tactics to the field, instead of that dropdown list that VC2 did. Simple breakdown of what the colors and icons mean:

blue checkmark: story cutscene
orange checkmark: regular scene
red pin: story battle
green pin: free, repeatable battle



Our first mission is to kill everyone on this very long map.



A nice feature is that the game tells you what are the benchmarks to get a rank. Japanese rankings start with S and go down from there, so don't mind that.



We start with our main character and fodder guys as usual, though unlike the previous games, we're actually have to use them if we want that S rank.



Kurt is a Shocktrooper and obviously way better than his teammates. Another new feature to VC3 are accessories. The Ceremonial Dagger gives +2 Accuracy/Evade, which is nice.

He has 3 good Potentials, 1 bad one. We'll get to those at the end of this update.



All the grunts have a defense boosting Potential.




So this is a long, straight line of a map. The Shocktroopers will handle the initial enemies and the Scouts will take care of the ones farthest away.



For the most part, combat is the same as the previous games with a few exceptions.



Major change #1: Interception fire loving HURTS! This is Kurt after a few shots from Scouts. Avan face-tanked over a dozen shots before his health dropped to 75 percent in his first mission.

This changes everything about playing the game. You cannot throw your Shocktroopers into literally dozens of Machine Gunners and tanks and expect them to survive, like I did in VC2. You must be methodical with sandbag hopping and staying in the grass, avoiding situations where your soldiers can fight more than 1 enemy, etc.



Anyways, this S rank requirement is kinda annoying because you must literally kill each soldier with 1 CP.



LUTZ WHAT THE gently caress



And now you activate the potential after getting shot?!



And then you died despite being crouched behind a sandbag?!

:mad:




loving Lutz.



That's gonna be explained way later, but I'll just say the grinding poo poo from VC2 is gone now and replaced with a much more sensible way to upgrade classes.




When a story mission is complete, the board map changes as if an actual war is going on and troop position changes dynamically. It's so cool, and makes you actually feel like you did something.




The line of defense switched up as Kurt's suggestions let his group advance on the enemy, where the next mission takes places.

Kurt's Potentials

Genius: Raises Accuracy, anti-infantry, anti-armor
Likes Cooking: Increases Defense when crouching
Composed: Raises Accuracy under interception fire
Quibbler: Loses defense when selected

The main problem with Kurt is that he can lose defense in a game where it's really bad to lose defense. This guy will live and die by how many sandbags he can get to. Opposing Shocktroopers aren't too big a deal since you can walk to their maximum range and take piddly, wait until they start reloading, then run in and blast their head off.

Tae fucked around with this message at 16:51 on May 24, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Internet Kraken posted:

So if we're playing as a suicide squad does that mean permadeath is back or is that still absent? Not that it would really matter for the LP I guess.

It's still like VC2, but they shortened the time to recover that character. There's a lot of major changes made to the systems I'll talk about later.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

David Copperfield posted:

Are there still any notes about the bust size decisions for every female character design?

Not all of them....

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!



New objective is to capture the enemy camp at the end of the 2nd map, with a 2 turn time limit for S.



Kurt's going up ahead and clear the way before capturing the nearby base, since he'll get slaughtered if he just ignores the interception fire.



The 2nd map is a reverse of the 1st mission, except now a Scout has to spend 2 turns just to get there.



At least that went smoother.



With Kurt's plan a rousing success, the Gallian forces have pushed the Imperials back heavily.



Lieutenant Irving was right, It's like victory was already decided before the battle began.
He's the real deal. That kind of victory doesn't happen by chance! It takes sound judgement, keen perception, analytical ability, a cool-headed strategy and full understanding of the enemy...In short, he's a genius.

Good lord, I don't think Avan gave nearly a thorough handjob about Leon as this guy did for Kurt.

It was nothing, sir. I was merely given the conditions needed to win.
Don't be so modest. You're definitely on your way up. I'm proud to be by your side.

*Something catches their attention*

Hey, look! Units from the capital are gathering.
If the city of Vasel falls, Lanseal can no longer be defended. It's only natural the Gallian army will assemble here.
You just got assigned here, and yet you can already assess the situation?

He's a genius, I don't know if you didn't understand that after that essay earlier.

Isn't that expected? We should always predict the movements of both friend and foe.
Ha-ha, there's no way I can keep up with a genius...

*Kurt notices a group*

Hm? That's the first time I've seen that kind of uniform...



Stand up, 13....We don't have time to cry.
But!
This is the way things are... We have to keep fighting either way.
....
Slowing down a tank unit with just a squad was ridiculous from the start.
Meanwhile, our main army just waltzed in without assisting, eh? Our army is just so majestic and cool.
Damnit! They're just sending us out as cannon fodder! We're humans, too!



Oh, them? That's the 422nd, Also known as the "Nameless." It's a penal unit consisting of society's worst: military criminals and lawbreakers. It's where people who are better off dead get sent to do the deadliest missions. HQ considers them sacrificial pawns.

If that's true, there's a reason why Kurt's mission went far better than expected: the Nameless threw themselves at the tanks that normally would be part of reinforcements and stalled them.

I've even heard who disobey orders there face the firing squad. I wouldn't want to wind up there!



*thinks to himself* A penal squad, huh?




I'm Major General Carl Isler. It's seems you've pulled off another amazing feat! While the army already recognizes your talent as Lanseal's top graduate, you still managed to exceed our expectations. I have high expectations for you. I expect to see you again.
Sir!

*Carl leaves*

This game seems wordier than VC2 for some reason. Maybe it's because it's the intro, maybe it's because this is the actual military and not Avan talking to his bird.

A general came by to personally speak to you! Your future gets brighter every day! Please, let me be under your command!

Holy poo poo dude, calm down and take a cold shower.

This is a time of war. The only things that matter are victories and results.

*Days later*



Out of the way! *bumps into Kurt* Tch! *Runs past Kurt*
A civilian in a military facility? That's unusual. Oh?



What's this? Did that person just drop it? This signature...It's addressed to Major General Isler.

*Later, Kurt enters Carl's office*



Yes, sir! Before we begin, I think I should return this... *hands letter*
Oh... Tell me, where did you find this?
On my way here I bumped into someone and he dropped this. I confirmed that it had your name on it so I brought it to you.
Thank you. You did the right thing.



Um...I just wanted to give you some words of encouragement. Thanks to your outstanding talent, I'm certain there will be a day when you'll be known throughout Gallia. Please keep this in mind, from now on.

*After Kurt leaves the office*



I can't deny the possibility. In that case...I have no choice but to take action.


Uh...that can't be good.



Ah, I have some regrettable news, Second Lieutenant Irving.
Huh...?
These orders are from command. Please take a look.

*After Kurt reads them*



These are official orders. You are hereby relieved of your current command and transferred to the 422nd Unit.
But isn't the 422nd that penal unit they call the Nameless?
That's correct. This transfer is...your penalty for treason.



Honestly, I don't understand it myself. The higher-ups didn't think I needed to know.
How is that possible?!
Starting today, your Commanding Officer will be Lt. Colonel Ramsey Crowe of the Penal Corrections Department. Report to Lt. Col. Crowe for further instructions. You are dismissed.
...Yes, sir.

That has to be a new record on being betrayed, right? What the hell was in that letter?

*Later that day*



Huh?
Dontcha usually bring a tribute or something? Ya know, like booze or a woman? Eh?
...Apologies, I came here as soon as I received my assignment orders.
Oh...Gotcha.
...Which means you're 7.
Lt. Col Crowe. By "7", are you referring to me?



There aren't any military records of your missions, so you guys don't need names. You're basically criminals, referred to only by your penal number. That's why you're the "Nameless".
"The same as criminals", you say......
It's tough to say, but if you work yourself to death, you might just get a transfer to a proper unit...maybe.

Well that soouunds easy enough for a Genius, as this game hammered to us repeatedly.

So if someone recognizes my achievements, I can be transferred?
Hard to say. To be honest, I've never seen it happen yet.
....Then I'll be the first.

Well, it ain't Valkyria Chronicles unless we're getting put down by our superiors, I guess. Just laying out all the usual stuff really early.

Here are the orders from HQ for the next mission. Deliver them for me.



Understood. Before that, I have a question about why I was transferred here...
How the hell would I know? Get going, already!



So...we went from Juliana to Avan tier in like 30 seconds. I mean I guess that's better than that one creepy blond guy on Kurt's balls all day....?

Kurt Art Pages

Tae fucked around with this message at 17:53 on May 24, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Cialis Railman posted:

How the gently caress does Gallia's military even function considering everyone in it is horribly corrupt? :psyduck:

It doesn't, that's why Welkin's squad did everything.

I guess that's why they got competent and destroyed the rebels by themselves once their terrible leaders got blown up.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!


Here's the 422nd's encampment.



You there...
Wha--!!



Well today's just the best day, Mr. Irving

Ah...
Is this how this unit usually greets others?
I'm so sorry! It's just that you were behind me, and I reacted by instinct, and...



....Doesn't seem like an intruder.
13, who is this man?
He, uhh, he is...
I've just been transferred to this unit. I'm Ku...
7. I'd like to meet the unit



*Thinks to himself* Am I being ignored?
Umm. I... I'm really sorry! Goodbye! *Runs away*
What is wrong with this unit?
I didn't hear about any transfer today. Is there an emergency?

*Kurt explains his situation*



Treasonous activity that nobody actually heard about isn't something unusual around here.
Are you serious?!
Let's say I'm in a similar position. I'm 6. Nice to meet you, 7.
Same to you. I have these orders from command to your squad leader as soon as possible.
Our captain just died in the last battle. You said you're a second lieutenant?



Me?
This unit doesn't have a captain. And you're the highest ranking officer. How many battles did you fight?
Only two, but I do have some experience.

Sounds dumb, but that's how officers usually are if they take the school path. If you're smart, you never see battle nearly as much as a grunt working as a lower tier rank like a Private or Sergeant.

Then there shouldn't be any problems. Let me see those orders.
The mission... it's today!
I guess there's no time to dawdle. Fine, I'll take command.
I'm counting on you.




So we're hot military genius leader, to traitor, back to hot military genius leader of a bunch of criminals. I guess that's a step up from Class G who's mostly just apathetic.



Hm...
7's a 2nd lieutenant.
An officer?
These are our orders from HQ. I'll read them. "Within 24 hours, locate an enemy reconnaissance unit approaching the City of Vasel and crush it."
"In addition, because our main forces are preserving their strength to engage the enemy main force...Reinforcements are not possible. We require a complete victory from you. That is all."



Why's it always us? Tch.
Um... Can I ask a question?
Forget it. You just need to keep your mouth shut. If you're quiet, this boy will only be....hehe.

Cryptic granny, I see. That's...a new one.

Ah....okay, then.
Anyone else?

*The rest don't object*

Then, as soon as we're ready, we'll move out. Follow my orders!

*Time passes*



I think it's a recon unit.
Roger, return to base.
Sir!
Looks like this'll be an easy flank. 6, is the rest of the unit ready with their preparations?
This is 6. How should I put this? Instead of explaining, it'll be faster for you to come see for yourself.
Hm? All right. I'm headed your way.

*Kurt travels to the location*



It's as you see.
...When I came back, all that was left was the tank.
Where is everyone besides 13? Why isn't everyone in their positions?!

Okay, never mind. I think Class G moved a tier up because abandonment was certainly never an issue.

There's still one more person. Over there is number 1, Ace.



Oh good, the girl that won't talk to us is here at least.

Why is Ace so close to the enemy? She's not where I ordered her to be!
You've got every right to be angry but I don't think you have the time to complain. The enemy will be on the move again, soon. At this rate, they'll get away. What are your orders?
This is unbelievable..! Graaah!

Uh oh, hulk Kurt!



...Candy hulk?

Uh, 7 Are you okay-?
Just give me a minute! *Continues crunching candy*

*A moment passes*

....Ok. I have a new plan.
New strategy: With our numbers, surrounding and eliminationg the enemy is impossible. So instead, 13 and I will head to the right flank and standby.
Ace and the tank will head to the left flank and attack.
That's it?



In that case, they'll most likely try to avoid combat and flee towards the right flank. We'll be there waiting for them.
Will this really work?
If you were the enemy commander in unknown territory, wouldn't you run towards your allies?
Mm, true.





Tae fucked around with this message at 18:43 on May 24, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Tempest_56 posted:

So which one is which?

Check the 2nd post, it's the name section.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Anatharon posted:

Unrelated, I just noticed Kurt says he's still fought in two battles even after he just fought his third.

I think the 1st two we saw are just one long continuous battle. You can have multiple skirmishes that add up to a battle.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!


Time to kill everyone, and our first hint that this is a translation. Not like it matters, mission names rarely are clever enough. Three turns is the limit for S rank, which is doable enough.



Riela comes with a Self-Defense Knife (+2 evade/anti-infantry) and some huge sirens on who she is, based on her Potentials.

Maternal: Increases evasion when near allies
Diligent: Recovers HP if half or less
Mysterious Body: Recovers HP after attacking
Angel of Death: Decreases accuracy/defense under interception fire

She's a weird fragile-yet-invincible Scout, if you can balance her HP well.



Imca comes with a Darcsen Ribbon (+2 anti-armor/range) with a custom model for her weapon.

Aloof: Increased defense when alone
Malnutrition: Decreases evasion when AP is half or less
Country Bred: Fighting on dirt increase accuracy/anti-infantry
Vengeful Vow: When surrounded by 3+ enemies, decrease defense/evasion

As our resident Lancer, she has to be treated like a Sniper; away from the front lines at all costs.



Gusurg is our standard tank commander, with another major change: All vehicles now cost 1 CP regardless of body. That means you're not super punished for going the heaviest tank with poo poo AP AND paying 3 CP a turn for it. Took them long enough.

Darcsen Pride: Defense and anti-vehicle increase for all Darcsens, friend or foe
Born Leader: Increase defense when nearby 3+ allies
Spicy Food Lover: Defense increases under interception fire
Idealist: Anti-infantry/vehicle decreased

So commander Darcsen here is what you call beefy. Tanks are hard enough to kill by most soldiers, but add in his 3 defense buffs and he's basically invincible. Idealist is obviously a turn-off because that stops his otherwise one-man wrecking status, but meh. Definitely no Lavinia with double-attack.

Anyways, on to the mission itself.



Prepare to move out, we're engaging the imperials.
This is 6, acknowledged!
13, are preparations complete? Don't let the enemy escape. Eliminate all of them.
Understood. Not even one is allowed to get away, right?
Yes, we can't afford to let a scout return with any intelligence whatsoever.
Ace, if anyone heads towards your location, eliminate them.



What's wrong, Ace? Please answer!
No.
What?
I don't care.
What? Hey, 6, what's wrong with Ace?
Don't worry about it, 7. Ace won't let anyone through.
It's you and 13 that need to be careful. Don't make any mistakes.
What...
This squad....




This is basically Arlem, which I know by the back of my hand by now. At least they have the manners to start Imca directly behind a tank for the easy kill.



...Or maybe not.



Besides that bad start, it's Arlem. Or "Vasel Skirt" or whatever.



Just who are you, 7?
Just a man who committed treason, apparently. Is there anything else to say?
I see that you're still angry. Sorry about that, that's my fault to begin with.
What do you mean?



Truthfully, I didn't want anyone to take command of this unit without my approval.
I see.

Huh, interesting. It seems despite Gusurg being reluctant to lead, he's every bit their leader behind the scenes.

There's still one more thing I have to ask. Why continue fighting even though it was just the four of us?

Cause...he didn't have a choice?

Why wouldn't I? You can't win by running away.
Eh?
Just because we had less people, doesn't mean it becomes impossible to win.
Huh?!



Did you think running was the best solution? That way of thinking doesn't apply to me.
7...
Ha-ha-ha! I think I'm starting to see what kind of person you are!
Eh? Do you find me strange?
No, not at all.
Heh, it seems you're suited to lead after all. It'd be a pleasure to fight under your command.



Your name? Aren't the Nameless supposed to refer to each other by number?
To outsiders, yes, but we often call each other by our true names as a sign of respect.
That is the Nameless way. I hope you remember that.
Understand. My name is Kurt Irving. Thank you, Gusurg.



What is it, 13?
I just wanted to say...Your plan was incredible! And...well, uh...sorry again! *runs away*
*Thinks to himself* She still called me by my number. Looks like she doesn't respect me, yet...



*Imca immediately leaves*

Ace is ignoring me again....Seems like there'll be some growing pains with this unit.
But I have to do it. I'll lead them to victory again and again until I'm recognized. That's the only way out of here!

*A moment later*



I'll have to do something about that...I can't exactly win with four members forever...What to do....



Oh god, it's blond ballsman.

You are...
To go out of your way to fight for our sake. Thank you for your hard work.
What do you mean?
Annihilating the enemy for us...Thanks for giving us all the credit. It'll really boost our morale.
...!



Whoah, what the gently caress's with this sudden heel turn? You were gargling for his shoe polish like a day ago.

There's no such thing as trash on the battlefield. Right now, Gallia has a shortage of troops. Nothing can be throw away.
What?!
Before you start calling others trash, think about yourself first.
You bastard! How dare you address an officer of the Regular Army that way!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0nd3McPmEo



WHAT THE gently caress



Look, I understand you want to do the whole "Both sides are assholes" thing but this is over the top, even compared to VC1.








Super late title card.



This is a penal squadron for criminals whose punishment is to carry out the Gallian Military's most dangerous missions. A gathering place for punishing soldiers and criminals for high crimes. A unit sent to only the most dangerous missions.

That this unit would one day have a great effect on the future of Gallia had yet to be suspected by anyone.
No. Perhaps 7, Kurt Irving, alone could have known.

Tae fucked around with this message at 05:34 on Jun 6, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

UrbicaMortis posted:

You'd think Kurt would just have a few of them put in front of a firing squad until they obeyed orders. But I suppose it isn't that kind of game.

If he did, he would have less troops to work with since he doesn't exactly have a steady, reliable stream of replacements.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Anatharon posted:

I mean at the start of the game he says was in two battles, then the first level happens.

You mean the conversation with Gusurg? One battle was the beginning of the chapter, the other was Kurt's First Battle, a DLC battle.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!




This is referencing Operation Cloudburst, Squad 7's plan of driving a tank across a shallow river and taking back a vital chokepoint.

This prompted the Imperial army to send additional troops to reinforce their positions in the north and south.

Early March, 1935-Gallian Headquarters


Absolutely terrible and dysfunctional. There's no other way to describe them.

Yep, Kurt's still pissed.

Yep, sounds about right. Oh by the way, Major General Isler sends his apologies, saying "How could such a thing happen?" "I'm so sorry.." and other things.
I see. Well, I already know what I have to do to get out of this unit. Not like I have any other options.
Yeah, well...Once the Army's made up its mind about something, it'll take a heck of a lot of effort to change it. Anyways...



With only that much time?
Hey, don't blame me! The orders came from the higher ups, and I ain't sticking my nose into it.
*thinks* If it's a guerrilla attack, we can take advantage of the terrain.

*Later at the Nameless camp*



With how many imperials there are around here, I guess there's no avoiding that.
I still can't believe they want us to capture a stronghold within 72 hours. Just another day as a Nameless...
Gusurg. Besides you, Ace, and 13, how many others are in this unit?
Right now? Ten.
Then please find five members that you think would be willing to assist me.
Got it.

*A moment later*



And what gives you the right?
Don't think you can boss us around just because you're the highest rank.
Hey guys come on, don't start a fight.
....Though I do feel 7's attitude is a bit of a problem.
That's true. He just seems hard to talk to.
Everyone's so harsh today!



I also want to know why you didn't participate in our last mission.
Well, if Mr. Gusurg asks...
I guess I'll tell you, then.

15. I didn't participate in that mission because I don't want to die yet.
21. I didn't want my comrades to die, so I picked the path that led to that.
24! I wanted to join the mission but everyone stopped me.
56. I hate fighting.
I'm 32. You weren't qualified to be captain so I had no reason to join that mission.

All of you except 24 suck :mad:

Wasn't qualified?
Right, in practice the captain of the Nameless is decided by nomination.
According to rank, yours is the highest but you didn't receive orders from HQ to take over this unit, did you?
Now that you mentioned it, no.
I left command of this unit to you, Kurt, but more than half the unit had yet to give their votes.
In other words, your orders still lack the authority to be considered official.



It's an informal practice within the Nameless but it was decided by the higher ups. Would you like to confirm it with Lt. Col. Crowe?
There's no need.
Gusurg! I already told you we think you're suited to become the next captain!
That's right! I really respect you, Gusurg!
I'm not command material. Besides, having a Darcsen as your captain will only drive our reputation further down.
But besides you, who else can lead us?
I believe that 7, Second Lieutenant Kurt Irving, is suitable for the position.
While you were all absent in the last battle, I was able to see this man's ability and I base my recommendation on that. Before you decide on who's captain, shouldn't you first see for yourselves what he can do?
If you still don't think he's worthwhile, then I'll take his place. So just once, I would like you all to accept his commands. What do you think?

I think we got our first supportive bro teammate in Valkyria Chronicles.



I wanted to join in in the first place so I'm in.
I'll listen to 7 this one time, then.
If Gusurg really believes in 7, then....
If everyone else is in, I'll go too.
Thank you, all.
All right, Kurt. Don't waste this opportunity.




A small team can use mobility and guerilla tactics to their advantage to eliminate the enemy.



...and launch a surprise attack to capture their base camp and take Aslone.
We have 72 hours to complete this mission. Everyone, please do your part!



So a lot of options opened for us. There's two Free missions available, and the story mission. This is a minor change I love over VC2. Instead of having a bunch of random Key missions before the actual story mission, they just have a bunch of missions with story tied to each one, so you're progressing at a smooth pace instead of apparently standing around 2 days between what feel like minutes in-universe.



Welcome to the main camp. There's a lot of mechanics and things to go over, especially on the major changes. War Room is just going back to the chapter map.



Tank Base is where you modify parts for the vehicle, but you can do that at the shop so it's kinda useless.



The APC is also available in case mobility trumps over firepower. We can also rename the tank, but I think it's about as visible as VC2, so not really worth doing.



Squad Barracks is where the Encyclopedia, Newspaper, and profiles are but they're mostly untranslated unfortunately. So no lore dumps for this LP.



The shop is where you'll spend most of your time here, whether to buy things or modify your troops.



Major change: You no longer have to grind for material bullshit. It's straight linear upgrades like VC1, so just have enough money and you'll get everything.

Shop also has a few accessories, including the Charm of Vigor which gives a handly 5 AP. Unfortunately, we don't have enough to buy everything but at least it's just a simple money exchange this time.



Leveling up troops is much different than the previous two games.



Instead of classes being leveled up, individual stats are separately raised. As you can see, anti-infantry is super expensive because obviously killing stuff is the most important thing. Other stats like status resistant and anti-vehicle show up from time to time, as well as Orders related to the level of stat raised.

Don't worry, Kurt's Order CP costs are very reasonable, unlike Avan who averaged like 3-8 on his.



A super major change here; class changing is universal, meaning anyone can be any class. Class upgrades are also progression-based, meaning it's just Scout->Vet Scout->Elite Scout. No branching path, but there is incentive to change classes which will be unlocked later.

There's basically a blog post about it here but basically kill enemies and capturing bases enough to get XP. That's what the Skill Level Up screen was there after the rankings.

WAY BETTER than loving certificate/diploma bullshit.



However, there are some classes that each character prefers to be in. Kurt for example prefers being a Shocktrooper and Sniper and gets bonus stats, though Sniper isn't available yet.

Oh yeah, Sniper is its own class again. Whoo hoo! So is Gunner and Fencer.

Meet the new Nameless


Procuerment Expert: Gets extra ammo after attacking.
Feeling: Accuracy/anti-vehicle/anti-infantry increases when near friends.
Insect Hater: When on grass, decrease accuracy/evasion.

Guilo is a drat good Lancers, as he has a powerful Potential when near Felix currently. I'm pretty sure Feeling is a bad translation of what it was originally, cause that can't be right.



Valiant: Accuracy and anti-infantry is increase when surrounded by 3+ enemies.
Maternal: Increases evasion when near allies.
Insensitivity: Decreases evasion under interception fire.

Felix has super poo poo aim, even for a Shocktrooper. Your best bet is to just throw him into the Wolves and hope his Potential triggers, then he becomes a demon.



Adept: Increase accuracy.
Darcsen Bond: Increase all Darcens' defenses.
Pessimistic: Evasion lowers when at half AP or less.
Misanthropist: Increase anti-infantry when near allies.

Deit has some great Potentials, especially as a non-Armor Tech. I've said before that Evasion is a worthless stat most of the time, he's just a great character for any situation.



Unyielding: Increase accuracy.
Shorty: Increase evasion under interception fire.
Loneliness: Decrease evasion when alone.

Amy's a typical Scout, with some insane accuracy boosts. She'd make a terrific Shocktrooper with her absurdly high aim stat and Potential.



Respectful Gaze: Defense increases near allies.
Veggie Maniac: Increase anti-infantry/anti-vehicle when on top of soil/grass/sand.
Miscalculation: Decrease accuracy.
Reckless: Decrease evasion under interception fire.

Annika is godawful outside of Veggie Maniac until you either make her an Armor Tech or Fencer to get around her incredibly bad aim.

Next up is Kurt's chance to officially be the captain.


Tae fucked around with this message at 20:25 on May 24, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Wales Grey posted:

It's a different guy who looks exactly like the other two guys (who are also not related) who trained your dudes and has the same name.

Calvaro Rodriguez is the same guy in both VC1 and VC2. Antonio Jose Rodriguez may or may not be related to Calvaro.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!


APC Trial is just a tutorial Free mission on using an APC. As I mentioned before, all vehicles cost 1 CP so that poo poo where the Escort APC was 2 CP is gone now. Also we're equipped with a 30 shot turret now instead of a 7, so battles are a bit easier.



This mission is pretty much the forest maps, but with a unique double-sandbag twist, forcing you to use the APC as a barrier/sandbag destroyer if you want to survive. Otherwise it's an easy S rank.



Supply Line introduces a couple more new things.



First is how enemy ace weapons work. In VC2, you had to HOPE that the enemy ace drops the blueprints, level up the very specific weapon tree path to even access it, get the super rare materials and money along the way, and then finally make it.

In VC3, kill the enemy ace once (twice in cases like Naka as indicated by the checkboxes), and you just straight up get the weapon. A goddamn revolution.



Second, modifying anything on your infantry or vehicle is at the deployment menu.

In VC2, you had to exit out of the mission select screen just to change party members, Potentials, or modify the vehicle. You had to completely exit out and go to Lavinia to change weapons, and Rodriguez to change classes. Super time consuming.



Third. DEPLOYMENT SLOTS! We can now fill every deployment slot at the beginning of the mission, and our limit of 6 in VC2 has been upgraded to 9.



Beating the mission the first time gives you Strength Talisman, which gives a hefty +20 HP.




Getting Zakar's ace weapon gets this absurdly good rifle. Better range, accuracy, more shots, and a great status effect. On its own, it's an upgraded rifle that can occasionally kill more than it should because defense reduction can happen between shots.

Another lesson learned from VC2, in which status effect weapons had super lovely damage because apparently they thought they would be too overpowered or something. Now they're just good weapons with extra benefits.



Here's the quote I missed earlier.




And here's a major change on Armor Techs. Their shields expand to fully cover the front against bullets, letting them effectively be makeshift barriers. Very important in VC3 when interception fire is so much more powerful.

Minor change is that Lancers are back up to 6 shots.



Having one of our troops learn a class Potential opens up the Master Table, and the main incentive to switch classes. You can learn Potentials and carry one over, like in VC2. However, learning a tier of Potential with another similar Tier opens up a super Potential. For example:

High Potential: Critical Shot (Makes all shots critical)
Requirements: Learned Sighting (Scout Potential) and Kamikaze (Shocktrooper Elite).

And then you have Super Potentials, which require mastering 4 different classes. If you want to know more on the min-max stuff, everything's here.



Right, the actual mission. Not-Arlem is basically killing a specific tank within 3 turns.



Nothing noteworthy to add about the mission. Even the APC trial mixed it up a bit in design. Just have Guila fire twice on the side to complete the mission.



Actually got in a turn earlier, sadly overkill rewards aren't a thing still.




Our success lets the other military forces move up safely, pushing the Imperial line further back.



It felt so natural for us to win.
Zero casualties, huh? Who can even remember the last time we had it this easy?
Hey, Mr. Captain. Do all your battles go like this?
Hey guys, come on! It wasn't that impressive....



What?
My actual battle experience is still limited, however I have no intention of being satisfied with just this level of performance.
I intend to go over all my mistakes with a fine tooth comb and correct them by our next battle. If you have any criticism, please speak freely.
Mm....parts I'm uneasy about....about mistakes you made, ummm......
Just quit it already. If you have to think so hard about it, the answer's already clear, isn't it?
I'm 32, Giulio Rosso. I accept you, 7, as our captain.
I'm 15, Amy Apple. Pleased to meet you, Mr. captain!
I don't know if you're as strong as Mr. Gusurg but I think you're doing great!
I'm 24, Annika Alcott. When comes to fighting, please leave it to me!
56, what about you?



Goddamnit, Deit.

56 is right. I still need more time to decide.

And gently caress you, Felix.

I understand. I also don't think that I could get everyone's trust with just one battle. It's fine for those two to hold off their decision.
I'm just thankful you're giving me another chance, at least.
You don't need to be thankful for that.
No worries. Things went pretty well this time, and you seemed fired up for it.



That's true. I don't want to die yet.
Is there something wrong with 13?
Captain, you don't know? Isn't the "Angel of Death" quite well known in the army?
If you want to know the story, go ask 13 herself.



So the rest of the Nameless potentially abandoned Kurt because of Riela's presence? Interesting.

*A moment later*



Now then, please tell me your numbers.
I'm 3. Are you disappointed that I'm an old granny?
...I just asked for your number.
Hey, hey. That's the part where you're supposed to be polite and go, "All I see is a beautiful lady."
"Lady"? I don't understand what you mean?
A man without humor. How boring.
You lack education. You should be happy to be looked after by me.
Next in line is me, 11, the beautiful spy. As the Gallian Falcon...
Just wait a moment! How dare a servent speak before a master! You have some nerve!
No, no. It's the knight's place to stand before her queen, you see?
Didn't you just say you were a spy! Looks like you need some education!

*Whipping noise*

OH! This is how a knight becomes strong for his queen.



I am 23. A woman who will one day stand at the highest position of this great land. I will educate all useless men.
What do you mean?
Don't mind her, this squad's just has its quirks. I'm 45, please to meet you.
Quite complex. Yes...not simple at all. Much like history itself.
Hold on! Three lines is enough for the extras!
So she says so, I'll just apologetically say "I'm 12" and leave it at that.



I need a break.

Everyone should already know the results of our last battle. Why don't you follow his orders at least once?
I've seen his battle records. They're quite good, I guess I could give it a shot.
I don't mind hanging around to see how much education 7 needs.
My health is poor and I was just sick in bed. This time, please allow me to fight.....
*Coughs hard*
I'm just here to continue my research on the front lines so I don't have a problem.
I always thought Gusurg would be a good captain, though. Well, show me what you're made of.



Yeah, these five will watch the next battle closely. Don't waste this opportunity.
Understood. Right now, we'll begin the guerrilla attack! Everyone, move out!



Oh boy. I'll do character stats next time, but suffice to say we met the definition of "personalities." One particular to note is the blonde dominatrix called Leila Peron aka the sister of Homer Peron, the masochist of Squad 7 (Edy's Squad to be specific).

-Alfons Auclair
-Serge Liebert
-Leila Peron
-Gloria Durrell
-Valerie Aynsley

Tae fucked around with this message at 05:35 on Jun 6, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

King of Bleh posted:

I'm liking the setting hook for this game a hell of a lot more than "battle high school" from VC2. I'm crossing my fingers that we get to explore some actually interesting moral aspects of the characters via their crimes, and it's not just a bunch of "misunderstood X with a heart of gold" like last time.

Prepare to be disappointed. There's like 1 actual murderer, but a couple of them willingly joined the squad because apparently the pay is pretty good.

On a side note, tinkering with the images let me restore the color so I'm personally happy now and updates should be less grey.



to

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!


So here's a twist, we have a choice on which mission to do. Doing one eliminates the other, and they're both the same type of mission: Destroy a supply grate.



The A branch mission is in a forest map, and the enemy ace reward is a machine gun.



Meanwhile, the B branch takes place in the canyon maps. You know, the one that we beat Audrey to cut off her supplies back in VC2.



Gentleman: Increase accuracy when near allies.
Keen Mind: Increase accuracy if chosen as the 1st or 2nd unit of the turn.
Self-Concious: Decrease evasion under interception fire.

Alfons has really low accuracy for a Scout, because the game assuumes you only use him for Keen Mind. He has a lot of HP though, so he could be a tanky Scout if you need one to survive one Shocktrooper on the way.



Hidden Spirit: Increase defense if enemy outnumbers allies in the area.
Soldier's Pride: Increase defense under interception fire.
Frail Body: Decrease defense when AP is half or less.
Lost Future: Decrease accuracy when AP falls to half or less.

Look at that aim stat! A shame he has two lovely Potentials, but that won't be a problem at all once Sniper is available to us. This guy was made to kill from afar.



Sadist: Anti-infantry increases at start of attack.
Recalling Little Brother: Being on soil/grass/sand raises defense.
Temper: Decrease defense when surrounded by 3+ enemies.

Leila is a solid Shocktrooper with great accuracy for her class. She's great for clean-up duty or any situation in which she's not facing a hoard to fight off.



Shadowy Links: Increase anti-infantry during night missions.
Big Sister: Increase anti-infantry when near allies.
Bad Back: Decrease defense when crouching.

Gloria is a great unit as long as you remember to never, ever take cover with her. She's a decent Lancer because of her sky-high accuracy, but her Potentials lean more towards the shooty-bullets variety, especially during the night.



Composed: Increase accuracy under interception fire.
Genius Girl: Increase all stats.
Chatterbox: Decrease accuracy when near allies.
Curious: Decrease evasion when new enemies are seen.

Valerie's a good unit, mostly in solo operations. She's basically a female Kurt in terms of Potentials, maybe better because she doesn't have the lovely defense-lowering one.



Supply boxes are huge, green containers that take about 4-6 Lancer shots to kill. Yes, they're somehow more sturdy than tanks which take only 2 side hits to die.



Beating the B branch in the canyons gives the enemy ace AP-MG B1, an absurdly powerful turret for our tanks. For comparison's sake, our current turret only does 159 infantry/410 vehicle damage.




However, beating the A branch in the forest gives us this insane sub-machine gun to one unit. Look at it! Look how insane that is! I took the A branch because tank weapons can only be used by 1, while infantry weapons can be distributed around and that machine gun won't be outdated for quite some time.



Anyways, completing the A branch let the other military force wipe B and reach to this next story point.



It was better than I anticipated. Every order was precise and without mistake.
I wish we could've pursued farther, but otherwise it's fine.
Not good enough. There's still room from improvement.
But it's still better than me in charge, isn't it?
Hmph. You're pretty busy handling the tank, as is. I guess it's better than having you take care of two things at once.



It's still not enough. This wasn't an overwhelming victory worthy of me.
I, too think that there's a more brilliant way to win than what we have accomplished. I'm not satisfied with what we've realized so far.
The star is self-motivated. Excellent response.
If you gather everyone's opinion together and analyze the data, the conclusion is clear.



Such Insolence! Once again, you introduced yourself before me! Manners! Manners! Manners!

*Whips 3 times*

Auh! These are more effective than bullets! *Collapses*
I've still not accepted you, 7. You still seem to have room for improvement.
I don't plan on compromise. I will become the best there is until you acknowledge me.
Your conviction isn't bad at all. Do your best and improve.




As an outside evaluator, I intend to observe you from the middle of the battlefield.
I think I'll hold off on my decision for now. Older people tend to be more cynical of others.
With this, I've gained the approval of more than half the unit. I should be accepted as the official commanding officer of this unit, right?
Giulio, Amy, Annika, Alfons, Serge, and Valerie...If you add me, then out of the squad's thirteen people, you have seven supporting you.
That's cutting it close. Just in case, I'd like at least one more on my side.
Hmm, that's good. I think that girl would be likely to support you.

*Later that day*



You don't want to talk to me?
Not at all! But....I'm a person everyone hates.
*thinks* Before I ask her to support me as captain, I should do something about her situation.



However, I was told to ask you directly about this matter...Won't you tell me about it?
...Of all the units I've been assigned to in the past.....five of them have been wiped out.
Because of that, people started to say: "Units that you're assigned to will definitely be wiped out.", "You're the Angel of Death", and other things.
So why is it you just accept being called the "Angel of Death"?
Eh?
There's no relationship between you being assigned to a unit and that unit getting wiped out.
But it's a fact that units I've been assigned to have been repeatedly wiped out!
Cause is not correlation in this case.



But everyone else....
In our next mission, in order to erase that silly superstition, you're coming with me.
Eh?!
Just need to fight as usual. Leave the rest to me.


*The next day*



Even though our previous captain died while 13 was with him......
Five units wiped out, but that was the sixth captain she killed. I don't think this is a sane idea.
See...I think it's better not to do this after all...
Let me say one thing. This unit can't spare a single soldier when available. If you are opposed to fighting with 13 no matter what, I'll have you accept a condition first.
And that is?



If there's someone here with that ability, I'll have that person take 13's place without reservation. Is anyone like that here?
If it's just weight, there's a man here with the weight of two.
Apologies my queen, but I'm only 1.8 times the weight.
If you put it that way, I guess we have no choice.

Tae fucked around with this message at 21:21 on May 24, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

OddObserver posted:

Please tell me you didn't actually use lancers on the crate (armor techs do much better --- though they need to get close, of course)

Deit was too far away, I just shot it repeatedly with the Lancers at max range.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
Need a new page, so here's art and info on the nomadic Nameless camp set-up:


Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!



Time to break whatever stigma that plagues Riela here, as our target is defeating Sgt. Trooper.



The only annoying thing about the early missions is that Riela/Kurt/Imca are mandatory in very awkward deployment spaces. Riela and Kurt start at the top right of this map, expecting us to go through a grass path to capture the south base.



The other, more productive method is to capture this base....



Capture the one below here....



And pop the enemy ace that way.



The actual boss is at the south of Map 1, so a simple APC carry leads to an easy S rank victory.



Reminder: Not a professional localization.



By the way, the ace weapon? Really, really good if you didn't get it last time.



None whatsoever! That was incredible!
Looks like I don't have a choice this time but to accept you.
Indeed. For a squad this small, every soldier in it affects the outcome. However, the simple presence of a single soldier does not have such a great effect on missions that could cause an entire unit to be wiped out.
More likely, blaming the destruction of a unit on an "Angel of Death" sounds like the excuse of an incompetent commander.
This lad is blunt with words.
A more useless man would mean more opportunity for "education". How disappointing.
Fear not, my queen. There's ten thousand men in the world who'd love to be raised by you.
Are referring to those like my brother?



But those same people will look for unlucky signs, regardless.
From now on, 13 will be part of future operations. There will be no objections henceforth.
I...yes, sir!

*Later that night*



I just did what a captain of the Nameless would do. Soldiers are far more valuable when they are allowed to fight. That's my responsibility.
That's right! That's right, but...
That's not what I mean...
What do you mean by that?



After the battle, most of the squad stopped being afraid of me. I've always been looked at strangely since I was young, since I have such strange features.



It's because of you, captain! Because of that, I'm so happy....!
13, are you crying?
...Please call me Riela. And, if you don't mind, can I call you Kurt?
That's fine, but...are you crying, Riela?
Am I not allowed to cry? You're such a bully, Kurt....!



I'm not angry! Are you helping or hurting? Which is it?
*Thinks* She's angry, isn't she?


*The next day*



And for those that haven't, won't fight my orders...well, except for one.
Ace, right?
From what I can see at least, that girl has the strongest abilities as a soldier.
You're not mistaken. However, that girl has problems....
Her combat abilities are top-rate, but she doesn't open up to anyone. You have to start a conversation with her every time, and even then you'll probably get ignored regardless.
So it's not just me she ignores.
Regardless, for our future battles to succeed, we need her skills. I'll ask her to join today's operation.
I don't know why, but Ace has rarely missed a mission. She seems to have an appetite for battle.
Then let's assume she'll join anyway, and start preparations in the meantime.



The next operation is available, but we have a side scene available for viewing. The mentioned talking of No. 1.



*at a distance*

Aslone's stronghold... If it's here, I'll be facing tough opponents without a doubt.
Ah, there are you are, Ace.
....
About today's battle, I need to talk with you about.....
Nothing. *runs away*
I haven't said anything yet! Get back here!

*Imca runs to the field*



Where do you think you're going? Do you have any interest in listening or...
Not. *runs away*
Wait!

*Further into the forest*



"None", so you thought?
...!
You're pretty fast, but I have confidence in my tracking abilities.
No matter how quick you are, that weapon of yours is going to slow you down enough.
I have nothing to talk to you about.
I'm not asking anything personal about you. I just have something to tell you.
That's not necessary.
I'm not a fan of being interrupted, and you're probably the worst I've met.
I have no interest in you.



Ace, your firepower is necessary in taking Aslone's stronghold, do you not agree?
This has nothing to do with me. *runs away*
Right up to the end, from the beginning of our conversation, she's been going "No, not, or nothing". Such stubbornness, there must be some deep reason for it. I'll have to ask Gusurg later on the matter.

Tae fucked around with this message at 05:35 on Jun 6, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Internet Kraken posted:

Born looking like what? Having dumb hair? Cause having weird hair in the land of anime doesn't seem like much of an issue.

We're in the land that executes daily genocides because of hair color. white/red is a freaky thing to people, probably.

Here's some age breakdowns:
Kurt :20
Reila: 21
Imca: 17
Gusurg: 25
Giuilio: 30
Felix: 21
Alfons: 23
Deit: 27
Serge: 18
Amy: 15
Leila: 20
Annika: 17
Glorida: 62
Valerie: 28

Antonio Jose Rodriguez: 48
Ramsey Crowe: 34

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
The Imca thing slipped by me because I'm not familiar with the original japanese context. Honestly, I've been re-wording a lot of the dialogue because it's very direct-translationly. That's probably wrong to do, but I'll give a few examples of the changes.

Current:
But those same people will look for unlucky signs, regardless.



Current:
I was just trying to do what was best for the squad.



Current:
After the battle, most of the squad stopped being afraid of me.



Current:
Of course I'm not crying! You're just seeing things, Kurt!



Current:
Regardless, for our future battles to succeed, we will need to depend on her. I'll ask her to join today's operation.


Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!



The final mission of the chapter is to capture the city, with thankfully only Imca as a mandatory unit.



Kurt's group will capture the middle the base, then spawn fresh troops from there to capture the north, opening up the path towards map 4.



Meanwhile, map 3 has Imca deployed behind behind a tank again. This place will be ignored for the most part, because the design of this is having a Scout go all the way around the left path. That'll take way too long.




Incredible....! Her attacks are fast, yet precise. Does she have any weaknesses at all?
How did she acquire such skills at a young age? No doubt, she's the best of the best.
I have to think of a way to get her to follow my orders....

Kurt, you might want to calm down a bit. She's not teleporting in between maps or something, she just shot at the big, blue tank butt like everyone else.



Next turn, Gusurg continues on to capture the north base and kills the ace Zuki.




That opens up a path to the objective. Gloria shoots the tank ahead a couple of times and ends the turn.




Um...what?

Apparently the actual translation is: I can't allow myself to die in such a boring battle.



Well uh...moving on, here's the S rank. 1 turn below the requirement.



Now that you've been recognized as captain, your orders seem to be going more smoothly.
We're finally acting like a real unit. However...
Ace, right? Having her fully cooperate with us would be a huge boon.

I'm really confused on this whole deal. She's been fighting for Kurt since the beginning, unless they just mean she doesn't have these forced deployments anymore...?

Indeed. Say, Gusurg, how much do you know about Ace?



You know the Darcsen people are rejected by all countries on this continent, right?
Once upon a time, Darcsens threw the entire continent into chaos in an event called "The Darcsen Calamity". For that crime, we lost everything. We live without a homeland. Because of that, usually Darcsens tend to cooperate with one another for survival.
It's for that reason that Darcsens share a strong bond. But Ace doesn't even socialize with the other Darcsens.
I see. Anything else?
If I'm not wrong, Ace has served in this unit the longest.
But she's so young!



Ramsey, what are you doing picking up teenage chicks.

Does that mean Ace willingly entered this squad?
That weapon she uses isn't exactly standard military issue. That might have something to do with it, too.
Okay, I think I've got a pretty good grasp of the situation. I'll have another talk with her.

*Later that night*



One minute will be enough. Would you give me some time to talk?
No.
All right. Then this is just me talking to myself. I'll leave it to you whether you want to listen or not.




From here on, in order for this unit to survive, we need your abilities.

Gusurg told me you volunteered for the Nameless. And that you've been here for two years.

I think you joined this squad because you have a goal in mind.




I have no reason to answer.
Then, from here on I won't be speaking to myself. I have a suggestion for you. Won't you make a deal with me?
Hmm?
If you have some kind of objective, and the time comes when you can achieve it....The Nameless and I will definitely help you.
In exchange, for now, would you help us?
Huh?



In order to do that, I absolutely need your skills.
If this unit is something you need, even a little, then I don't think this is a bad deal at all.
...No, it's not.
Mm....does that mean you'll accept this deal?
...Listen well. I'll only say it once.



Eh?
My name.....it will serve as proof of our promise. As long as you are true to your word, I won't betray you.

Was she going to betray us at some point, otherwise...?

Your name is Imca? Does that mean you trust me?
I won't accept you breaking your promise. If you do break it...I won't guarantee your safety.
...Roger that.



7, this is strictly a business deal. I have to reason or intention to call your name.
That's fine. As long as you understand.
*Thinks* This is as good a result as I could have hoped. With this, I have enough to keep fighting.



With this, the Imperial Army divisions engaged in central and south Gallia were weakened. The Imperial Army's advance slowed, and plan for a quick conquest had to be revised....

The battle was deadlocked





:black101:

Tae fucked around with this message at 22:00 on May 24, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Clarste posted:

Speaking of translations, it's been a while since I've played this, but Imca is actually even more taciturn in Japanese and has some sort of "stop talking to me" catchphrase that she uses all the time. I can't remember exactly what it was though. Also, everyone calls her "Ace" instead of "No. 1". I have idea why they changed that.

It's No. 1 in the japanese text as well even though they say Ace in the voice clippets. I think they translated off a japanese transcript.

This is Imca's No:



And is Imca's "Not Interested"

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
Man, translation's a fickle beast. I took a look at that other VC3 translation and it took a much different approach to words.

quote:

Without the captain this wouldn't...I'm just thankful!
No. 13, are you crying?
...My name is Riela. If you don't mind, can I call you Kurt?
Of course. In that case, are you crying, Reila?
Of course I'm not crying! You're just seeing things, Kurt!
You're not crying, but you're angry, Reila?
I'm not angry! Are you trying to solve my problems or make fun of me?!
*Thinks* Did I do something wrong?

It's because of you, Commander! Because of that, I'm so happy....!
Are you crying, Thirteen?
Please call me Riela. And, if you don't mind, can I call you Kurt?
That's fine, but...are you crying, Riela?
Am I not allowed to cry? Man, you're such a bully, Kurt....!
It's fine to cry but...are you angry, Riela?
I'm not angry! Man, are you kind or unkind? Which is it?
*thinks* She's angry, isn't she?

Now I'm not sure which translation to use.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
Well it's an experiment that might blow up in my face, but I'll use this other script with some exceptions (Other script calls Kurt an ensign, which is clearly wrong). I'll start re-editing all the updates so far, since if people want to see the patched translation, they can go watch Apepresident's LP.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
Alright, all the updates except the latest one are replaced with mostly the other translation. Take a read, a lot of things are different including Imca's pun-games, and Leila is toned down a bit.

edit: All updates are re-finished now.

Tae fucked around with this message at 06:04 on May 24, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
I'll try to clean up the translation, since I didn't "localize" it like I did with the original translation. Also gives me an excuse to replace the portraits at least.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Roobanguy posted:

theres a dating sim part in this game?

must have not gotten that far when i played.

It's barely that. It's literally just choosing Imca or Reila specific variations of scenes. There's no dialogue choice, no S link-like, nothing. It's basically VC1's Welkin/Alicia type of romance.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
All updates now "localized." Not a professional, so results may vary but it should be smoother to read now. As far as major change, Imca is referred to as Ace instead of 1 most of the time.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!



Early March, the Gallian Army's counterattack did not work as effectively as they hoped, and had dissolved into a war of attrition across central Gallia. The Imperial Army initiated a plan to push the invasion further to the west. It was only a matter of time before more than half of Gallia would be conquered.




The orders say they're the Militia's 3rd battalion.
Those guys are fighting in central Gallia and are deadlocked with the Imperials. They don't have enough manpower and called for reinforcements, but the Gallian Army has its hands full as usual.
In 96 hours, You are to break through the deadlock and reinforce their operations. Sounds easy enough, right?
It's not like I have a choice.
Hey, now you're getting into the Nameless spirit!
Oh, by the way, the road to the militia is littered in enemy landmines. Going around it will take too long, but I'm sure you'll figure it out.
You're not making this any easier, are you?
In a nutshell, just go through a bunch of mines, some dozen enemy squads, yada yada.
Not too much, right?
*Thinks* This certainly explains why we got this mission....

*Later that day*



Go through a minefield? Easy for them to say!
And there's no time to disable the mines? Why?
We only have 96 hours to rendezvous with the militia. Going around or clearing the mines will take took much time.
So we just need to not step on them, right?
You're forgetting we have a tank and convoy with us. Not exactly ballerinas.
All of you can charge in yourselves. I'll watch the performance from behind.



Use your heads, guys! This mission is suicide!
Charging in recklessly isn't exactly your style, Kurt. So what's your plan?
It's simple. We'll just simply eliminate the Imperials stationed around the minefields.
Are you serious?!
Do we have enough time for that?
Once we defeat the enemy camps, we'll collect any supplies they leave behind. I'll take care of the rest after that.



How confident are you in this plan?
This is the safest route to success.
Are you sure about this?
I'm with you! I'll do my very best.
I'm in, as well. If no one else has a better plan, then listen to the captain.
Me three! We're wasting time otherwise!
Still, even if we did get there in time, what's the point of sending a single squad for reinforcement?
Probably just to have us as explosive decoys.
Terrific. Our last captain died because of HQ's impossible orders and this'll be no different.



And I will make sure of it as your captain.
Hm, so you say. If what you said is all talk, I won't back to "educate" you.
You piqued my interest, though. And for that, I'll join the operation.
So 23 is in. Anyone else?
Fine, I'll go!
You betcha!
It's not like I have a choice now, do I?
Looks like the captain has his squad ready.
Let's all do our best!





So it looks like we just fight in the forest, past a bridge, into a canyon full of mines, and destroy a half-dozen platoons along the way. I don't see a problem with this.



Please give a warm welcome to the newest member to join the Nameless.



Before I was transferred here, I was a nurse. If you have any troubles, don't hesitate to ask for help.

So there's a few new things available to us in this chapter. First, Kurt's been promoted to captain and is now a CP leader. That means we get that extra CP every turn that Kurt is out on the field.



Orders start rotating in the Training Grounds, and of course we can still learn Orders once we level certain stats to a specific level.



Pure Heart: Increase accuracy when near an ally.
Equal Heart: Increase accuracy when near a non-Gallian.
Star-Crossed: Interception fire decreases defense and evasion.
His Shadow: Decrease accuracy and evasion.

Clarissa has sky-high accuracy, but some lously Potentials. You'd think Equal Heart would make her a great Shocktrooper, but Star-Crossed makes her one of the worst. Not exactly a good unit.



The shop has a new item to purchase, the sniper rifle. Buying this unlocks the sniper class in the Training Grounds, which basically means it's time for Serge to get useful.



Goddamn, almost 40 accuracy.



Beyond the usual upgrade tiers to weapons and vehicles, armaments are available to buy. The Constructer Arm is finally available, opening up shortcut city.



The free mission is a variation of the last mission, except it's at night.



The enemy ace weapon, a two-defeat requirement, is this insane turret gun. For reference, our current turret is: 11 anti-infantry/42 anti-armor/44 accuracy. That makes the APC a legitimate killer, something that it struggled to do until now.



Last but not least, Kurt has a special ability he can use that eats up 1 CP and SP (The silver coins under the CP stars).




Direct Command can bring along up to 2 other characters by initiating co-op, effectively making him a APC of sorts. Normal rules such as ally-fire apply, but mostly it's to bring along a slow unit to areas that the APC can't travel like alleyways.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!



First mission of the operation, and it's pretty much the same maps as last time.



So far, APC still reigns king as the tank hasn't seen much work since the middle of VC2.



Let's talk about the major problems with Kurt's special ability. In Free missions, he has 3 SP available. In story missions, 1.



Direct Command also doesn't carry over ladders or anything that has you disappear from the screen for a second.You would think map 3 screams "Use Direct Command to capture that base!" Nope. The only useful thing aside from being a mini-APC is that you can kill most soldiers behind sandbags with the added firepower, I guess.



Beating the enemy ace, Holy Blessed (Yeah, I know), gives you an Engineer pistol. For reference, the current pistol is: 20 anti-infantry/43 anti-armor/62 aim/100 range. Not game-changing like the Scout and Shocktrooper weapons, but an upgrade nonetheless.





Hello there. It's been a while, Maxy.

Your highness, General Jaeger will be arriving soon.
I see.
My apologies for living in such a spartan palace. Do you need anything, Highness?
Do not worry about such trifles. The only thing I want from you is to bring me victory.
Yes, your Highness. Forgive my rudeness.



You keep His Highness waiting, and yet speak with such attitude? Such insolence!
It's all right. Stand down, Selvaria.
...Yes, sir. As your Highness commands.



The northern army's current operation to conquer Fouzen is underway. The coastal and harbor facilities have already been taken over, as well. Thanks to this, transporting the ragnite from Gallian mines via sea to the Empire is now possible.
You seem to be taking your time with that. Are the defenses at Fouzen as tough as they say?
Yes, but our concentrated attacks on certain key points have minimized casualties. This operation will ensure our victory for the future.



The southern advance has been proceeding smoothly since last month. We've captured the strategic point of Yuell and established a base at Kloden.
However, the south has many rivers and not very many bridges to cross. At the same time, the southern Gallian forces are using the Gassenarl Fortress as a base.
For that, we just have to lay siege to it and cut off their supplies.
Wouldn't it be better to destroy them sooner rather than later?
That's what I'd like to do, but our central advance needs attention as well.



Your Highness, ever since the Vasel bridge was retaken, the central front has been deadlocked. The bulk of the Gallian forces seem to be concentrated there. Most likely to defend Randgriz. If we take advantage of the situation, the north and south will be easy captures.
How disappointing. The original plan was to take Randgriz within a month.




However, our army already controls over half of Gallia. Victory is inevitable.
If our central force can link up with the forces in Fouzen and the Kloden supply base, we'll no longer need to rely on the supply lines from Ghirlandaio Fortress.
With that, we will win the battle of attrition outright.
I promise His Highness will have victory!



That was a lot of words saying "We're awesome, gonna win, gently caress whoever got that bridge back for Gallia."




Seems Kurt already has a plan to get past the mines. Not sure how destroying a box of supplies is the same as collecting supplies, but I'm not a Genius.



The mission is the canyon level with conditions being at night and flooded, making some routes impossible to traverse.



Otherwise, easy money and milking the turns to get the most out of it.



Beating Taba the Behemoth gives a similarly powerful tank turret that we could've had at the branch split, so even doubly regret if you chose that over the sniper sub-machine gun.




We've collected the Imperial supplies. So what are they for?
Sorry to keep you all waiting. We'll begin crossing the minefield.
Exactly how are we supposed to traverse thorough unharmed, again?
Have a look at this.



Huh? They look like two identical maps.



Really?!
We found them among the things I told you to gather from the enemy supplies.
That mountain of trash? That thing was filled with thousands of papers!
Where did you find the time?
I'm a fast reader.
And you did that while still commanding us in battle, just how could you....
The two maps were taken from two different enemy camps.

Ah, that explains the two missions. He wanted to make sure the cross-information was correct.

I see, the enemies have to pass through the mine area at some point. By combining the maps, the full layout's revealed. Your gamble paid off.
But are the maps reliable?
If there's any mistake, we go "BOOM", right?
I know. That's why I volunteer myse--



Riela?
I can't allow the captain himself sacrifice himself for our safety. That would be humiliating.
Also, if I go, no one will complain. So I think I'm the one most suited for this.
13, you...

*The rest stay silent*



Yes, sir!

*Later at the minefield*



Moving out! *Runs rowards the mines*
Can the "Angel of Death" really walk through this valley alive?
Idiot, don't jinx her!

*Farther back in the group*

Kurt, are you worried?
Why? I believe that map is accurate.
Even if that map is accurate, it's possible they may have laid mines in the wrong place.
That's true, but...

*Time passes*



*Over radio* This is Riela! I've made it through the minefield! The map is accurate!
Understood. Hold your position. We'll be right there!
Yes, sir!

*After everyone made it past the mines*



That's should be our line!
You're quite bold, Riela. Impressive.
Well since you aren't the "Angel of Death" anymore, how about we just call you, "Angel?"
Everyone, that's a bit too much!

*At a distance*

All right, we've broken through the minefield. Next, we rendezvous with the 3rd Battalion.
Hey, what are you doing? You've got to go compliment that girl.
Eh? Why? Riela was only doing her duty as a squad member.
Sheesh, for a fast reader, you're pretty slow on reading the atmosphere. Hurry up and give her praise!
....All right.

*Later that day*



Yes?
It's not much, but I just wanted to tell you that you did well.
Thanks to you, everyone made across the minefield safely. You have my sincerest gratitude.
Thank you! I didn't think you would praise me just for that. I'm really glad!
Really?
I'm just relieved I made a difference to everyone!



*Riela runs off*

Glad, huh?
Believing in someone is a powerful strength. Riela believed in you and walked through that minefield unafraid. There's a really deep meaning to that, you know.
Is there...?
Kurt, you really are a slow reader after all.

Tae fucked around with this message at 05:36 on Jun 6, 2015

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!

Glazius posted:

Do we actually meet more militia groups or is that one of those offscreen things?

But I don't really understand the whole "no time to remove mines" thing. Can't Engineers/Armor Techs do that for free while they move?

I'm not sure what you mean on the first question.

The 2nd question is answered with "Never put gameplay and story mechanics together." Otherwise you question why a single tank isn't the most powerful weapon in the war and a dozen of them would win outright.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
So I need a new page, but all I have are horrible reminders that the artist is still obsessed with breast ratio.

Reila art concepts



Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!
Please don't spam it like last time.

edit: Seriously, please don't.

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!



If you didn't get the hints already, the militia we're supporting is Eleanor's unit. Squad 7 is part of this, and this meeting takes place shortly after Operation Cloudburst.

I am the captain of Squad 422, number 7. Can you debrief me on the current situation?
As of now, there's a large group of Imperials facing my troops. We're currently holding the line here. Failing to protect this place will give the Imperials another path to retake Vasel bridge.
So we must absolutely not lose this position! However, because HQ is too busy trying to mount a counterattack, our situation's been largely ignored.



To put it simply, yes. Our forces are at a disadvantage, but there's a small chance for us. Although the enemy seems large, their attacks are weak and show signs of fatigue.
If only HQ would send more reinforcements. Without them, we're giving the enemy time to rest and resupply. It's a total embarrassment!
I understand the situation. We'll help break the stalemate.
Oh?



They're unfamiliar with Gallian geography, so they're on constant edge for ambushes.
Guerilla tactics, you mean.
The enemy is surrounded by forest. If we go around, it should be possible to attack their flank.
Wait. Are you planning to rout them with just a single unit?
No, this isn't a true offensive. Just a feint.



A frontal assault? No...our forces have been on the defensive this entire time.
Suddenly switching to the offensive would raise the flag that your attack is a feint.
Then we'll just have to make the feint really explosive. The Imperial army has the advantage, so normally there's no need to take risks and fight a dangerous battle.
However, if the commander thinks it's a surprise attack, then he'll call a retreat.
The theory certainly makes sense, but what if it's seen through?



Hmm...
Understood. Your mission is approved.



Please rendezvous at the designated area, and cooperate for a successful operation.
Understood. We'll prepare to leave immediately.

*The Nameless leave*

I've heard that the Nameless was a squad dispatched to take the bullet for others....but the real thing seems to be more than that...



So we got branching paths again, with the only twist being that they give out a second chance to get an enemy ace weapon you missed. B Branch gives the rifle, while A branch gives the machine gun. You can't get a second copy of it, so don't bother killing the aces if you already got both of them.



I took the B branch because whatever, it's nighttime Arlem. The big, new thing in VC3 are those orange areas called Livefire. If you step on it, mortar starts firing on you immediately. The damage isn't too bad to infantry (like 4-5 hits to kill a Scout), but it absolutely destroys an APC in seconds.



While we were killing enemies on our side, Eleanor's unit took care of business on the A branch. Now it's time to eliminate one more squad before meeting up at the rendezvous point.



The map's another forest area variation, except it's at night.



The enemy ace this time is a tank, but Guilio's own ace weapon is accurate enough to take it down from max range.



Eh, it's a slightly better mortar canon but mortars suck for the most part. However, Kurt just became the first to promote which should make battles a bit easier.



By the way, that snazzy looted gatling turret is strong enough to kill tank blue butts, so currently our APC can kill tanks. It's pretty cool.




Isara's still alive. This is real early in VC1.

Black military uniform....That must be the 422nd unit that Captain Varrot told us about.
It's an unusual military uniform, isn't it?
I feel like they're different from the Regular Army and the Militia. Just who are they?
Well, they did come up with this plan. They must be incredible people.



Nice to meet you.
Captain of the 422nd unit, number 7. Pleased to meet you as well.
7? What an odd name.
It's not a name, just a number. Our unit doesn't exist in actual military records.
You don't exist? Are you like chameleons?
Welkin! Stop being so rash!



Blending into the natural world, disappearing from existence, it's incredible! They're amazing creatures.
Ah, except they can't change their colors into all white or black as these colors don't exist in nature....
...Is he all right?



Without realizing it, he somehow starts going on about nature and animals....
Sorry about that. When our Commander gets started on animals, he just can't shut his face.
Sorry, force of habit. Let's begin the operation now.
Please do so....



*thinks* He looks easygoing, but his squad got here earlier than us. He's no ordinary man, that's for sure.

*A moment later*



We'll launch a signal flare for the 3rd battalion.
Then we should prepare a time and place for the signal.
My suggestion is to split up into two groups and launch flares from two different locations.
No. If you fire off two flares, then the enemy will become suspicious.
Then how about splitting into two teams. One team shoots the flare while the other attacks the enemy?
Yes, that sounds good. The most important part is synchronizing our parts for the operation.



Although they can only be seen in the summer...
Welkin! Again with the insect stories!
Oh, I used to raise gun beetles!
13, don't encourage him.
Second Lt. Gunther, let's continue planning this operation.




We think it's a small squadron.
This is bad. We don't have time to conceal ourselves.
Second Lt. Gunther, we should prepare for combat.
Yes. We'll continue this later.

*Moments later*



The enemy approaching is definitely Imperial, but they seem a little different.
Has the enemy spotted us yet?
Not yet. They're still on the move while we're camped here. But the strange thing is, the enemy is approaching from the south.
The south? They're not a recon unit from the northern forces?
It's probably a different squad. Either way, if we don't take care of them, it's going to be disastrous.
Then we'll eliminate them before the main forces figure out we're here! Prepare for combat!

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!


Their numbers are unknown. What should we do?
A Gallian squad...are they must be planning to attack our allies' flank? Interesting. Let's engage them.
Shouldn't we notify our allies in the north?
We're on a covert mission. Our presence should be hidden even from our allies. Furthermore, they're quite far from us, so let's try to take care of them quietly.
Roger that, Captain Dahau.
All units, prepare for combat! Our objective is the Gallian unit in front of us.

*Back to the Gallian forces*



*Explosions heard from afar*

The enemy has already begun their attack!
Tch! Despite spotting them first, they've already seized the initiative!



They're fast!
Looks like this squad needs to improve its response time...



The Imperial persecution of Darcsens is supposed to be even worse than Gallia. Just what is that squad?
Put that thought on hold! All units, prepare for combat!



So we're facing...Imperial Darcsens. That's certainly a new one, and suddenly makes the Darcsen Bond Potentials kinda poo poo since they'll buff the enemies. This Darcsen squad even has their own black icon to separate themselves from the rest of the board.

On a side-note, Calamity Raven is the most ironic name ever in context. That's like having a German All-Jew squad in WW2 called the Holocaust Eagles or something.



Well good and bad news. Good news, Squad 7 is going to help us on this operation, bad news is our own vehicle is unavailable which means no transporting or ladder construction. Mission is to take 3 bases across multiple maps.




The Nameless start on one map, while Squad 7 starts in apparently the right flank.



*Over radio* Number 7, can you hear me? We're all ready on this side. We can start at any time. When you're ready, send a signal!
*Thinks* The mission's already started. Any more delays will put us in a deeper hole.
*Over radio* The tank isn't ready, but we don't have time. Move out! Second Lieutenant Gunther has begun his attack, along with Squad 422.
*Over radio* Understood. The enemy flank is located here. Begin the bombardment!
*Over radio* Acknowledged!



Second Lieutenant Gunther immediately took charge of this operation. He's quite the commander.

So let's check to see what Squad 7 is like in VC3 land.



Strong-Willed: Halves interception fire.
Big Sister: Increase anti-infantry when near allies.
Power of Song: Increase anti-infantry when near allies.
Desert Allergy: Drains HP over time while on sand.

Rosie's Choker gives +10 accuracy/evade.



Country Bred: Earthy terrain increases accuracy/anti-infantry.
Born Leader: Increase defense when near 3+ allies.
Panicky: Interception fire reduces anti-infantry.
Rosie Hater: Decrease anti-infantry if Rosie is nearby.

Idol Ribbon gives +5 Evade/anti-infantry, +10 anti-armor.



Compassionate: Fully restore HP when it falls to zero.
Camaraderie: Increase evasion when near units of same class.
Veggie Maniac: Increase anti-infantry/armor when on top of soil/grass/sand.
Child of Nature: Increase defense when on top of stone.

Largo's Veggies give +30 HP.



Maternal: Increase evasion when next to allies.
Baker: Increase anti-infantry when on stony terrain.
Mysterious Body: Fully recover HP after attacking.
Pouting: Decrease anti-infantry under interception fire.

Alicia's Scarf gives +10 accuracy, +5 evade.



Nature Lover: Soil/grass/sand increase defense.
Big-Hearted: Evasion/defense increases when close to enemies.
Sibling Ties: Increase accuracy/defense when near Isara.
Curious Mind: Decrease evasion when new enemies are seen.

So overall, a stacked team. Welkin will be the most important member because he's the only vehicle available.



The Edelweiss is basically the equivalent of a heavy tank, being immune to small mines damage and tank fire scratches it at best. This mission is full of tanks, which is troubling because the only other method to 2-shot tanks is using the enemy ace Lancer weapon via side-shots.



5 turns to S rank this is rough, because a majority of your time is getting this map conquered at a reasonable time.



This map is slightly easier on the Nameless side because there's only 1 tank and few troops despite attacking head on.



Many tanks, an enemy ace, and turns later....



Seriously, a lot of turns later because heavy tanks have poo poo AP and there's two tanks on this map.



Finally, we get to the last map and camp to capture.



Ah, it seems like the enemy has flanked us.
Begin targeting the area with bombardment!
Firing artillery in a forest is different than on an open battlefield.
Especially on enemies so pathetic and aimless. If only I could fight a worthy foe.
Yes, commander. Worthy foes would raise our reputation high!
...Yes, of course. The operation has begun. Don't get nervous now.



So if you didn't realize, this mission is a difficulty spike like the first time we met V2's back in VC2. The Calamity Ravens are just tougher and stronger than most troops so far, and Dahau is incredibly deadly by himself.



Edelweiss, who barely takes a blip from tanks, is almost dead from 2 shots off Dahau's lancer rockets.



Luckily, Serge came through and put two bullets into Dahau's head and end the biggest threat of the mission.



Something that I was told about Kurt's Direct Command is that it automatically goes to a high AP (Scout-like), regardless of AP fatigue. Also, classes like Lancers and Snipers that normally can't co-op fire on attacks.

Of course, Giulio missed so not exactly the best example here.



I took it slow, but I got the enemy ace which is all that really matters.



The ZM-SGX is the first ace weapon that isn't an upgrade, unless you really want your sniper to be a bad Lancer.

Also forgot, Troop Veterans aren't super special like their VC2 counterparts with extra grenades. They're just tougher.



No, if you didn't get their attention, then we wouldn't be able to hit their flank.
If it was just either of our squads by ourselves, we'd be toast.
Your unit was able to take advantage of the situation quickly. It was incredible.
That's just because I have so many reliable comrades. Having that is better than any praise I get.
What do you mean?
Comrades brought together by a shared feeling to protect our country, regardless of class, age, and race.
There's also a lot of fighting as well, but it's the kind of fighting that they say comes from getting along so well.
Hey, we're not fighting anymore. Nowadays it's just to vent at friends.



Is that so? I'll keep that in mind.
By the way, Number 7, are you going to tell me your real name?
That's classified information. It would only get you into trouble if you knew.
It's a pretty strict squad, huh?
It's certainly not a place to spend your life in, I'll tell you that.
I see. Well then, let's get back to that operation of ours. Shall we?
After you.

*Meanwhile*



But then it would be quite a boring war.
Captain Dahau, should we contact the main forces?
It's not necessary. The proud Imperial soldiers receiving aid from Darcsens would take it as an insult.
Let's return to base.
Sir!

*Back to the Gallians*



*Flares fired*



Leave it to me!
Graaaaaaaaaaah!
Take this!
I'm not losing to you, Rosie!

*Multiple explosions pepper the Imperials*



We confirm gunfire! There's enemy units in both directions.



*Gallian army charges*



A pincer attack?!
Commander! Your orders!
Damnit! Call the retreat! We don't need to fight them here! Fall back to the east, the Gallians won't pursue us that far!

*After the battle*



Do not chase them! Keep your distance as you pursue!
Yes, ma'am! *leaves*
The deadlock is over....In any case, that captain who called himself 7....
For him to quickly propose this dangerous mission and actually pull it off....
Thanking a number just isn't the same as a name, is it?



The Imperial army gathered forces at the central front for a counterattack, was stopped in its tracks by the Gallian army. Their defensive line prevented the Imperials from running through the country.

This was the moment when the tides swung in favor of Gallia....

Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!


So this is a good time to introduce Character Fragments, this game's version of classmate missions. This is mainly because there's a 2 month gap between the Squad 7 operation and the next chapter.

Fragments are handled differently than other games like VC2 or Fire Emblem, in that you unlock the whole sidestory at once (Barring a couple exceptions). They're accessed by going to the game map and pressing the right/left triggers. To unlock them, just use a character 35 times.



There's also DLC like Kurt's First Battle but that's all Japanese, so not that interesting to show.





Hm? What's this?
It's fish. Are these army rations?
It's a special treat. I just happen to find some good ingredients today.
This is sauteed fuji fish. Despite being a river fish, there's no muddy taste. Just add some broth seasoning, some herbs and then roast. It's a delicious dish.
Wow, smells great! I can't wait to dig in!
Mmm, it really does smell great. Did you really make this, Giulio?
Yep! Eat as much as you want guys, cause these fishies only come up at this time of year.



I didn't expect such a gourmet cuisine in the middle of war.
But...when did you find time to go fishing?
I actually slipped out last night and went to the riverbank.
Giulio, be careful! It'd be all over if the captain finds out!
Sorry, I just wanted everyone to taste this season's special fuji fish.
If I get caught, so be it.
Why all the passion for cooking?



That's a bit excessive for an army chef.
Did you work at a fancy restaurant before this?
Nah, I just traveled all over Gallia in order to research all sorts of foods. I hope to someday travel around the world as well.
Hard to do now with a war going on, and all.
Right.
Eh?
Mm? What's wrong, Amy?
The food is good, yet 56 isn't eating
He isn't?
Yeah, he hasn't taken a bite.
Huh. Hey, 56!



Why so quiet? Come over here and enjoy the food! I promise it's my best work, yet!
Don't mind me.
Oh come on, don't say it like that! Try a little bite! Everyone else loves it! Just a small taste.
Just a bite?
Yeah, sure!

*A moment passes*



In the end, it's just food.
Hah hah...okay, now I get it.
What are you laughing about?
Nothing. I just remembered something important. Everyone has different tastes, right?
I think that's the most important thing to realize as a chef.
...Whatever you say.




What?
I forgot to ask you what you think of my food. How'd you like the sauteed Fuji fish?
...Go away.
Don't say that. Come on, this is important to me.
Sorry. My tongue is dull.
Now, now. Let's be critical here.
....



Hmm...I see. Do Darcsens generally prefer less salt, then?
Are you interested in the kinds of food Darcsens eat?
Food is food, and Darcsen cuisine has its own style that interests me.
After all, cooking is something I bet my life on.



That's right, I never did say how I got here. Have you heard of Black Diamond?
Isn't that a high quality cooking ingredient? That's all I know.
That's right! Black Diamonds are the eggs of the horned shark.
It was believed that it would balance your yin and yang, a panacea if you will. It was quite a precious commodity.
However. there's been a steep drop in the number of horned sharks captured, which has sky-rocketed prices. It's become so rare that it's thought of as a dream ingredient.



Don't tell me....
Right! I snuck into the warehouse and took some.
Ordinary soldiers don't get to eat anything decent, but this school gets to taste divinity. Unfair, if you asked me.
As I always say, you're not a real chef if you don't go for the best taste. The allure of the dream ingredient was worth it by itself.



Sent to a penal squad for stealing fancy ingredients. Are you a moron?
Haha, perhaps. I have no regrets, though. Now I get to put happy smiles on faces with my cooking here.
Oh?
Ah, sorry. Just thinking out loud.



They use amber mushrooms in their dishes, right?
...Say again?
I always wanted to make amber mushroom soup! I heard they tastes great!
....
Whoops! Sorry for babbling a bit there. See ya around! *leaves*
...How would he know about amber mushrooms? That's something only Darcsens should know. Where did he learn about it?

Giulio design sketches

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Tae
Oct 24, 2010

Hello? Can you hear me? ...Perhaps if I shout? AAAAAAAAAH!



Since this village is close to Imperial border, the enemy forces will be stronger than usual.
Don't get careless just because we're working with the army now. Understood?
Got it! And after our victory, I'll cook up a celebration feast!
I'll keep that in mind.
*Thinks* A Darcsen village...maybe I can grab some mushrooms!

*Meanwhile*



Why did we get assigned to this stupid place?
And we have to support the Nameless as well. What a joke. Can't they handle this themselves?

*Back at the Nameless camp*



This is usually how it goes when we work with the army.
Captain, are we really going to wait on those lazy bums?
Kurt! If they're not going to move, let's just lead the charge ourselves! It'll get dark if we wait too long!
Giulio? I thought you didn't like fighting....
Hey now! I'm still a super loyal soldier of Gallia, aren't I?
It would be nice if the rest of the army had his attitude.
Puh-lease. I bet it's just food-related.
Look, are we starting the operation or not?!





Welp, I can't read that.



The mission is to eliminate everyone across 4 maps. The mission is the mountain area, the same type of area that Baldren did his weekly ethnic cleansing.



This is a very long map with lots of tanks to kill, and MG Turrets as new foes to the Nameless.



The S rank was like 4 turns, which I clearly didn't hit. Killing tanks definitely takes longer when your lancers can't survive a reach-around the blue butts anymore.



The army came specifically to save you. You Darcsens better show your appreciation!

*At a distance*

They're talking like they did everything when we did all the work....
No surprise.

*Back to the village*

Thank you for saving us!
W-Would you like to stay and eat some dinner, sirs?
Eat with you? Hah! You're hilarious!
No matter how hungry I'd be, your Darcsen food will never touch my lips. All you do is eat bizarre things, anyway!
Even trash would be tastier! Ha ha ha!



And who's going to make us? A Darcsen? From the Nameless, even?
Forget about it, 6. There's no point arguing with army people.
I can't just ignore the constant abuse in front of me! I don't care who it is!
What are you fussing about now? You're just a Nameless!
Hey, hey, hey! I can tell you the Nameless can do one thing!
Eh?



Who the heck are you?!
Sorry, Giulio, but I suddenly don't have much of an appetite.
Nonsense! I heard you guys were arguing about food.
You two should come as well! Even the army must be starving by now, huh?
And why would we eat your food?!
Hey, it's not like it smells bad or anything!
Tell you what, if you don't like it, then I'll give you guys this exquisite bottle of wine.



Ha. Well, if you're giving away free alcohol, I guess it won't hurt.

*Moments later*

All right, dinner's served!
What is this? Isn't it just soup?
Just take a sip! Don't judge it till you try it!
Well, it just looks so bland...*Sips* Eh?
This is....
Ah, the soldiers seem confused.
Come on, guys! The rest of you eat up!



This taste...it's amber mushrooms, isn't it.
What's that?
It's a rare mushroom that's only found in Darcsen dishes. It's normally sour and stinky to taste, but the flavor is great once you learn how to cook it right.
This is...Darcen food?
Darcens are pretty good at drawing out the best out of ingredients. That was an important lesson I learned from my travels.
Now if you hand me your plates, I'll serve up some gravy risotto as well!
The smell is mouth-watering. Who could have imagined we'd eat such delicious things on the battlefield?



*The soldiers take a bite*

Mm, not bad.
To think food like this existed...
What do you think? Taste good, right? Prejudice limits your experience on all the wonderful things to eat in the world.
Hey, is there any more of that fried stuff?
Me, too. I can't get enough of it!
Ah, all right! Please wait a moment!



Haha, I don't want to take all the credit. Those amber mushrooms did a good enough job on their own.

*After a long dinner*

Hoooo...it's been so long since I had such a feast.
I'm stuffed as well. Thanks a lot.
Hey, don't thank me. Thank the villagers for teaching me all their secrets.
Then, thank you ma'am. It was delicious, and I would like to ask another helping next time we patrol here.
Y-Yes! Of course!



Haha, looks like everyone's too full to listen.
Admit it. You planned this from the start, didn't you?
...Figures.
I always say, food makes the entire world smile.




Giulio's passion for cooking has given him full HP recovery after an attack.

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