Cyber soldier fighting tonight: Let's Play - Super Robot Wars ZEEEEET!

[Prime32]

No, it's not a secret. I just made that line up... like many others, as Tengu said. But the part about Sandman having to sell his castle is in the script. Don't worry, he gets it back.

Without his castle, where does he keep all the maids? I mean, he sends about two dozen just to get food supplies.

[Cubey]

The maids follow Sandman wherever he goes. Even if he turns into a homeless bum, forced to sleep on a train depot, they will be there for him.

Charisma, people. Charisma.

A bit more on the script: Like I said in the OP, I will make my own lines quite often. Especially when it makes a good joke, or when I have only little idea of what's going on. Then expect a new script, made up wholesale. As long as it makes sense, of course. Don't expect this to turn into an epic tale of Harry's struggles to become a master puppeteer or anything like that.

[Cubey]

Chapter 14: The Gathering Strangers

This time, action moves to snowy plains of north America. No water here, but I forgot to remove the Screw Module from Setsuko's unit. Ehh, we should be fine, right? Right?

Introduction:

Spoiler

Show

On board Freeden, a land battleship, currently patrolling near Fort Severn.


Jamil: We've reached the rendezvous point. Now we wait. If everything goes well, Garrod should reach us soon.


Carris: Garrod... just as Fort Severn is important for me, so is Tiffa for him. Did he manage to protect her, I wonder?


Tonya: Don't worry a thing, I know these two lovebirds! They will be juuust fine.
Jamil: Less chatter, everyone. We will know when they get here.
Tonya: Try as you might to hide it, Captain, I can still see you're worried about them!


Sarah: Captain, the scouts have returned! They have a report for us.
Jamil: Turn the screen on.


Witz: We found some unknowns! These guys opened fire on my Airmaster when I got too close. Bastards, who do they think they are?


Roybea: Moonrace, probably. We can't catch a break from them now that they're expanding around here.
Jamil: I see. They are most likely preparing to invade Fort Severn. All hands, prepare for contact with the enemy! We will face them in direct battle! Freeden, move out.


Shingo: Aye-aye, Captain! Freeden, flank speed.
Carris: Then, I will prepare my Vertigo. Defending Fort Severn is my duty after all.

A classic bad guy invasion scenario. Well, not quite. Things are much more complicated than that:



"Dianna": Captain Phil, explain yourself! Why have you sent your forces to attack an Earthrace town?
Phil: Queen Dianna, our supplies are running low. The Federation and aliens limit our actions on all fronts but this accursed, cold place. If we do not expand here, your people will starve!
"Dianna": There must be a peaceful resolution.
Milan: Your Majesty, I am afraid the time for peaceful resolutions is over. The captain is right, our supplies are critically low. Moreover, a recent batch of new Moonrace citizens arrived from our capital. These people need land, and they need food.
"Dianna": And if the Earthrace is not willing to help us, you intend to take it by force?
Phil: There's no other choice!
"Dianna": Leave me for now, I need to think. Aah... they stopped trusting my orders. Did they finally see through my disguise? Kihel Heim... what trouble did you get yourself into?
Harry: Milady, may I come in?
"Dianna": Certainly, Lieutenant. Harry... do you trust me?
Harry: Of course, Your Majesty. I will be by your side as long as there is life within me.
"Dianna": At least you remain loyal. I'm so glad...


Poe: Hey, move it! All soldiers, get in your mobile suits!


Corin: Hello. Did you see any Gundams around here?
Poe: Hey, big guy! Into your WaD, on the double!
Corin: Huuh? Did you say anything?
Poe: Wait... Corin Nander? What are you doing on Earth? I thought you were frozen!
Corin: That's old times! The Queen is nice and let me free, and now I'm here to have my vengeance on the Gundam! I don't have to listen to you, little girl. Good-bye!
Poe: Grrr! Damn that Corin... at least I have these mercenaries. Earthrace or not, they better listen to me.

And the mercenaries in question are:


Corin: You find any Gundams, you leave them to me, got it? They're mine!
Setsuko: Umm... okay. I guess?
Poe: Ah, mercenaries! There you are!
Setsuko: Yes?
Poe: Don't "yes" me! Your lack of discipline... it's sickening! We're attacking an Earthrace outpost now, get ready for combat! I will not suffer any disobedience!
Setsuko: I'm starting to wonder if this was such a good idea after all...
Ennil: If you don't like it, why did you sign up for this job in the first place? Setsuko?
Setsuko: I cannot help it! Pilotting robots is the only thing I can do. I ran out of money and... I still have to continue my journey! There is...
Ennil: Oooh?
Setsuko: Umm, a guy I have to find. We got seperated six months ago...
Ennil: During the dimension crash, huh? Cheer up, Setsuko. If this is for a goal of yours, then you can tough it up and endure for its sake. Well... I won't hold it against you if you flee in the night, either.
Setsuko: You... understand me? Thanks, Ennil!
Ennil: Don't mention it. It's always about the guys, huh? I need to find one too... but not for friendly talk, oh no. I will make Garrod pay. I will punish him.
Setsuko: Oh? I didn't know you were in that kind of a relationship...
Ennil: Girl, you have a surprisingly dirty mind!

So yeah. This is why SRW Z doesn't have Will Game - Setsuko is Will Game instead! Only cuter. And hopefully she won't end up like him.

Sarah: Enemies are just ahead. The radar can pick them up, but still no visual!
Witz: A'right. Payback time for earlier!


Kid: Heh, Moonrace machines shouldn't be any trouble for you guys. Remember who upgraded your Gundams!
Sarah: Here comes the enemy! It really is the Moonrace!
Jamil: Airmaster, Leopard, Vertigo - engage hostiles! Freeden will provide cover fire.
Poe: The Earthrace try to oppose us with only three mobile suits? Show them Dianna Counter's power! Don't piss your pants in fear, mercenaries!
Setsuko: That's not very nice...
Corin: Huuuh? These Gundams are not white? I smell fakes. That's not fun, I'm outta here!
Poe: Corin Nander! Where do you think you're going?!
Setsuko: Maybe... change his pants?

As Gundam X-savvy people noticed by now, we're in the middle of the series' plot. Carris is already with the good guys, and Gundam Leopard and Airmaster are upgraded to Destroy and Burst versions, respectively. Which makes them, and Vertigo too, pretty good units. They and their pilots are almost good enough to be squad leader material. Almost makes a difference, but you can't have everything.

And yes, Setsuko is the enemy in this mission. Good thing I "forgot" to install her Anti Dust Module.

Setsuko: I'm sorry, it's nothing personal. I won't hit the cockpit, I promise.
Witz: That weird blue unit is attacking me! Let's show 'em, Airmaster!
Carris: Some try to fire at Vertigo, but they are too slow. Evading.

Witz: Alright, I'll just waltz in and finish off the big scarecrow!
Poe: What, attacking me? In the name of Dianna Counter, I will defeat you!
Carris: I sense something unusual from the blue mobile suit. Regardless: You will not escape my aim!
Setsuko: Oh no, Balgora... I cannot punch out yet!
Sarah: I detected a critical reaction, but that unit refuses to explode!
Tonya: Could it be... sheer willpower?
Jamil: That feeling! We have company.


Garrod: Look, Tiffa! It's the Freeden!
Roybea: Hey, it's Garrod. He made it after all.
Tiffa: Jamil...
Jamil: Tiffa, Garrod? I'm glad you could make it here!
Ennil: Garrod! I was waiting for you.


"Kihel": What's the matter, Loran?
Loran: The Moonrace... why am I forced to fight my own kind? I only want peace between the Moon and Earth!
"Kihel": Don't let your strength falter, Loran! Sometimes, fighting is necessary to protect the peace. And this is one of such situations. Do not let combat become your goal, but means of reaching that goal.
Sochie: Listen to my sister, stupid Loran! I'll show you how we fight. All the enemy Moonrace will go down!
Miashei: Umm, Loran is Moonrace too, you know.
Sochie: Yeah, but he is OUR Moonrace!

Setsuko: These people look vaguely familiar... why?
Poe: Hey, don't hesitate! Kill them all!
Setsuko: I do what I can. Balgora can barely move!
Poe: Useless mercenary. I knew I couldn't trust you. Also, that uniform is far too skanky for my tastes. I'll dispose of you myself!


Setsuko: She's shooting? That's it! I'm switching sides, good-bye!
Ennil: Go for it, Setsuko. I'd defect too if someone insulted my fashion sense. Oh, and the whole shooting, too.
Gain: Huuh, that's some fiery exchange of words and fire we just witnessed. I knew you can't mess with ladies.
Setsuko: This is Setsuko Ohara, Glory Stars, calling whomever of you is the leader! I am sorry that I was forced to fight you. I will aid you against the Moonrace.
Jamil: Very well. Just do not try anything funny.
Setsuko: Don't worry, I am used to such turns.
Gainer: That sounds like a video game... but we won't say no to extra help.
Sara: Who wouldn't leave if your superior tried to kill you? This is not a game, Gainer, it's reality!
Jiron: Indeed, it's not a video game at all, folks! Glad to see you join the good guys, Setsuko. A main character shouldn't stay on the wrong side for too long!
Elche: Main character or not, everyone get ready for a fight!

Carris: Then, I will cover your back, Garrod.
Witz: Right! And me and Roybea will form an indestructible team.
Corin: I'm back! I see a new Gundam, and it's white this time!
Loran: Huh?
Corin: Damn you White Gundam, I'll pay you back for all the bad stuff that happened to me!
Poe: Attack them, Corin Nander! I'll forgive you for running away if you destroy the White Doll!
Corin: You don't have to say it twice. Here I go!

Jamil: Freeden, onward! Focus your fire and take down the WaDom!

Three things of note here. First, I must finish the stage in 6 rounds if I want the Skill Point. Second, there's a secret here! Garrod should talk with Ennil, rather than shoot her down or anything like that. Third, WaDs seem tiny and non-threatening, but don't let their Joint Buster spears hit you. This decreases mobility and makes the unit more susceptible to future attacks (including other Joint Busters, but they do not stack). Likely result if you're not careful? This. And later this. Small spoilers in the second video but hey, it's nothing you can't see in a paragraph or two.

Chiru: Aren't you happy this didn't happen, Setsuko?
Setsuko: Sorry? What are you talking about?

Gavane: The Moonrace are in range! Everyone, attack!

No witty banter this time, just asskicking. Also, apparently Joseph found a working Borjarnon and is pilotting mobile suits rather than excavating them. And Moonrace somehow got hold on Blue Stones, since I earn them by shooting 'em down. Will the wonders ever cease?

Poe: Remaining WaDoms, fire mega beam launchers!
Setsuko: I have a beam launcher too. Gunnery Carver, go!
Sarah: New contacts are inbound, Captain!
Jamil: You can't mean...


Shagia: That's correct, Jamil Neate. The Frost Brothers are here. Hand over Tiffa Addil and we will be on our way.
Jamil: I will never let that happen!
Olba: Then, we will see you and that pathetic little town of yours burn.

Frosts are tough to beat like always, and to make it worse, they brought some mooks for escort!

Ennil: Is that all? I'll show you guys. Cover me, Corin. Corin?
Corin: White, moustached bastard! I'll kill you!
"Kihel": That indeed is Corin Nander... who let him from cryogenic sleep?

As for the aforementioned mooks:


NUNE pilot: Men, fire on one enemy at a time!
Moonrace pilot: Not even remotely fair!
Setsuko: I'm low on power... Chief, please do not fail me now! Fire!

NUNE pilot: Damn, they promised less explosions on the job! Get the WaDom then.
Poe: Why am I getting shot at again?!

What happens now is bad news. With Poe down, the rest of the Moonrace will retreat. And I cannot have that yet. For one, Garrod must talk with Ennil - she will probably stay behind even if everyone else flees, but I can't be too safe. So, change of objectives: destroy all Daughtresses before they have a chance to kill Poe!

Jamil: Don't get distracted! Freeden is under fire!
Olba: Indeed. Brother, watch me destroy their battleship.
Shagia: I'll waste my turn attacking a helpless WaD, thank you.

Gauli: Tch. Our Panzers cannot handle fliers too well.
Bello: You mean there's something they can handle well?
Joseph: Borjarnons are not much better. They're made for land warfare.
Gavane: We'll make up for the difference with our burning spirit. Go!

Fortunately, not all my units are like that. Airmaster in particular likes to pretend it's Freedom Gundam, beamspamming the hell out of everything. Witz may even be occassionaly stronger than Garrod when it gets to anti-air combat.

Enemy round, and Poe decides to waste Freeden's Alert spirit skill by attacking it. I can't fight back, I don't need her down yet.

Ennil: Found you! Here I go, boy.
Garrod: Can't let you do that, Ennil!
Loran: What's this? I'll use the Beam Saber!
Corin: Crap, stuff starts looking nasty...
Poe: You tell me! My WaDom's nanoskin barely manages to keep it running!

NUNE pilot: Does my voice sounds familiar? AAAAAAH!
Jiron: Woah, watch out! That could've hurt if it hit someone!

Garrod: Ennil? That must be Ennil! Stop this, why do you keep hounding me?
Ennil: Garrod... I told you. I will not give up until you pay for all that you have done!
Garrod: That's stupid!
Ennil: You are not the one to decide!
Garrod: Fine, have it your way then. I'll take you down!

On second thought, let's not. We don't want to ruin the secret, do we Garrod? Let's try something else, instead. Most Feddies are down, so time to kill a boss or two before they hurt someone. Corin's Eagail looks like a good start...

Corin: Little Gundam, come out come out wherever you are!
Loran: You called? Peace to all People Hammer!
"Kihel": Let me try something, Loran. Please open the hatch.
Loran: Lady Kihel? Will it be alright?
"Kihel": Yes. Trust me.


"Kihel": Corin Nander, listen to me!
Corin: It's... it's Queen Dianna!
"Kihel": Indeed, it is I! You have displeased me greatly, Corin Nander! You are from this day forth dismissed from my service. Leave now!
Corin: Queen... Dianna? But I served you so faithfully... waaah! I'm soooorryyy!
Sochie: He ran away! That really worked, great job sister!
Loran: You knew about him, milady Kihel?
"Kihel": Umm... of course I did! Queen Dianna told me about him when we had tea. Yes, that. Haha...

Jiron: Two scarecrows are left, but I'm no crow. I'm a main character! Go, everyone! Walker Gallia is a MAN!
Rag: You got my gun, Jiron!
Daiku: And my missile launcher!
Gavane: And my Borjarnon's bazooka!
Burume: I'll just sit here and enjoy the views.

The only remaining Moonrace unit, other than Ennil and her custom Jenice, is Poe's WaDom. And it's terribly low on HP so the outcome is clear. Who shall do the honors?

Setsuko: I will not let you insult the Glory Star uniform. Here!
Poe: I'm not a second rate pilot! I really am not!
Miashei: That's it for Moonrace! Their attack is over!
Sochie: Yeah, for now...
Gavane: Hey, it's not like you to be so serious, miss Sochie.
"Kihel", thinking: Unless I return, incidents like this will keep happening... I must find the real Kihel, and switch places back with her.

Gavane: Defeating the leader of a centre group will throw the whole squad into chaos. Here we go!
Roybea: Switch places with me, Witz. My turn now - how do you guys like this?!

Shagia: Our escorts are getting shot down... but the mission is not at risk. I can still take you down, Garrod Ran.
Garrod: Yeah, right. Try it, Shagia! But don't forget my harmonica cannon!
Carris: I am here too. Such weak attacks will not take anyone down!

Roybea: Here I go again! Let's see if Kid's double gatlings are good for anything, shall we?
Jamil: Freeden, release a barrage at the Virsago!
Sarah: I see what you're trying to do, Captain.
Tonya: Ah, we're under attack? Is it really okay?
Setsuko: An opening, fire!
Shagia: Hmph. I did not see that one coming.
Jamil: That's exactly what I was hoping for.

We're starting to reach the stage where most bosses have ridiculously high HP and taking them down requires a lot of time and punishment. Long video incoming!

Gavane: I'll do the same thing. Here, let me show you the soul of Lusianna!

Shagia is almost down. And good, the round counter shows me I have only this and the next one left. When he's out of commission, so is Olba (and the other way around, but Ashtaron has thicker armor so I went with Virsago), and remaining mooks run away. I can't let them go to waste! Let's shoot 'em down first!

Gauli: My turn, take this... argh, that's a lot of damage!

Not the best attempt. Let's spare us the embarassment and offscreen them. Courtesy of Loran, whose Turn A does NOT suck against airborne units. For a change.

NUNE pilot: Whyyyy!

And now, time to finish this. I'm reaching the level where you can, and should, make sure boss-killers have Luck and Gain in effect, for double the cash and experience respectively. So I do that, and also repair units when possible for some extra EXP, both by Gauli's panzer and the Freeden. What, you didn't know Freeden can repair? I must have forgot to mention it... makes it a pretty cool unit, too. Mostly because Jamil is such a badass, he can hit and dodge (somewhat well) in a battleship.

Chiru: Jirooon! How are we going to reach an enemy in the air?
Jiron: We'll just jump really, really high. This is a main character machine, not afraid of any mobile suit. Full power!

Shagia: This is not over yet!
Witz: What? C'mon, I'll show you what I got!
Roybea: Really guys, you should give up by now...
Shagia: But, for now we will retreat. Let's go, Olba.
Olba: Yes, brother.
Ennil: Time for me to go too. I see I have no chance here... but don't sleep, Garrod! I'll be waiting for my chance!
Setsuko: Ennil... so that's how it is.

Skill Point, get! And, it seems the Will Game end is avoided. But what will happen now?

Spoiler

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Milan: Your Highness, I wish to report. Poe's force has been defeated. Our mission has failed.
"Dianna": I see. It's a sure sign that the Earthrace are not to be triffled with.
Milan: Indeed. We should strengthen our forces.
"Dianna": No! I declare in the name of Queen Dianna Soreil of the Moonrace - we should negotiate with them instead. Further combat with them is from this day on prohibited.
Milan: Hrm. As you wish, my Queen. Now, excuse me.
"Dianna": That seems to work for now. I wonder did I do good...
Harry: Very good, Your Majesty. I have no doubts in you or your actions.
"Dianna": I am happy, Harry. But that does not change a fact: something must be done soon. But what...


Garrod: A'right! We kicked some Frosty ass back there!
Roybea: Like old times, huh? Only with less you trying to steal Tiffa away.
Sarah: And also with less you and Witz quitting after a job. Good to see you again, Garrod.
Kid: How was my Divider working for ya? Pretty reliable, huh? I strive to reach the highest standard!


Tex: I see you're in good health, Garrod. Is it safe to guess Tiffa is with you?
Garrod: 'Course! There she is!
Tiffa: Jamil...
Jamil: Tiffa... welcome home.


Guin: What a touching scene of bonding. I can see that Garrod's friends have their hearts in the right places, just like him.
Jamil: Who are you?
Guin: Guin Lineford, Inglessa's governor. Well... used to be, but then the whole "world collission" incident happened. Since then, my country is overran by all kinds of dangerous people. Federation, Chiram, the Moonrace of course - they all try to take the lands of our forefathers away from us! Which is why we need allies. I am willing to provide you with any accomodation and resources you require, if you could only help us.
Jamil: I see. I will think about it.
Guin: I hope for a positive answer. Keep in mind, Inglessa helped Tiffa and Garrod when they were in trouble.
Tiffa: I sense...
Jamil: Yes? What is it?
Tiffa: Something... a great sadness, but also strength is coming from you. You are a good person.
Setsuko: Umm, you mean me?


Jiron: That settles it! Setsuko has a mysterious past or something like that, she must be a main character!
Setsuko: I told you already, I have no idea what do you mean...
Gain: It means Jiron trusts you. Only him and Gainer use weird terms like that, must be an UN slang thing. Me, I know a kind and strong lady when I see her.
Sara: Hey, you're not trying to hit on her, are you? You know her only for like 5 minutes, Gain! Sara Kodama, nice to meet you.
Bello: I'm Bello, and this guy here is Gainer. Pleased to meetcha!
Gainer: I never saw a uniform like that before. Is this cosplay?
Setsuko: No, it's an actual Glory Star uniform... who would pilot a unit in cosplay?
Gainer: I can imagine a person or two...
Gauli: We saw you in combat. You are a very skilled pilot - can you help our Exodus? It's been in a pickle since six months ago. We need big guns, and good arms to shoot them. Like yours.
Setsuko: No, I'm sorry. There is still someone I need to locate. I know I'm going the right way, and I'm too close to stop now. Ennil... her words inspired me to keep going. But without shady business or mercenary work I do not like this time.
Bello: But how are you going to earn your way through if you have no money then?
Setsuko: I will find a way.
Gainer: Selling... cosplay pictures?
Sara: Gainer!

Intermission time!


Weapon upgrades for each of my units. The squad leader ones, that is. Times are tough and there's quite a lot of them, so only one dot per robot.


Only Setsuko is fielded in the next chapter, so I won't bother with others' parts. But wait, about the Balgora!


Screw Module off, Anti Dust Module on. Back to S rating on the ground - good Setsuko didn't have it when she was an enemy, isn't it?

And for some horror stories, on a New Game+ I played once, I had to face a fully-upgraded Rand here. Think about it.

Next chapter: A huge gathering. I mean it, it's HUGE! So is the mission. Ride the sky hurricane, ancient god of war! Also, more audience participation.

===========

The next mission is not only huge, but long. Don't expect it for a while since I'll be kinda busy in the next few days. It will be there in a week or so, maybe earlier if everything goes well. Stay tuned!

[Prime32]

Gainer: I never saw a uniform like that before. Is this cosplay?
Setsuko: No, it's an actual Glory Star uniform... who would pilot a unit in cosplay?
Gainer: I can imagine a person or two...

Gainer's played OGs?

[Cubey]

Gainer is a huge mecha nerd, of course he did.

[Tengu_temp]

Fun fact: When I first saw Carris, I thought he's a girl. Speaking of which, he seems to be missing from the cast roster.

This mission satisfied my needs for Dreams for now. So much Gundam X.

[Prime32]

Gainer is a huge mecha nerd, of course he did.

That reminds me of a PbP fight I saw between Hiro Nakamura and Sakuya Izayoi.

Hiro draws his katana, standing ready, "I very big fan, play every game. I win, autograph?"

Yes, he was speaking in broken English to a Japanese person.

[Cubey]

That sounds like Livejournal RP. It really does.

And Carris, he is in the roster now. And always has been. Totally. Trust me.

[Terraoblivion]

And the Frost Brothers once again show that they are the strongest and most annoying recurring bosses in every game they are in. Still not quite as bad as in @G.

[Cubey]

And the Frost Brothers once again show that they are the strongest and most annoying recurring bosses in every game they are in. Still not quite as bad as in @G.

[Sucrose]

Setsuko's development continues to interest me. I suppose she was putting her friends before her morals, as before she hadn't had to choose between them. Good to see that she learns her lesson quickly.

Carris TRAP'ed me as well.

As for the update itself, I think you've fully returned to form, Cubey. This was both funny in parts, and absurdly epic in others. Hadn't realized how much I missed the Xabungle crew, but it's very nice to see them again. Also, I know almost nothing about Gavane, but I'm becoming a fan. What's his music called? It's just so heroic-sounding, that I must have it. Finally, who is Will Game? Google search is ineffective, and I can't find him even on a preliminary search of a SRW wiki.

[Oslecamo]

Gainer's played OGs?

In the grimdarkness awesomness of the future, it's standard military training before you get your first giant robot.

Also, could someone explain me why Setsuko's mecha has that weird purple-colapsing destruction animation that ends with a small jewel floating and disapearing?

[Terraoblivion]

Yes, but you are not expected to actually defeat that guy until the last time you meet him, Cubey.

I also take it that Setsuko's line about what Ennil was into was added by you.

[Cubey]

You never know, Terra. The script on gamefaqs is for Rand's route so you can never tell what is real and what is my invention!

Okay, I admit, I made that one up.

Setsuko's development continues to interest me. I suppose she was putting her friends before her morals, as before she hadn't had to choose between them. Good to see that she learns her lesson quickly.

Well, the girl starts working for the Titans. Her moral compass is obviously a bit discalibrated.
Although the Moonrace aren't really such bad people. At least, most of them aren't.

Also, I know almost nothing about Gavane, but I'm becoming a fan. What's his music called? It's just so heroic-sounding, that I must have it.

The English translation is Memory of Military Shoes, Turn A Gundam's next episode trailer song. Here's a youtube link. And I'm a fan of Gavane too. He's definitely badass, of the "attack a super prototype in a Zaku Borjarnon, and if you're out of your mobile doll then hell, even a rifle will do" variety. Even if he is not without his flaws, I cannot help but like him.

Finally, who is Will Game? Google search is ineffective, and I can't find him even on a preliminary search of a SRW wiki.

Minor spoilers for people who didn't watch Turn A.

Spoiler

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Will Game is a minor character who befriends Loran and "Kihel" (actually Dianna in disguise). His grandfather, also Will Game, was Dianna's lover, but she had to return to the Moon and fall into cryo sleep while he stayed on Earth. The present Will Game digs up a mobile doll and joins Dianna Counter, but only because he wants to go to the Moon and see Dianna. This doesn't end well, because even Happy Tomino still has his kill count obligations.

Also, could someone explain me why Setsuko's mecha has that weird purple-colapsing destruction animation that ends with a small jewel floating and disapearing?

I'm glad you noticed. Indeed, it IS significant, but it's also a huge plot spoiler. So it will have to remain a secret for now. Let's just say that Balgora is not your average Mobile Suit... and while we're at it, Gunleon is not your average Super Robot either. If there is such a thing as an average Super Robot.

Except Combattler V. Zing!

[Oslecamo]

I'm glad you noticed. Indeed, it IS significant, but it's also a huge plot spoiler. So it will have to remain a secret for now. Let's just say that Balgora is not your average Mobile Suit... and while we're at it, Gunleon is not your average Super Robot either.

Ah well, I can wait for it, happy to see that there's more to that unit that meets the eye.

[Tengu_temp]

The English translation is Memory of Military Shoes, Turn A Gundam's next episode trailer song. Here's a youtube link.

"Next, on Turn A Gundam! The... Frost Brothers? And Setsuko? What?"

It's worth noting that Turn A has no less than 4 characters who attacked a mobile suit while on foot. Apart from Gavane with a rifle, we have Miashei (with a hammer), a nameless old woman (with a pitchfork) and Corin (with a variety of weapons, from a bazooka to his bare hands). It's that kind of show.

And Gavane was so hardcore that

Spoiler

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Tomino had to drop a nuke on him to kill him - nothing else would work. Doesn't happen in this game, obviously.

[Terraoblivion]

We also have Dianna with a rifle, Tengu. It probably didn't make much of a difference, though.

[catchthesun]

Gavane: The Moonrace are in range! Everyone, attack!

Gainer's played OGs?

I'm going to be honest here. For about 5 seconds, I read the DC of the Diana Counter as the DC of the Divine Crusaders and then I realised it just didn't make sense. Although, given the cross-dimensional mess this game has cooked up, I probably won't be very surprised to see Bian and friends show up.

And, hey, we already have Evil Masaki. Good Shu's probably not far off, lol.

[Prime32]

I'm going to be honest here. For about 5 seconds, I read the DC of the Diana Counter as the DC of the Divine Crusaders and then I realised it just didn't make sense. Although, given the cross-dimensional mess this game has cooked up, I probably won't be very surprised to see Bian and friends show up.

...yeah, I was confused for a minute there too.

[Sucrose]

You never know, Terra. The script on gamefaqs is for Rand's route so you can never tell what is real and what is my invention!

Okay, I admit, I made that one up.



Well, the girl starts working for the Titans. Her moral compass is obviously a bit discalibrated.
Although the Moonrace aren't really such bad people. At least, most of them aren't.



The English translation is Memory of Military Shoes, Turn A Gundam's next episode trailer song. Here's a youtube link. And I'm a fan of Gavane too. He's definitely badass, of the "attack a super prototype in a Zaku Borjarnon, and if you're out of your mobile doll then hell, even a rifle will do" variety. Even if he is not without his flaws, I cannot help but like him.



Minor spoilers for people who didn't watch Turn A.

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Will Game is a minor character who befriends Loran and "Kihel" (actually Dianna in disguise). His grandfather, also Will Game, was Dianna's lover, but she had to return to the Moon and fall into cryo sleep while he stayed on Earth. The present Will Game digs up a mobile doll and joins Dianna Counter, but only because he wants to go to the Moon and see Dianna. This doesn't end well, because even Happy Tomino still has his kill count obligations.

I'm glad you noticed. Indeed, it IS significant, but it's also a huge plot spoiler. So it will have to remain a secret for now. Let's just say that Balgora is not your average Mobile Suit... and while we're at it, Gunleon is not your average Super Robot either. If there is such a thing as an average Super Robot.

Except Combattler V. Zing!

Thanks much for the link. Have to say, further elucidation has only improved my opinion of Gavane.

As for Setsuko, I don't hold her working for the Titans initially against her very much. After all, they are working for the government of the world, and dystopias tend to have serious censorship issues. It's like Luke wanting to go to the Imperial Academy in A New Hope; she probably saw it as an honorable job, protecting people from terrorists and whatnot.

Since then, she's grown a lot, and learned more of the world, but the importance that she places on her friends evidently blinded her for a little while. And, as you said, the Moonrace do have valid reasons for wanting to expand, even aggressively. It's quite reasonable for her to make a mistake like this, now that I think about it.

[Cubey]

I don't quite remember if I thought Dianna Counter was Divine Crusaders when I first played this game, but I sure did make a joke about it.

More than once, in fact. My friends probably got sick of me repeating it.

And yeah, you pretty much hit the bullseye with your description of Setsuko, Sucrose. She also doesn't really have a goal for now, other than finding Toby and not letting people around her act like massive jerks too much. Still a motivation upgrade over "do what superiors tell you to and hope it eventually turns out okay", though.

EDIT: And sweets. Can't forget the sweets. It's an important part of her characterisation!

[Terraoblivion]

Which is a clear sign of her superior nature. No good person doesn't love sweets!...Unless they have diabetes at least.

[Prime32]

If SRW Z is ever licenced (AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! ) there is only one person who can play Setsuko.
She's Nanoha Takamachi and Noel Vermillion - don't tell me it wouldn't be hilarious.

[Cubey]

Huh, Noel isn't Michelle Ruff? But she totally sounds like Yukari from P3.

And to make it more complicated, Michelle Ruff acts in both BlazBlue and Haruhi, just like Cristina Vee.

[Sucrose]

I don't quite remember if I thought Dianna Counter was Divine Crusaders when I first played this game, but I sure did make a joke about it.

More than once, in fact. My friends probably got sick of me repeating it.

And yeah, you pretty much hit the bullseye with your description of Setsuko, Sucrose. She also doesn't really have a goal for now, other than finding Toby and not letting people around her act like massive jerks too much. Still a motivation upgrade over "do what superiors tell you to and hope it eventually turns out okay", though.

EDIT: And sweets. Can't forget the sweets. It's an important part of her characterisation!

Danke.

Incidentally, do you mind if I subscribe to your Youtube channel? Not sure whether that would cause issues for you or not.

[Cubey]

It's not a problem, although remember that the videos are meant to be watched with the text part of the LP. Otherwise they are bare of context.

And sometimes I upload videos a few hours to a day before I actually write a new chapter, so beware of spoilers.

[Sucrose]

Oh, I know. It's mostly just to be able to know when the new update is if I haven't been on the forum in a while.

[Prime32]

Huh, Noel isn't Michelle Ruff? But she totally sounds like Yukari from P3.

And to make it more complicated, Michelle Ruff acts in both BlazBlue and Haruhi, just like Cristina Vee.

Michelle Ruff is Carl Clover.

CV isn't in Haruhi, though she did some fandubs and auditioned for it. And she got hired as the second live-action Haruhi.

Wendee Lee is Haruhi. And half the characters in animation of any kind.

[Cubey]

I didn't say she's Haruhi, I said she is IN Haruhi.
But now that I recheck, she doesn't voice anyone there. Huh, weird.

[Cubey]

I am back. My "not having free time" period is over, and I bring an update.
And some update it is. I promise you, a larger update than this one I have yet to have. But its introduction is deceptively short and sweet, as you'll see in a moment.
Of course, I am sure this will not reign as the king of long missions for long. Later SRW Z chapters are pretty damn huge, too. So, enjoy. Especially since at the end of this chapter, I will require your participation again!

===========

Chapter 15: To an Unseen Tomorrow

Introduction

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An island, situated between Siberia Gallia and Alaska Northwest Ameria. Despite not really having a name, this place is often used by the Emaan caravans. For what, you may ask? What else could Emaan use land for if not a place for trading!


Kei: That's a lot of goods! A box marked VF-1J? You have some serious operation going on here.
Mimsy: Of course. All Emaan stop here from time to time, so everybody trades a lot. That's why we are here too, to make deals and buy parts for Glomar and that unit Jabby helped name.
Kei: Sorry, I cannot hear you, too busy using my new uniform to trying to woo the ladies!
Mimsy: Kei! What are you doing? Come back here!


Kei: Hey, what a little girl is doing here all alone?


Momu: Mister, please buy me!
Kei: Woah! Emaan practice child slavery?!
Mimsy: Don't be ridiculous!
Momu: I am Momu, a non-combat Mu model. Please, let me serve you!
Mimsy: Mu robots? That sounds like trouble... aren't you terrible killers who murder everyone on sight?
Momu: I promise I didn't kill anyone.
Kei: Robot or not, we can't just let people treat her like property. She's obviously sentient, c'mon. Let's buy her off from whatever offscreen slavery she's in.
Mimsy: Oh, fine... maybe she will help on the ship or something.
Momu: Yay! Thank you, I will love you forever for this, mister!
Kei: A rather disturbing kind of sentient...


Setsuko: Umm... is there a reason why are you surrounding me in a threatening way?


Henry: You are a member of Glory Stars, aren't you? Therefore, you are a wanted Federation runaway and Chiram always work for, not against their allies favor. In other words, you are under arrest!
Setsuko: Urk... I do not want to fight, but I have this gun, you see.
Chiram soldier: We have guns too, you know.
Setsuko: Not good...
Kei: Hey, leave that nice lady alone, you goons! Fighting is forbidden on markets like this! Wait a sec... Glory Star? I remember that name!
Setsuko: Aren't you that freedom fighter from the space elevator?
Henry: It's the Singularity! Get him!
Kei: Uh oh. Better run now!
Setsuko: Again?
Henry: Wait, where are you... damn, we cannot shoot. We need him alive! To your Devices, men!

Mimsy: Bad news, Shaya! The Chiram will be here any second now!
Setsuko: I'm sorry for making you a part of this. Let me make amends by shooting them out of the sky!
Slay: You'd better be, whomever you are. And that Kei... this is his fault again, isn't it?
Shaya: Please, this is no time for this! Maie, Lea, move out and defend the Glomar!
Kei: Hey now, I cannot let the ladies duke it out alone! I will help them using Leeg's new machine I helped design. And by that, I mean he made it, Jabby named it and I just threw around random ideas. Here I go!

Orguss, launch!

I know not a lot of action happens in this video, but I can't help it - I just love this theme song. And it is the special event-only version, too. Well, we scanned Henry's squad so we know how much of a danger he is. That is, not a lot. But since the Skill Point condition is to finish the stage in 9 turns, I think we can assume there will be more enemies than just him.

Kei: Orguss can transform from gerwalk to battroid, and it has arms AND legs! Just like I asked! Okay, but let's see if it's any good in combat!

It is, Kei. It really is. Its theoretical weapon damage is not phenomenal, but Kei's +20% damage on male and sexless enemies helps a lot. This pilot/unit combo is one of the best reals in this game.

Shaya: Why is Glomar shaking, I wonder?
Momu: It's the enemy attacking!
Shaya: Hmm! We should fire back at them!

Seriously, putting Glomar too close to Chiram devices was one of the mistakes I did in this mission. And not the only mistake, oh no. But it's only the first round!

Kei: Orguss handles really well! I bet I can dodge anything in this!
Henry: I see you, Singularity!
Kei: Oops!
Maie: Kei, stop playing hero! Do you want to die?

Thanks, defensive support!

Kei: And now, for the decisive hit! Let's go, ladies!
Henry: This isn't over yet! Survivors, retreat for now!

Something... weird happens whenever Kei uses a TRI attack. No, I do not mean he deals sick damage - this is intentional. I mean that Lea's voice is slowed down and it makes her sound like some kind of a monster. This never happened in canon. Probably just a bug or something.

And I did not finish all Chiram units, because time is of the essence in this scenario. Hey, look - some new people appeared already!


Holland: Damn Feds chase us everywhere we go!
Matthew: Yeah, you'd think we're fighting against them or something, Leader!
Talho: Quit the smartassery, they're here already!


Neo: Aha, I see the target. Everyone, target the insurgents.
Stella: Yes, Neo! I will kill them all!
Auel: Time for a Coordinator shishkabob!
Sting: Mission accepted, sir.


Quattro: Hold it, mysterious masked man! Nobody will destroy AEUG that easily. Kamille, Emma, follow my orders and everything will be alright.
Shinn: I'm here too! Hey, doesn't that unit in the distance look kinda familiar to you?
Lunamaria: Now that you mention it, Shinn...
Setsuko: It's AEUG and ZAFT! Hello, can you hear me?
Arthur: Captain, we have a transmission! Who could it be?
Setsuko: This is me, Setsuko Ohara from Glory Stars!
Bright: So, we meet again sooner than imagined. Are you willing to give us a hand?
Setsuko: Yes, I am.
Renton: Is that really miss Setsuko? Alright! This must be destiny...
Eureka: Renton, why are you blushing? Are you cold?

A bunch of enemies and reinforcements appear - a common theme through this scenario. For some reason, we have Gundam X mooks in Zeta machines. Oh well.

Talia: Minerva, move in and cover our offensive with a barrage!
Shinn: I'll be charging in next!
Quattro: Keep your head cool.

There are several secrets here - Quattro should down at least 3 opponents, which is why he and not Kamille is the group leader. This, and him generally being awesome. Also, Shinn needs to fight Stella, AND Stella, Sting and Auel must go down. This is tricky because they have more HP than ever, and the Federation forces run away after a few turns. Rush rush rush!

Holland: I'll show you the technique of a Gekkostate ace!
Federation pilot: But I do not pilot an LFO!
Holland: Then die.
Federation pilot: That's cold!

And what happens next?

Mimsy: They're trying to shoot us down again!
Jabby: Miss Shaya, we cannot hold out much longer!
Shinn: I won't let prototype thieves overwhelm me! Argh, this doesn't look good, I'm on defensive!
Quattro: This is how you do it. Go down!
Auel: Argh, die!
Neo: No, THIS is how you do it.
Holland: Heh, not bad - for a soldier.

So far, it's the enemy who's on offense. Having four boss units does that to poeple. Let's reduce their numbers a bit.

Auel: The golden mobile suit's really pissing me off now!
Stella: Where's the enemy?!
Sting: I'm getting a beatup here too, who'd imagine.
Holland: Piece of cake! VPS Armor or not, I'll just strike through it.

Kei: Orguss to the rescue! Punch! And double punch!
Federation pilot: What just happened!
Setsuko: This was supposed to be a peaceful island... Chiram first and now Federation? What is going on here?

The Glomar crew (and Setsuko) are attacking from behind! The enemy is a sandwich! Okay, Glomar itself stays behind and repairs itself. Note: I forgot to repair Shinn, even if his damage was not too devastating. This proves to be a mistake.

Stella: Die, just die!
Shinn: Damn! I won't lose here!
Neo: Squadron, attack!
Shinn: I-I can't do it! Core Splendor, punching out!
Lunamaria: Shinn?!
Meyrin: Don't worry, the Splendor escaped unharmed!
Talia: Shinn, return to Minerva immediately!
Shinn: Crap! I'm sorry, guys!

Impulse is down! What will happen now? Will my Skill Point and secrets fail now?
Yeah right. Like I'd let that happen.

Rey: Lunamaria, take the lead now. You have the strongest beam-based weapon.
Lunamaria: I'll do it! Orthros cannon, don't fail me now!

And, despite Lunamaria's ridiculously expensive (30 SP) strike, we are starting to work with tools given. Or rather, tools that didn't explode yet.
And results are more than I could ever ask for.

Quattro: Attack!
Lunamaria: Offensive support! Don't run away now!
Stella: I'll never forgive this! Ever!

Holland: LFO squad, move close to the ground. And attack!
Sting: Heh, that was supposed to be damage?
Lunamaria: Offensive support! Another shot!
Sting: Damn, are you trying to shoot ME down?!

Bright: Fire the mega particle cannon!
Stella: Aah! Neo!
Lunamaria: I have energy for one last shot. Fire, fire!
Sting: Tch, I won't forget this...

Two out of four bosses down. This wouldn't have happened without Luna. And Bright, but the whole AEUG thing wouldn't have happened without Bright*.

*Cubey is more than aware that Bright is not the real leader of AEUG. At least, not at the moment.

Auel: I'm still up! I'll finish you all off!
Setsuko: Ray Turret, full power!
Auel: Daaaaamn!
Kei: Nice! I'll attack their boss, then.
Lea: Alright Kei, but why are we on the ground? Your machine should fly!

Oops. Well, as long as Kei doesn't share Shinn's fate...

Shinn: I'm not dead!

Kei: Time to showoff all my different missiles. Let's go, Orguss!

And, predictably for what happens when you stay on earth when your unit has a B ground rating, Kei gets hit. Or would, if Maie didn't defend him again. But Quattro finishes off a wide formation enemy squad. Badass.


Neo: That was quite entertaining for something so dangerous, but we'll be making our leave now. See you later!
Holland: Heh, leaving so soon? Is he afraid of us or what?
Emma: No, I think he's afraid of this.


Butcher: Hehehe! Humans are here! Now that we have new lapdogs in my alliance, they won't run away! Kill them all, got it?
Teral: Roger that. Hmph... what devilish whisper made me join forces with this abomination?
Butcher: Did you say anything?
Teral: We will proceed as ordered.

But Butcher the Killer and his allies were not the only ones to arrive!


Kappei: Hey, look! It's Setsuko!
Kouji: It really is! Long time no see! Wait, that's not right...
Setsuko: Everyone! You are here?
Toshiya: We chased after the alien invaders and we found Butcher here. He must be stopped before he murders everyone!
Eiji: Right, and that's why we're here!
Touga: Let's attack his forces. Everyone, get ready.

Setsuko: I'm close enough to attack! These funny things again?
Kei: Following up! I can't let a girl get hurt, you see!
Talia: Everyone else, get on board of Minerva!

The enemy is far away, but at least I can put everyone in a ship for a boost of speed this time.

Heizaemon: Our turn to engage the Gaizock. Good luck and stay safe.
Mizuki: Right! Don't get hurt and we'll throw a celebratory party later!
Toshiya: Then, I'll go first! God Tomahawk!
Kouji: ... That sounds really familiar. I can't put my finger on it.
Eina: Master Touga, what are you going to do?
Touga: I will destroy the weakened enemy. Grankaiser, attacking!

I cannot help but notice Zambot 3 still has the Space Thruster (or however you call it that gives an S rating in space) part on. Oh well, as long as it doesn't need that slot for something else...

Vegan: Where is Grendizer? AFRAID, I SEE! I will destroy its friends and everything it holds dear!
Kouji: There's no Daisuke, but Kouji Kabuto will be your opponent! Missiles!
Vegan: FOR NOW YOU HAVE BESTED ME BUT WE WILL SEE LATER!

Kei: Woah, I didn't know things like that existed! I'll get rid of it - pew! There we go.
Kiraken: Dammit, we're getting attacked again!
Toshiya: GOD SHIELD! Don't worry, I'll handle this. God Sting!
Julie: Toshiya, Godsigma's energy is critically low. We have to tap into Trinity as fast as possible!

As a side effect of this mission being friggin' LONG (we're in what now, 6th turn?), my people are running low on SP. The reinforcements are still pretty fresh, but others will find it hard to take on bosses. And sometimes even mooks. Tricks such as using the command aura are key here.

Holland: What the hell is that huge, ugly thing? Take it down!
Barettar: That guy is attacking the Bandock!
Butcher: What are you doing? Kill him! Fire, fire, fire!

Although destroying Butcher's unit is not really necessary here. Either Teral or Butcher must be destroyed in this stage to advance. Or I can wait until both leave, wasting everyone's time. We can't have that.

Rey: We will attack the battleship.
Lunamaria: Take this!
Quattro: I will join in. Can you escape Hyaku Shiki?
Teral: Earthlings... if I have to fight you, then so be it. Launch the Harpy squadron!
Quattro: No way!

So yeah, even my Newtype pilots get hit from time to time. Is Teral such an awesome commander or was I just unlucky?
Judging from hit percentages, unlucky.

Kappei: How do you like this? Moon Attack!

And we're chipping away at the Eldar Battleship's HP. Enemy mooks try to stop me, with results that nobody ever saw coming.
Vegan: AAAAARGH!
Vegan: What!
Vegan: A frisbee?!

Kei: A whole squad of monsters goes down at once! Is everyone else doing just fine?
Toshiya: Gweh! That was close!
Teral: We will not give up. Eldar's future depends on the energy you wield!

Rey: Here I go.
Setsuko: Star 3, I'll support you!
Teral: Damn, you stubborn woman!

At this rate, Teral's ship is going down without complications. The Bandock is not, but it would run away at the start of the next turn anyway, and I do not have enough firepower that can get in its range quick enough. I know, I checked. But at least we can unlock another point for a different secret by having Kappei fight with it.

And now we have enough points to prevent a Bad Thing to happen later in Zambot 3's plot! We need at least 7. What I just did gave me one, and destroying 5 enemies in Zambot's debut gave me another. Destroing Bandock earlier? It was worth 5 points.

Talia: Capital ships, fire! Minerva's Tannhauser is targetting the enemy battleship!
Talho: Alright! We'll take down a hydra, then. I can't believe I just said that.

Holland: Heh. Then I'll do the honors. Follow me, Matthew, Eureka! And Renton, too... I think.
Teral: Impossible! All hands, abandon ship!
Butcher: Ohh? Someone's got a bad case of hurt pride? Hehehe... I guess we'll leave for now. I'm bored.

Shaya: Is it over?
Jabby: Oh no! My tail! It senses something again!
Shaya: Jabby? Could it be, another dimensional disturbance?
Sagusa: Captain, we have an SOS message! It's from the Moonrace!


Phil: This is the Moonrace ship, Soreil! We are being chased by unidentified aliens and request immediate support!
Setsuko: What? First conquest, and now... aliens?
Phil: I see there's a lot of you, so handle them. We cannot endanger the Queen, so we will leave now!
Bright: He did not even let us respond. Get ready!

An army of Shadow Angels appear. And where Shadow Angels go...

Pierre: It feels good to pilot Aquarion for a change!
Apollo: Shadow Angels, I'll take you all down!
Silvia: Don't get too ahead of yourself, Apollo!
Apollo: What did you say, Foolish Princess?
Silvia: Why, you!
Chiru: Jiron, look! It's the people from before!
Jiron: That's right! Setsuko and all the cast from the other route! We're here to give ya a hand, so leave the Shadow Angels to us!

Bright just nodded to Jamil, one veteran commander recognizing the other. They knew they had to work together here.

Kouji: Double Spazer's still got juice in it! Cyclone Beam!
Toshiya: Surefire strike - Musouken! HYAA!

Garrod: These things make Tiffa suffer just by being there! Go down!
Gain: We'll cover you, mr Squad Captain.
Gainer: Don't call me that! They are tough... but they won't hit me! Let's go!
Loran: Why are they in White Doll's database? Are the Shadow Angels relics of the past?
Sochie: Loran, don't space out!
Loran: A... alright!

And once Loran's hammer destroyed another Angel, something appears. What, you expected this to be the end of enemy reinforcements? Not yet!

Setsuko: Balgora? This kind of reaction... it never happened before! Wait, that unit! It's... it's... It's the Chief's killer!


???: Hmph. You again? Don't stand in my way. I need you to suffer, not to die. Well, we can arrange some suffering.
Setsuko: Kyaa! So strong...
A familiar face: I waited for this, Asakim!

Asakim: Feint. You won't take me down that easily.
Toby: But at least I repelled you, bastard! You okay, Setsuko?
Setsuko: Toby! Is this really you?
Toby: That's me! You'd never believe what I had to come through to find you! But I'm finally here. Nevermind for now... that guy is the one who murdered Chief. His name is Asakim Dowen!
Asakim: Fufu... do you really think you can face me head on?
Toby: For Chief, and for Glory Stars, I will!
Setsuko: I am a Glory Star too!

However, Setsuko moved in this turn already, so no luck for her. But yay, Toby is back! And he's staying with the group now. Activating Sense, so he can counterattack Asakim without getting flattened...

And the Sense's defensive part gets immediately wasted as a stray Cherubim attacks Balgora unit 2.
Toby: That's not the kind of an angel I like! Oh well, watch this heavenly appearance!

And, by popular demand:

Apollo: Watch me, Baron. I'll rescue you, just wait! I will reach you, like this: Infinite PUNCH!
The Element Fusion system activates!
Pierre: Ohh yeah... definitely good to be a pilot of Aquarion...

Bright: What did just happen?
Torres: A hand leaped into the sky and crashed into us!
Bright: This is weird... but nevermind! Fire the mega beam cannons!
Toby: Asakim! I will never forgive you! To the death... no, even after death!
Asakim: Ohh? What do you know about death that makes you an expert. Very well. Here I go.

At this moment, I observe three things:
1. Toby barely survived, and that was Asakim's weakest attack. He is a powerhouse.
2. On the other hand, despite having a lot of HP, Asakim does not take hits very well. His Shurouga regenerates, but it's a dodger, not a tank.
3. Despite being an evil, unrepentant bastard, this guy's theme kicks ass. And it didn't even reach the really cool part yet.

By that time, one should ask: how much time do I have left? Two turns, the answer is. This one and the next. The chapter will end when I down all the Shadow Angels - destroying Asakim is not necessary. Not necessary as far as mission objectives are concerned. My conscience has a different opinion on that.

But sure, let's destroy as many Shadow Angels as possible. For example, one that is very close to Argama. The solution?

Bright: All hands, brace for impact!
Torres: Captain, are we being attacked?
Bright: In a way.
Talho: Cannons, fire everything you got!

And yet, it didn't work. Damn.

Kappei: Woah! I evaded, in Zambot? Again? I'm awesome!
Apollo: Our turn, guys!
Pierre: Take my burning power, Apollo! Let's do it together! Fire...
Apollo: BURST!

And, once again, I am forced to do this:


People who are too far away from anything, jump on King Bael!
Doing this eats up 10 of their morale, if you want to know (but it never drops under 100 this way). So don't do it unless you have to. On the other hand, units on board get some repairs and resupply done.

Also, the timing is right:
Sandman: Gran Knights, combine!

Yes, this will be a video each and every time.

Jiron: Fire, everyone! Triple attack on the bad guy!
Asakim: Do you really think this power is enough to harm me? Tragic Genocider!
Toby: I am your enemy, Asakim! Barley Scythe! For Chief's sake, die!
Asakim: Are you now, really? That's so amusing...

Shurouga was not the only problematic enemy.
Kouji: Gah! Why you!
Quattro: There! Vulcans should be enough...

Okay, maybe normal Shadow Angels aren't so tough anymore after all.

Asakim: I have no qualms with you, begone.
Toby: Never!
Asakim: Then, your life is forfeit.
Toby: Argh! Hold it, Balgora! We cannot give up yet... take this!

Setsuko: Toby! Don't die!
Toby: Heh... I plan not to anytime soon...
Setsuko: Asakim... I will shoot you down for what you did to everyone!
Bright: You will not be the only one. Everyone in range, focus your fire on the black unit!



Kei: Leave it to me! I think I don't like this guy very much... eat a missile! How's this?!
Eina: Lady Setsuko, there is an opening! Please, use it quickly!
Setsuko: Roger! Gunnery Carver, SHOOT!
Asakim: Ohh? Attacking outside of my range - am I that scary?
Luna: He's distracted! Our turn now!
Eiji: We'll show him!
Touga: Indeed. G-Shadow, prepare yourself.
Leene: Yes...
Touga: Gravity Crescent!

Toby: Go to hell, Asakim!
Asakim: Do you think I am so easy to kill?
Toby: Huh?
Asakim: I would not be here if it was the case. You will have to try harder. In fact... I will make sure you are more motivated to succeed the next time. For now, farewell.
Toby: Wait, you bastard!
Setsuko: Asakim Dowen... if you return, we will be ready!

All that is left is to finish off remaining Shadow Angels.

Maria: Don't steal all the spotlight, Kouji! My turn now! Drill Attack!

Skill Point, get! That was a damn mighty shindig.


Apollo: Alright, guys. We gotta go now.
Pierre: Let's meet again! Preferably not on a battlefield the next time.
Apollo: Jiron, later.
Jiron: Woah, I hope this doesn't develop into some kind of food-rivalry.


Sochie: Really, I never thought I'd help Moonrace if they needed help. Maybe they will really give us a break now?

And because Sochie is one of the grumpiest, and even she is happy the mission is over, then everyone laughed and cheered.

Well, almost everyone.


Holland: Thanks for saving my ass, but we're out of here now. Gekkostate, move it!
Talho: Let's go, we got repairs to do!
Renton: See you again, Setsuko! I mean, everyone!
Holland: Hey, stay quiet kid. You want shopkeeper duty again?
Renton: N... no....

And then, suddenly! Another arrival!




Lowen: AEUG, ZAFT, Jin family, the Gran Knights, Glory Stars and all their friends! I come in peace. My name is Lowen General. I bring an important message from my chief in command.

What could the message be? Whatever it is, it has to wait a bit, because there's one more thing to take care of:



The Impulse won't repair itself, will it? At least it's not as costly as Grankaiser.

Allied units shot down so far: 2

And now, back to our usual epilogue. Who am I kidding? This one will be anything but usual.

Spoiler

Show

Lowen: Lady Edel Bernal of UN has heard of your efforts and accomplishments. There are many military groups in the present word, but most of them are corrupt and abuse their power to cause suffering. You are different! Therefore, she kindly offers you her assistance.
Bright: The ZAFT-AEUG alliance is low on resources of all kinds. Any support at all is very welcome.
Elche: What a nice guy! I'm really happy he came to see us.


Lowen: Ah, uhm! Please... could you give me more personal space?
Elche: Huh? Did something happen?
Lowen: I mean no offense, it is just... I have little experience dealing with women other than lady Bernal. I am sorry, but... I just feel nervous.
Shaya: Oh, is that really so? Emaan females who lose their fertility do not count as women anymore, by all standards of our culture.
Lowen: Aaah! I need to stay away! I'm so sorry!
Shaya: Umm, not for everyone, apparently...

Under the black night sky, a place that is not too far away from the rest but feels so detached...


Toby: Asakim... that bastard. What did he say before he fled? I think Chief's death is not enough for him, he wants to mess with us even further.
Setsuko: But, why? What did the Glory Stars ever do to him?
Toby: Wish I knew. I barely know anything more than just his name. But I don't think he has a grudge with us, or the Chief... it must be something else.
Setsuko: Chief... what will become of Glory Stars now? What should we do now?
Toby: Dunno... Hey, Setsuko. You had the wrong question all along. You should ask yourself: What do you want to do now?
Setsuko: I... I think I want to stay with AEUG and others. They're not just a military force, there's something more between them. Strong bonds of friendship, it's almost like Glory Stars. I feel they can really change the world for the better.
Toby: You really changed a lot since I saw you the last time. What you just said sounded so confident!


Toby: Are you sure you're not a doppelganger or anything? Kidding, kidding... glad to be back with you, Setsuko. I really am.
Setsuko: Toby... I'm so glad too.
Toby: Hey, what do you want to do now? I mean, just now?
Setsuko: It's really late, but I could go for some icecream just now.
Toby: Oh, icecream? Some things never change... but I expected a different answer.
Setsuko: Hey, what was that supposed to mean!
Toby: Nothing. Hehe...

Intermission time! I not only received a lot of cool items, but there's also a hefty clear bonus for finishing the stage! Interestingly, the next chapter apparently does not allow me to field any units. Why is that? We will see in a second. But first, there's a bazaar visit to be made!

Kouji: Just chilling around after the mission...
Keiko: Maybe we should buy gifts for our families home!
Kappei: My family is right with me! Forget gifts, I'll look for action figures.
Kouji: Hey, look at that! This operation manual... heh, I was looking for something like that?
Mimsy: Really? What do you need an operation manual for?
Kouji: Just you wait!

Leeg: There you go. That was some good design you've made, and the material was top notch too. All done now!
Kouji: A'right! My TFO is completed!
Kei: You don't mean an LFO, like the Gekkostate, do you?
Kouji: No, it's a TFO, not an LFO! It's not an UFO either!

But it totally looks like an UFO. It repairs, it resupplies, and... other than that, it kinda sucks. Very weak, and can neither dodge nor tank very well. This is not the TFO from SRW MX, which was nigh impossible to hit and had surprisingly strong missiles. In that game, TFO stands for This is F-ing Overpowered. Here, it's just a novelty unit.

But still, secret. Must have.

Next chapter Wait! It's not all!

Our heroes have all gathered and grew in strength and numbers, blah blah blah, and the UN's support allows them to actually act now rather than just live and wait for better times! Their enemy: assorted alien invaders who may or may not be allied with each other, the Federation with its many sub-factions, and Chiram. And last but not the least, the mysterious Black Stranger - Asakim Dowen.


Durandal: I received reports that UN contacted us and offered their support. Captains Bright Noah of Argama and Talia Gladys of Minerva agreed already, without waiting for our decision. What are your opinions, gentlemen?


Wong: I do not object to the support, but this is unforgiveable! Who does Noah think he is, to make such an important decision on his own? The AEUG lacks professionalism that I would expect from such an organisation!


Blex: Calm down, mr Wong. I trust in Bright and his decisions - this is why I have given him the command of Argama. Our situation was bad even after we joined forces with ZAFT. UN's support is a blessing for us.
Durandal: Indeed, I feel the same way. Let us conclude this meeting.

Durandal: And now, please enter... Athrun Zala. I was waiting for you.
Athrun: Yes, Chairman? Is there something you wanted from me?
Durandal: I am happy that you decided to rejoin ZAFT after all. There is only one thing I ask for - there is an old friend that needs your assistance. A friend of yours, not mine.

And, in a different place whatsoever:


Sandman: We have company.
The Maids: Master Sandman?
Kukki: Please, stand aside!
Sandman: It is alright. This is a friend.
Gen Fudou: Nice place you have there, Sandman.
Sandman: Indeed. This interior is nothing compared to my castle, but I am glad you like it. We are honored to have DEAVA's leader finally visit us.
Gen Fudou: Arrows, my friend. One arrow is possible to be broken, but not three if they work in unison.
Sandman: There is only two of us, though.
Gen Fudou: Let's look for the third, then.


Yoland: Woah, I have a line in this chapter!
Vino: Don't break the fourth wall, that's the Xabungle folks' job... crap, I just did it too.
Toshiya: Don't worry, it gets infectious at times.
Yoland: Everyone's busy talking with each other offscreen, but we are the ones who have to service all the robots!
Vino: At least we don't miss anything important, right?

Wrong!


Bright: Our groups are temporarily seperating. There are two theaters of operations that need our urgent attention. If the Glory Stars are still with us, lend your assistance in one of them.
Toby: Feel like going sightseeing, Setsuko? The choice is yours!
Setsuko: Of course we are with you. Let's see now... should I:

1. Go south, join the Pacific division to secure an anti-Federation front Durandal asked for?
OR
2. Go west, join the Gallia division and help the stranded Siberian Exodus?

Next chapter: You decide!

===========

So yeah, we have a route split now! We can choose either Pacific or Gallia - and it is your decision to choose where to go next! The split is four missions long, and let me assure you: both routes are really fun, and I am okay with following any of them. But no, I won't do both routes, choose one. Here are some details to help you make the decision:

Like I just said, both routes are fun. Each chapter has either something funny or something awesome happening. In general, the Pacific route has more new stuff while the Gallia one has more cool stuff from before making a reappearance. Also, Gallia has more hilarious hijinks while Pacific has more opportunities for hardcore trollan'.

If you're interested in who goes where, Pacific is mostly about Zeta Gundam and SEED Destiny, while Gallia is about King Gainer and Turn A. A complete list, with spoilers in white:

Pacific
Zeta Gundam
Gundam SEED Destiny
Godsigma
Gravion
Gundam X
Eureka Seven
Baldios
Grendizer (Grendizer)
Spoilers end here

Gallia
King Gainer
Xabungle
Turn A Gundam
Zambot 3
Orguss
Grendizer (well, Kouji and Maria technically)
Big O
Aquarion
Spoilers end here

Setsuko and Toby go wherever you choose.

As for secrets:

Spoiler

Show

Pacific allows me to unlock Mega Bazooka Launcher, a pretty cool weapon for Hyaku Shiki. I can unlock it normally too, albeit much later than if I did this route.
Pacific also makes it easier to unlock a certain other, later secret - but it's not that hard in the first place.

Gallia allows me to obtain Overman Rush Rod. The one that Yassaba used, although it obviously won't be so strong here. It is still a good unit, maybe not squad leader material but it's pretty damaging and tough thanks to Photon Mat.

Both routes offer something in this department, and that something is pretty good but not crucial. So choose away - you lose nothing!

Make sure to bold whether you vote for Pacific or Gallia in your post. There will be a while to vote, probably until the start of the weekend, maybe more or maybe a bit less.

Oh! Also - we just finished chapter 15 out of 60. That means we're 25% into the game. Congratulations!

EDIT:

The character roster is too big to fit into one post now! I had to cannibalize an unimportant post of mine to split the roster into two parts, in different posts. They're linked so there shouldn't be a probem.

Also:


Astonaige: What the heck? I was totally supposed to be in this chapter. Why didn't Cubey put me in? And why am I breaking the 4th wall? Wrong Tomino series! I'm from Zeta, not Xabungle! That's it, no Zeta Gundam for you, Kamille!

More edits, please ignore the half-crazed engineer:

Fixed this link. For some reason, it originally linked to... Oh dear. I hope I won't get in trouble.